'Israel' - tagged features

Angela Merkel this week became the first German Chancellor to address the Israeli Parliament. Merkel's three day visit aimed to upgrade ties between Israel and Germany and was described by both countries as exceptional. Seven German ministers also accompanied the Chancellor for a joint sitting with the Israeli cabinet - a level of consultation Germany usually reserved for a small number of EU states. Paying tribute to the "special relationship" between the two countries Chancellor Merkel said the genocide by the Nazis filled Germans with shame. However, more than sixty years after World War two an address in German in the Israeli parliament remains controversial. 

The conflict in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah, and the humanitarian crisis unfolding there, have caused widespread public consternation in Europe. But governments are divided over what should happen next. The EU is split between those who feel that Israel is largely to blame for the carnage and those that feel the country is quite properly defending itself against terrorism. 

As Israel's military campaign against the Hezbollah in Lebanon continues, the European Union is also increasing its efforts to bring about a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible. Radio Sweden's Azariah Kiros takes a closer look at the conflict - its roots and repercussions. 

... is in top gear. Paris has been careful to adopt a balanced approach, sending ministers both to Lebanon and Israel. And this week the French president outlined a detailed plan for a durable ceasefire. But does the Lebanese community in Paris approve of the French approach? Radio France International's Nick Champeaux takes up the story.