How has the international community reacted to Israels actions?
There is, of course, the usual anti-Israel activity: introduction of UN resolutions critical of Israel, charges by countries such as France, Spain, Ireland, Sweden and Norway focusing on Israeli “overreaction.” In a circumstance where the case is overwhelmingly in Israel’s favor, this reflexive anti-Israel sentiment is troubling. Still taking into account the usual response to such situations, the mildness of the criticism in some circles has been striking. There has been a focus on the threat of Hezbollah and Hamas from international leaders and there even been support for Israel beyond the United States, as seen in positions and statements by Canada, Great Britain, Australia and Germany among others. Even more significant are comments from some Arab states and the Lebanese government. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan and Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, while making sure to condemn Israel, have made clear that Hezbollah and Hamas by their aggressive actions take on a heavy b