Clinton calls Israeli actions "illegitimate"

Many countries of the United Nations (U.N.) are no friend to Israel; but for more than 60 years, the United States has given its unwavering support - until now.

The Palestinian Authority is pushing the U.N. General Assembly to pass a resolution condemning Israel's right to build settlements. Of course, we would expect the United States to speak out in support of our historic friend and most crucial ally in the Middle East. But no.

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is saying that the official position of the United States and the Obama Administration is that the Israeli settlements being targeted by the Palestinian Authority at the U.N. are ''illegitimate.''

This is America turning its back on its strongest ally in the Middle East in the midst of the most dramatic turmoil we have seen in the region in decades.

We need Israel to stand solidly as a bulwark of freedom and democratic values in the Middle East, especially in the face of a regime change in Egypt, chaos in Libya, Iranian warships trolling the waters, and growing turmoil in nation after nation throughout the region.

Israel is our friend - our staunchest ally. In this critical hour, the United States and President Obama should be SUPPORTING Israel, not criticizing and undermining our one most valuable partner in democracy.