Does the WH remind Secretary Clinton of Iran (2)?

Ezra Friedlander describes his experience at the White House Hanukkah event, where he was amazed of the attention and sensitivity exhibited towards our religion: "What I did not expect was what the Military Social Aide asked my wife and I, as we were approaching the receiving line: “are you shomer nigiah?” explaining that if so our photo takings would be handshaking with the President and First Lady respectively. To be honest, I did not expect this level of courtesy. This level of detail reflected something very unusual but very positive: that we as Orthodox Jews have not only the right to be fully observant but indeed are obligated to do so."

It's really heartening, and we should all appreciate that gesture. At the same time, we should ask, why some in the administration call for the suppression of these very same rights to our fellow Jews in other countries?

As reported and commented on last week, Secretary of State Clinton criticized the gender-segregation on some public busses in Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods in Israel as some of the things that reminds her of Iran. A strong reason for this separation of the genders is to avoid touching each other. Can someone please explain me why that tradition, that the marines at the WH are trained to accommodate, should not be accommodated on Public Transportation provided in Orthodox neighborhoods and used by Orthodox communities (there are separate routes for those who want to ride mixed).

Madam Secretary: While Mr. Fridlander had the choice to skip this event, the bus commuters in Israel have little choice and can't afford private transportation. Can you please explain why catering to their customs a resemblance of Iran?