Reply #27: related article: Spy blunder? [View All]

[UpInArms]

http://www.cnn.com/2004/US/07/16/spy.blunder/

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- It started with two Israelis convicted of trying illegally to obtain a New Zealand passport -- a valuable commodity in the world of international spy craft that can open up doors often closed to Israeli passport holders.

<snip>

The Israelis, Urie Kelman and Eli Cara, are now serving six month jail terms in New Zealand -- after pleading guilty of trying to assume the identity of a wheelchair-bound New Zealander who has cerebral palsy.

It's a classic spy technique -- assume the identity of someone you know can't travel.

<snip>

Prime Minister Clark has strongly condemned the vandalism at the cemetery, which authorities believe is the result of anger towards Israel. She also wants a formal apology from the Israeli government.

So far, that has not been forthcoming.

"Israel is very sorry about the decision that was taken by the government of New Zealand, but we believe that if we will work one with each other, as we used to work in the past, we will overcome the last difficulties," says Israeli Foreign Minister Silvan Shalom.

...more...

Wow! What an effective (NOT!) non-apology! Paraphrasing: I'm sorry about what you did? Huh?