When I was in Hebrew School many years ago, I remember a spirited discussion in class about whether we should consider ourselves American Jews or Jewish Americans.  I remember that someone asked the teacher – who’s side would you take if Israel and the United States were ever to become enemies.  The teacher looked at the student as if he had 3 heads – America and Israel will always be friends, he stated – we have far too many common interests: culturally, militarily and politically.

Fast forward to 2010.  Take a look at these videos, which illustrate far more eloquently than I can opine about the decline in official U.S. support for Israel:

First, we have vice-President Biden delivering his message:

[mc src=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x10wc0gR1tA” type=”youtube”]Biden Scolds Israeli Government[/mc]

Next we have the President’s top political adviser, David Axelrod, himself a Jew, roundly criticizing the Jewish State, presidential spokesman Robert Gibbs adding his criticism and a report that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has joined in the condemnation as well.  This report is from the Al Jazeera network:

[mc src=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7iKNtKalyk” type=”youtube”]Al Jazeera video showing David Axelrod & Robt. Gibbs scolding Israel[/mc]

Finally, we have another take on the controversy: Senators John McCain and Joe Lieberman reacting angrily to this seeming about face in U.S.  policy.  Interestingly, Lieberman points out that the building permits at issue were issued as part of a lengthy process and that the buildings at issue might not see the light of day for several years, if ever.

[mc src=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtqOLPH1VU8″ type=”youtube”]McCain & Lieberman defend Israel on floor of U.S. Senate[/mc]