Israel is guided by an astral calculus that is not always perceptible. This explains why we sometimes stubbornly refuse to recognize the rational calculations of diplomatic cost and benefit – calculations politely impressed on us by well-meaning allies.

Abbas would be better off not threatening us with his own demise. Israel can manage without him and his Palestinian “authority.”

By ignoring Israel’s concessions for peace while treating the Palestinians like a spoiled child, the world is pushing off the chances for peace.

Here is a potpourri of punditry on Israel’s demand for recognition as the Jewish state, Obama’s mistakes, Islamic radicalism, the settlement freeze, Israel’s monopolies, and the fight for Jerusalem.