President Obama is providing us all with a clear indication of his views on the use of military power, our relationship with Israel, and his weak response to the threat Iran poses by nominating former Senator Chuck Hagel for Secretary of Defense.
Senator Hagel has repeatedly indicated his unwillingness to put military action on the table when dealing with the threat from Iran, which would continue to demonstrate the US position of weakness to the Iranians. Why should they consider the demands of the US and other nations if they already disregard sanctions and continue to move forward with their nuclear program, unless they know the US is prepared to back up talk with action? A nuclear Iran is a grave threat to the entire world and we need a Secretary of Defense who understands the gravity of the situation and is ready to do what is required to defend this country from that threat.
Sen. Hagel may or may not be an anti-semite, but he has demonstrated his disdain for Israel over and over while in Congress, and we cannot afford to further damage the relationship with our one true ally in the Middle East Region. President Obama campaigned on his promise to remain a strong supporter of Israel, and while I did not believe him for a minute based on his actions during his last term, I'm sure many voters bought his message. This nomination has clearly shown where he loyalties actually lie. Unfortunately many pro-Israel organizations, including AIPAC, have decided to remain quiet on this nomination. That means the rest of us need to step up and press Congress to act where the President will not.
Although I disagree with many of the positions he has held, I do believe that Sen. Hagel served his country honorably both in war and in Congress, but that does not mean he is the right man for this job. Those of you who agree should write their Senator and ask that they vote No when asked to confirm Chuck Hagel's nomination for Defense Secretary.
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