US asking Israel to eliminate China ties in sensitive areas

Commentary + News with a Twist

“Take Concrete Action,” “No more ‘polite’ deflection,” “Sever ties”

The headline in the Jerusalem Post read:

“US asking Israel to eliminate China ties in sensitive areas.”

There’s one word that stands out in that headline: “eliminate.”

Here’s the dictionary definition of “eliminate:”

“Completely remove,” “get rid of,” “terminate.” Interesting, but why, you might ask, am I writing about this? Have I become an amateur lexicographer? No, it’s actually more complex than any new hobby.

First, for those interested, here’s a link to the entire JPost article: https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/israel-requested-indemnity-after-us-requested-cuts-on-trade-with-china-628530?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=US+asking+Israel+to+eliminate+China+ties&utm_campaign=May+19+day

And here are the excerpts that caught my attention:

The Trump administration official said that Israel must be prepared to take concrete action to reduce its ties with China.

“I don’t think polite deflection will cut it anymore,” he stated. “This is a high priority for the US.”

Tie those excerpts to the key word in the headline – “eliminate.”

And tie all of that to this headline from the New York Times on May 17:

Chinese Ambassador Is Found Dead at Home in Israel

The Times went on to report:

Mr. Du’s stint in Israel put him in the middle of an increasingly tense dynamic that is creating friction between Israel and the United States.

Trump administration officials have repeatedly warned Israeli officials that intelligence sharing between the two close allies could be impaired or compromised over investments by China.

Hmm…interesting. Particularly given that Mr. Du’s death came just four days after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s impromptu trip to Israel during which he told the Israelis to reduce their ties to China, as outlined in the JPost article.

(I can’t confirm whether Pompeo’s trip would have come earlier but was delayed because he couldn’t find a State Department staffer to walk his dog).*

(*Please note: that was “News with a Twist.”)

Just to be clear, I’m not one of those conspiracy theorists you might see on Fox News. And, I’ve never, ever listened to Alex Jones. But, here’s the thing: Where’s Inspector Clouseau when you need him?

Just saying!