U.S. AWOL

Last week the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution endorsing a cease-fire in Gaza. The content was one-sided, as usual. It did not call on Hamas to halt its rocket attacks against Israeli civilians as a condition for the suspension of Israel's anti-terror offensive.

Despite assurances that it would oppose statements that failed adequately to censure Hamas, the U.S. abstained on the motion. By not exercising its veto, the U.S. allowed the resolution to pass 14-0.

The Nation described the incident as an "almost 180-degree" shift by the Bush administration. The Washington Post noted the reversal. Former U.N. Ambassador John Bolton lamented the American position. The vote otherwise has received scant attention.

The Israeli operation was justified. Blame for the bloodshed falls on Hamas. Actions such as these always generate controversy. In certain respects, Israel cannot win. When it defends itself it invites disproportionate criticism. No matter what Israel does it will be placed in the wrong -- which explains why it needs an ally that is steadfast, not AWOL.