To me the biggest disgrace is that a President of Israel even attends a conference like this and an Israeli political process whereby a sitting Prime Minister could not prevent Rivlin’s appointment.

Isi, I have come to the conclusion that all our preachings as to what should be done seem to fall on deaf ears. No one in a position to be able to do something is really listening. They all have their own political agenda and too bad if their policies are leading the nation to suicide.

You say: “Rivlin MUST eschew politics”, “He MUST resist this or that”, “He MUST restrict himself”, he MUST “remain above politics”, He MUST “never engage in this or that”, etc. etc. etc. ad nauseum. You might just as well be shouting your advice in a sound proof room.

Finally as a last quote which seems to convey it all about a country that has lost the will and resolve to do anything effective these days: “As president, Rivlin should avoid contributing further to the already dysfunctional Israeli political arena.”
This says it all for those who listen. Unfortunately those who need to listen and absorb the message will apparently not do so. They have no concept of Hasbara, never speak up or act with strength against all onslaughts political or otherwise.

Alas, Israel is a political basket case of a country. We all look for leadership but there is none.