On an unrelated note...

There's been this "tension" in the Middle East for decades, centered around Israel and its neighbors, which has recently erupted into all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah -- essentially a political party in Lebanon, which the Western world recognizes as a "terrorist organization." Anyway...

So Israel and Hezbollah are fighting, lofting rockets and air raids at each other's towns and villages. And the big news yesterday was "US and France agree on a resolution to bring peace to the Israel - Hezbollah conflict". My question is this: Isn't it a little more important that ISRAEL and HEZBOLLAH agree on a resolution to bring peace? What do the US and France have to do with it? It seems to be a little ridiculous. Are there really any US interests at stake here? Is Hezbollah going to overrun Israel (not likely) and then come after the big bad US? First of all, Israel has proven time and time again that it can take care of itself. It's got one of the best trained armed forces in the world. Yeah they have a bit of a temper, but wouldn't you after being despised by your neighbors for decades? Let Israel fight Israel's battles. They're more than capable.

Or is this a little bit like everyone paying property taxes to fund public schools, even those who have no children, because an educated populace benefits all? Do we all have to get involved because peace in the Middle East benefits us all? I don't buy the school/property tax arguement, I'm probably not going to buy the Middle East peace is better for all argument. Even if I do work for an oil company.