What incredibly sad about the entire crisis in the Middle East is that it is one that the American government could put a stop to, as least as far as Israel attacking with disproportionate force is concerned, relatively easily.  Israel is wholly dependent upon America, and it would deal a lot more credibility to the US if Bush became serious about stopping Israeli attacks while also working with Lebanon to stop Hezbollah's militant wing.

Be nice to America. Or we'll bring democracy to your country.