I agree with Freda' statement, "Speaking of cop outs, I think the creation of Israel was a huge cop out by European countries after the second world war. Rather than work to eliminate racism in their countries, to protect people from all backgrounds (as Germany has since tried so hard to do) they sent the problem elsewhere."

I must add, however, that was then and this is now.

Yes, its difficult not to take sides, especially when one side or the other says or does something that harms the people of the Middle East. I am especially alarmed at the response of Stephen Harper (Canadian MP) and George Bush. Where does he get off telling Syria what to do? Wasn't it Bush who wanted Syria out of Lebanon? Now that Lebanon and Palestine have had democratic elections, Bush has decided he doesn't like the results. When is he going to get it that the U.S. and its allies are unwelcome?

What gives Israel the right to bomb a country for the crimes of a few citizens? It was not the government of Lebanon who kidnapped the Israelis. Terrorists are criminals and do not speak for the citizens of Lebanon or any other country. The only result of Israeli aggression will be the creation of more terrorists.

Yes, Freda, it time for some listening. Unfortunately, the U.S., Great Britain, Canada and Israel cannot hear.