U.S., others boycotting, Iran starring, at U.N. racism meeting

Well, just because the US wasn't attending I could still see it going forward and support the meeting somewhat, but if Iran is 'starring' that makes the whole thing a little less credible, I will admit.

I still think it's a little contradictory to want complete openness (which I agree with) to free speech, and at the same time not attend if there's language that singles out Israel in certain instances. It sounds a little like they want free speech only if it doesn't go against what they want. I'm not saying I think Iran's language, as well as some other Muslim nations, towards Israel is correct, and it's certainly bias, but that's also part of free speech to be discussed.

UN meets begin to show its divisions in UN. There is now 2 blocks happening as a consequence of this meet, the Group of 7 rich nations including US,Israel,Canada,Australia,Germany,Canada,Italy and other block(rest of world 214 nations).

Group of 7 richer nations,should just attend for bridging unity among with all 221 nations that represent UN, not matter what is talked about.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully just confirmed that New Zealand will be boycotting the conference as well.

Well smith I'm sure you can see the danger of having a worldwide conference on racism that deals with "Israel and everyone else." The Arabs/Persians have their opinions about Israel, but turning the conference into their own political tool for the specific purpose of attacking Israel runs counter the intent/spirit of the conference overall, in my opinion. Preventing that from happening is somehow being presented as a curb on free speech which is absurd. It's more like curbing hate speech.

By boycotting this event, the governments of the U.S., Netherlands, Germany, Australia, Canada, and Italy are only further exposing themselves as puppets of a foreign power.

“folks expressed antagonism toward Israel in ways that were often times completely hypocritical and counterproductive.”

No, what is completely hypocritical and counterproductive is to ignore that Israel is in fact extremely racist and intolerant

Good to see New Zealand, Australia and Canada following the US lead on this one.

but if Iran is 'starring' that makes the whole thing a little less credible, I will admit.

A little less? Really going out on a limb there, smith.

Israel is in fact extremely racist and intolerant

There's a mosque in the Israeli Knesset for Muslim government officials. Do you suppose Muslim Arab nations have any "Infidel" Jews represented in government, or even allowed in their country for that matter? We know who the real racists are here sabi, but keep trying.

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad—who repeatedly has called for the destruction of Israel and denied the Holocaust—is slated to speak on the first day.

Ahmadinejad has never called for the destruction of Israel, for an article to include this comment reflects the author’s bias. The bias is also exposed by how Ahmadinejad’s opinion of the Holocaust is described. In reality, he does not deny it, he simply questions it, pointing out that a serious unbiased investigation has never been done. He also wonders why in many countries, questioning the Holocaust brings a heavy prison sentence. His main point however is that he asks why the Palestinians have to pay for the Holocaust. Nobody can give him a good answer, they just repeat the usual “wipe Israel off the map” lie.

Funny how they do not want to “give legitimacy to what they fear could become an anti-Semitic gathering” when the criticism is directed at Israel, not Jews. At the same time, a “sticking point” is that Muslims want a ban against criticism of their religion. So, it seems, the boycotters want to have the right to criticize Muslims but they do not want any criticism of Jews.

How can these guys write such an article with a straight face?

Helter, you should read up on what is happening in Iran, it ain't like you think!

HS: Agreed, this thread shows why its being boycotted. People these days just simply feel that the only problem in the world where different kinds of people are at odds is limited to Israel and the Muslims..

Noticed there has yet to be any dialog on what the Arabs are doing in Sudan? Or what Mugabe is doing in Zimbabwe?

I think since Israel is for the most part considered white, its ok to gang up on them, which is one of the main reasons they react the way they do.

I just laugh watching conspiracy enthusiasts insist that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who invited David Duke to Iran, is a misunderstood figure on the world stage.

why is it that the Arab nations feel that it is there job to criticize Israel when they also hold half the responsibility for the plight of the Palestinians?

I just laugh watching conspiracy enthusiasts insist that Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who invited David Duke to Iran, is a misunderstood figure on the world stage.

Everyone was invited to attend the conference. Duke accepted and presented something (about free speech?). That conference was the only holocaust conference where both sides (revisionists and exterminists) were invited to discuss their side. The revisionists have never been given the opportunity to defend their views publicly in the West.

That conference was the only holocaust conference where both sides (revisionists and exterminists) were invited to discuss their side."

Ok, on that note, I agree with you. Unlike many here, I'd prefer to let a person speak even if I disagree. However, would anyone be allowed in Iran to make a counter argument in Israel's favor? I wouldn't say that Iran is open to free speech.

also, you do understand that you arguments against Israel are only working against you - don't you?

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who invited David Duke to Iran

That's correct. Ahamdinejad invites world-renown racist David Duke to be a keynote speaker at his Holocaust-denial meeting in Iran. And now the UN invites Ahmadinejad to be a keynote speaker at the UN racism conference. The mind reels.

Noticed there has yet to be any dialog on what the Arabs are doing in Sudan?

