Repressed Freedom

Comedian, Bill Maher, folks, is an interesting fellow. He's funny and, yes, extremely insightful as well. And while his political views can sometimes be a tad extreme from time to time, it's evident to all who listen that he does put a lot of thought into them.......................................................So, clearly, I was quite disappointed in a recent interview (it must have been on Larry King) when he said that, because Jews still reside in Iran, it really can't be ALL that bad of a place, after-all. He certainly seemed impressed by the fact that there are upwards of 11,000 of them..................................................................Of course, what Mr. Maher forgets to mention here is that, while, yes, Judaism still exists in Iran, the Jewish people themselves are treated quite miserably. This, I'm saying, in that those who do remain (tens of thousands fled after 1979's Islamic Revolution) are always viewed with suspicion, under constant surveillance, not allowed to teach a Jewish curriculum in their schools, or even have a rabbi. In addition, Jews are generally not allowed to travel abroad and emigration is never allowed. Worst of all, is the fact that at least 17 Iranian Jews have been executed - virtually all of them on religious grounds....................................................................Now, look, I'm not saying that we can't or shouldn't negotiate with Iran (or at least certain elements within it). I certainly don't think that we should be going around glibly singing (as Senator McCain did) "bomb bomb bomb bomb bomb Iran". I'm just saying that we shouldn't go into these negotiations thinking that we're dealing with necessarily reasonable individuals here. I mean, seriously, YOU try being a Jew in that country, Mr. Maher. I dare you.