Could the President of the United States have chosen a slower time than the week of July 4th to meet Benjamin Netanyahu?

Well the two met and spent a little time with the press. By all accounts everyone behaved themselves. The President was a gracious host and the First Lady entertained Mrs. Netanyahu.

News sources agree that Obama wanted Netanyahu to agree to extend the settlement freeze. Netanyahu refused. So they settled on agreeing that Israel and the Palestinian Authority should hold face to face talks as soon as possible.

In a brief press appearance, President Obama looked ill at ease: Like he didn't get what he wanted. Prime Minister Netanyahu looked at ease and comfortable enough to invite Obama to Israel.

This was clearly a make up meeting. Obama succeeded on putting a happy face on the Israel-United States relationship. We hope it is a true impression but we know that impressions can be deceptive.