Smith says American academicians and journalists often cite a list of root causes for Middle East turmoil, in which the U.S., the West and Israel usually play a big part: a history of colonialism and economic exploitation, the creation of Israel and American support for the Jewish state, the politics of oil, Western backing of repressive Arab regimes and the U.S.military presence in the region.

VOA: standard.2010.03.18

At a meeting earlier, he warned the current term would be "one of the most challenging in the history of the state of Israel" but pointed out that the defence, interior and foreign ministries remained in their hands.

BBC: Israel's cabinet for change - if it lasts

Haifa could face the same sanction if it does not commit to "upholding academic freedom, and in particular ceases its victimisation of academic staff and students who seek to research and discuss the history of the founding of the state of Israel".

BBC: NEWS | UK | Education | Academics vote on Israel boycott

Please take a look at the history of Arab aggression against Israel, both at the state level and through guerrilla actions.

BBC: You are in: Talking Point