Yup. There's an active genocide of Black Christians by Muslim Arabs in the Sudan. It's estimated over 250 thousand have been murdered. I doubt it's even on the UN racism conference agenda.

Helter, you should read up on what is happening in Iran

The only thing I want to read about Iran is that its nuclear facilities have been leveled.

also, you do understand that you arguments against Israel are only working against you - don't you?

Could you elaborate? Are you saying Israel is not racist and intolerant?

Are you saying Israel is not racist and intolerant?" Having been to a few places in the Mid-East, I can say I ain't never had a problem in Israel, and I look more Arab than I do Jew, where I have in several Muslim countries.

I wouldn't call them racists, in fact, I'd say that place was quite multi-ethnic. Ever lay your eyes on an Israeli of Moroccan decent?

As for intolerant, sorry, but I believe the Muslim countries have them beat, there is not denying that. I can agree that Israel goes overboard on their responses, however, who am I to say they shouldn't be afraid. Even your arguments, that Israel shouldn't be there and let's say you are 100% right, for the generations to just get up and move out is beyond crazy, which is what you and many want. Let's say if they allow a Muslim to lead the country, which is what is desired, can you say the jews would be free? For such a tiny place.

That conference was the only holocaust conference where both sides...blah blah blah

Holocaust revisionists are either neo-Nazis or Islamists, but I repeat myself. Sabi, for the record, which are you?

Even your arguments, that Israel shouldn't be there and let's say you are 100% right, for the generations to just get up and move out is beyond crazy, which is what you and many want. Let's say if they allow a Muslim to lead the country, which is what is desired, can you say the jews would be free? For such a tiny place.

Muslims, Christians, and Jews lived in relative peace for a very long time in Palestine. That is, until many non-Jews were attacked, murdered, and kicked off their land. It is indeed beyond crazy to expect millions of Palestinians to suddenly get up and move out, but that is exactly what has happened for Israel to exist. Their killing has never stopped because they want even more Palestinian land, which is also beyond crazy but they manage to get much support by Western puppets.

Why would you think that a Muslim leader would be worse than a zionist one?

Are you saying Israel is not racist and intolerant?

In Israel, Muslims are free to openly pray in the streets. In Muslim Arab nations, Jews aren't even allowed. In Israel, gays can get married. In Muslim Arab countries, gays are killed. Do you really want to go down this road sabi?

Holocaust revisionists are either neo-Nazis or Islamists, but I repeat myself. Sabi, for the record, which are you?

Neither. I am simply one who refuses to believe something that is scientifically impossible, especially if there is NO strong evidence. The fact that it is a legally protected thought does not make it any more true.

Moderator: Readers, the Holocaust is not relevant to this discussion.

I support Obama, but I feel disappointed with the US administration on this subject. I think this jewish problem should be talked, even if in heavy, hot exchanges between the 4 sides: those who are pro-israeli, those against, the neutrals, and those in-between. Such a tiny country that causes so many problems to the world since its inceptions must be talked about. So we can find a more peaceful future. Let Israel live, but in peace with the rest of the world.

Perhaps they didn't want the conference to turn into Israel vs. the Arabs, just like this thread.

Another conference will solve everything.....

I think this jewish problem should be talked, even if in heavy, hot exchanges between the 4 sides: those who are pro-israeli, those against, the neutrals, and those in-between.

I would say that more than anything I am pro-civilization.

So I guess that makes me a 'Zionist' and an 'Islamophobe.'

I think this jewish problem should be talked, even if in heavy, hot exchanges between the 4 sides

The thing is, it is not a "Jewish problem". The problem is Israel, not Jews. Many Jews also oppose Israel, many (e.g., Naturei Karta) are against the existence of the state of Israel.

Sabiwabi, I wrote Jewish meaning not only Israel - but the culture and religion as well. After all, Jews in US and Europe are powerfull lobbbyists, even if they don´t physically live in Israel.

LostinNagoya, I understand what your saying. I agree many of them are Jewish (or call themselves Jewish). However, they do not represent Judaism, they only hide behind the religion to try to give Zionism some legitimacy.

Notice how in the following sentence, they try to make Zionism sound legit:

That document was agreed after the United States and Israel walked out over attempts to liken Zionism—the movement to establish a Jewish state in the Holy Land—to racism.

Try to imagine any other group kicking out the inhabitants of a land to establish a Muslim state, a Buddist state, a white state, a black state, ....

Zionism is a racist ideology. Israel deserves all the criticism it is getting, and more. And this has nothing to do with anti-Semitism.

This is all a bunch of BS! The USA should at least send a token delegation. This is not a bloody Muslim vs. Jew thing, how many Hindus hate Muslims? How many Protestants hate Catholics? There are racist people in every nationality and religion. How do we begin to change old idiotic attitudes? Respecting others and holding dialogs like Obama and Chavez are doing now.

smithinjapan at 09:43 AM JST - 20th April “Well, just because the US wasn't attending I could still see it going forward and support the meeting somewhat, but if Iran is 'starring' that makes the whole thing a little less credible, I will admit.”

