Israel v. Lebanon, week-ending edition

Read today's news here.

Not much more to report. The Israeli request for "evacuation" of southern Lebanon continues, as Israel's ground forces begin the invasion. They have also called up their reserves - a sure sign that invasion is imminent.

Lebanon, right now, is in a difficult position. Does it protect its people from Hezbollah, potentially angering Syria and any Hezbollah sympathizers already in-country, inviting more attacks, but from those forces instead of Israel, or another potential occupation by Syria? Or does it fight against the Israeli invasion, as Israel has already shown complete disregard for the lives of Lebanese non-combatant citizens?

Members of Lebanon's government - specifically their Minister for Social Affairs, Nayla Moawad - believe that the Syrian government has spurred Hezbollah to action to intentionally destabilize Lebanon, leaving it ripe for a re-occupation.

They're going to have to learn how to play nice with each other out there. The warmongering, shoot-first mentality of the Bush administration is not providing a good role model. No idea when Condi is going out there, but Tony Snow is still spouting the party line: We won't tell Israel to stop, but they should "exercise restraint." Good comment, Tony, saying this as Israel promises to show no restraint.

-R.

As a side note, the Lebanese family in my building returned, safe and sound, Wednesday evening. Welcome home!