Israel Overreacts In Lebanon

I have always been a supporter of Israel and its right to exist and prosper, but in recent years I have been dismayed by some Israeli actions. When they bulldozed the homes of innocent civilians, they were simply wrong. This just made them look like bullies. It did nothing to help ensure their security or bring the end of mideast violence closer to reality. Now they have really gone off the deep end.

In response to attacks by Hezbollah, they have virtually declared war on all of Lebanon. They have struck 150 targets and killed at least 93 people. Less than two dozen of the targets were Hezbollah related. 91 of the people killed were innocent civilians. They have attacked the Beirut airport, and bombed roads and bridges all over Lebanon, not just in the southern sector occupied by Hezbollah. They have also bombed border checkpoints between Lebanon and Syria.

Why are they doing this? If their problems could be settled militarily, it would have been done years ago. These actions are certainly not going to make the people of Lebanon believe Israel can be a good neighbor. The Israeli actions are far more likely to make Hezbollah look heroic to the Lebanese populace. Israel was very unhappy when Hamas was elected to lead Palestine. The current military action against Lebanon could put Hezbollah in a position to take over leadership of the Lebanese government.

I do not mean to imply that Israel should not have replied to Hezbollah's attack. They have the right and obligation to defend themselves. However, killing innocent civilians and attacking parts of Lebanon not controlled by Hezbollah have nothing to do with defending themselves. These are the actions of a bully.

Nations, just like people, must be judged by their actions [both verbal and nonverbal]. No one can look into your heart or mind to understand your motivations. If you act like a bully, then you are a bully. Right now, Israel is acting like a bully.