I returned to Great Neck this morning after a two month very enjoyable visit home to Israel where I had the privilege and honor to vote in the Jan. 22 elections which re-elected Prime Minister Netanyahu.
In a small country which had 32 political parties on the ballot, I was overjoyed that the candidate for whom I voted earned the admiration of the electorate. In Israel, where freedom of speech and opinion are national priorities, one can express opinions openly, can criticize and be criticized in return.
After going through 413 pieces of mail, 28 newspapers and magazines, and deleting 174 e-mail messages, I found some time to read several back issues of the Great Neck News. I was pleased to see that readers J. Marcus of Great Neck (Jan. 4) and John Nahas of Great Neck (Jan. 11) can also write. Surely they must know that in America one who pays taxes has the right to express an opinion, citizenship not withstanding. When I write about “our” prime minister, it should be obvious that I refer to Israel.
After all, why would America need a prime minister when it has a prime Obama ? This week our Israeli press and television announced the forthcoming visit to Jerusalem of President Barack Obama next month.
In an opinion poll, people were asked their opinion of his presidency.
Seventy-three percent gave him a negative vote. In spite of public opinion, readers may be assured that he will receive a warm and friendly reception upon his arrival.
Quite a different reception from the one he gave Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House.
Dr. Esor Ben-Sorek
Great Neck