Did you re-read this before pressing the submit button? The voice of all wisdom has spoken……….

I do love the way that wabisabi never answers questions.

Sabi, answer this, why are there no synagogues in Saudi Arabia, but there are Mosques in Israel? Why are Jews forbidden to enter so many Muslim countries while Muslims are allowed to enter Israel?

One of the most outrageously arrogant ideas to be put forward at this conference is to have free speech curtailed against Islam. Islam is a backward & savage religion that needs to be controlled if not actually banned. Yet it now wants legal protection so that nobody will be able to point a finger at it.

Israel is not the problem in the Middle East, intolerant Islam is.

elbudamexicano: How many countries thrived on slavery like the USA??

There's no need to bring up the current relationship the US has with Mexico. And quite frankly, I think real Mexicans would be offended that you're referring to your own people as slaves.

Germany, Australia, Canada, Italy, the Netherlands, New Zealand... A whole bunch of first-world countries aren't goin' to this thing.

Why are posters focussin' on the US and Israel? ADS?

As of this time, the UK says it's still goin' but with reservations about the whole thing.

Boycotting the conference is childish. The US, Australia, Canada and others are under no compulsion to sign off on any statement produced in the meeting. It is the perfect forum for voicing opposition to a statement which they fear to be racist.

Israel is not the problem in the Middle East and neither is intolerant Islam. They are both problems and they are not the only problems.

Childish?

These governments may feel attending this 'conference' will give legitimacy where legitimacy is not due. They may be concerned that's it's goin' to turn into somethin' which may look like they gave approval of just by their presence.

Britain and others have now walked out of the conference.

Maybe they should have followed the lead of other nations who figured how this was gonna turn out.

Still childish?

skipthesong: "However, would anyone be allowed in Iran to make a counter argument in Israel's favor? I wouldn't say that Iran is open to free speech."

Good question. The only certainty is that if they don't attend they certainly won't be able to.

grafton: "The voice of all wisdom has spoken"

Well, thank you!

"One of the most outrageously arrogant ideas to be put forward at this conference is to have free speech curtailed against Islam. Islam is a backward & savage religion that needs to be controlled if not actually banned. Yet it now wants legal protection so that nobody will be able to point a finger at it."

I actually agree with you. But again, look at your language, 'Islam is a backward & savage religion that needs to be controlled if not actually banned', and yet so many on here say that they agree with not allowing harsh language against Israel. I say you should have both, if you truly want free speech. SuperLib pointed out that it would end up being nothing but 'hate speech', and in part I agree, but the things other people are saying about Islam carry just as much hatred and spite in them as anything else, and it's pretty clear that you think curtailing that is wrong.

"Israel is not the problem in the Middle East, intolerant Islam is."

God some of you guys are so obtuse and one-sided! There isn't ONE problem in the ME, my friend, so saying Islam is THE problem is far too simple and incorrect. Those radical Islamists who do not tolerate anything beyond their strict interpretations of the Quran and demand they dictate law are most certainly a problem, but there are many facets to Israel that are problematic as well. It's not any single problem, my friend.

Anyway, I agree with half of what you said.

Boycotting the conference is childish.

Believing this conference is about solving racism is childish. Today every EU nation walked out of the conference. They should reimburse the tax payers for their travel expenses for being foolish enough to attend the conference in the first place.

USARonin at 10:36 PM JST - 20th April

“mi amiga.” ?

I think that you will find that elbudamexicano is male, so you might owe him an apology. By the way, I know that this might sound like nit picking, but would you mind putting Gs at the end of words that should have Gs at their end. Sometimes reading your posts gets difficult & the whole point to these posts is to communicate, isn’t it?

Mr.Smith, half a thank you for half an agreement.

I know what you mean when you talk about only the extremist Muslims being the real problem & yes you are making sense as far as it goes. But you can’t deny that whenever the extremist do something extreme, as is their way, the so called moderates at best only ever make excuses for them, they come from broken homes, their fathers beat them (sorry wrong thread), the imperialists were bad to their great grand fathers, nasty Europeans stole all their sand & women,( or should that be oil?) whatever, you know perfectly well how it always goes, any excuse will do but the moderates never come all out against what they see as their own people. Like you I would once have defended the good Muslims, but after listening to years of their excuses after people have been murdered I drew a line in the sand. Until Muslims get up & defend civilisation along side the rest of us I will group them with the rest of their inane religion, as barbaric murderers.

Still childish? Yes.

Attending the conference is the way to change how it "turns out".

Not one of the 50-odd members of the Islamic Conference will ratify the UN 's Declaration of Human Rights.

Why should we listen to them talk about 'racism' ?

Because their non-ratification does not disqualify them from having opinions about racism nor does it relieve us of the responsibility of trying to understand them.