Bibi Netanyahu: Leadership POV 101

This week's speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, "Bibi," was the most fundamental display of resolute geopolitical leadership backed by a point of view (POV) since former President Bush's address to Congress following the September 11th terrorist attacks. It was similar yet different from a speech Bibi gave back in 1996 when passengers could still board airplanes without taking off their shoes. Here are links to both texts:
1.) http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics/wp/2015/03/03/full-text-netanyahus-address-to-congress/
2.) http://www.mfa.gov.il/mfa/mfa-archive/1996/pages/pm%20netanyahu-%20speech%20to%20us%20congress-%20july%2010-%201996.aspx

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu -- courtesy CNN

This is not a political message despite the obvious subject matter. Nor is it a policy statement or endorsement of a candidate for office. Israeli elections are next week, which is why President Obama, observing presidential custom, did not show favor by meeting with the prime minister.

This also is not a shrill rendition of an event reported by either the liberal or Right Wing media. There is no commentary. It's simply a statement of fact-based opinion, and anyone who has watched the speech, will have a difficult time debating the lead statement. Hint: Drop the political indignation and consider events that shaped both the context and purpose behind both the second Netanyahu and Bush speeches.

If you're a leader and have to share POV on a difficult issue calling for action, play the video clip at the link above and take notes. Then call an expert if you're still afraid. Because you should be. Tension sparks creativity. The power, however, is that path can lead to new authentic places -- not endless circular arguments that lead nowhere. To quote Bibi, "the enemy of your enemy is still the enemy." Don't let that enemy be yourself.

# # #