Lebanon used to have a large Christian presence. I'm not sure if it still does or not. I believe that it does.
Lebanon was neutered by Syria for a long time and I don't believe it has significant military forces to this day. The government is not anti-Israel. It's the Hamassholes and Hizballahmites that are the problem. Syria's presence, what there is of it these days, if any, would also be problematic.
Syria provides arms to these terrorists. It's Syria and these groups that should be the focus, not Beirut or the Lebanese government.
Israel has used restraint in the past, but I'm thinking turning the Gaza Strip over to the Palestinians and their Hamas leadership, was a test period. When that gesture did not bear a large peace dividend, I think Israel faced the fact that it would have to destroy it's enemies so badly that they would beg for peace.
To that end, I hope Israel kicks ass big-time. Let it be known that Israel is willing to live side by side with Arabs in peace, but it will not expose it's people to death and dismemberment without reacting unmercifly.
Israel, I've said it before. You've got a green light from me. Go for it...
Those who take Israel to task, you should have known better. Gain knowledge from this. Otherwise condemn another two generations to financial failure or utter destruction.
35% to 40% of the Lebanese population inside Lebanon is Christian. If you add the Lebanese people in Diaspora the Christians will then constitute over 60% of all Lebanese people.
Oh, I agree that Iran and Syria are pulling the strings. I was just going by what the Israeli government was saying in regards to Lebanon harboring terrorists. It may not itself be anti-Israel, but it does tolerate those who are violently anti-Israel. I think I heard that Lebanon is about 30-40% Christian which is down from what it used to be, but still a good chunk of the population.
Bump! Totally agreed on all counts.