A week into the renewed violence between Israel and Lebanon triggered by the kidnapping of two Israeli soldiers, 56% of Americans say that Lebanon-based terrorist group Hezbollah is to blame for the conflict. Just 18% place the blame on the government of Lebanon and 12% say Israel. Men and Republicans are more likely than women and Democrats to blame Hezbollah.

Our survey was conducted Monday and Tuesday, July 17 and 18. The question wording did not identify Hezbollah in any way. Respondents were simply asked about “the government of Israel, the government of Lebanon, or Hezbollah.” (See question wording and crosstabs).

A plurality of 46% say protecting Israel's right to exist is more important than securing an immediate ceasefire. Again, men (55%) and Republicans (62%) are more likely than women (37%) and Democrats (36%) to say protecting Israel should be the priority.

Americans are paying steady attention to the story, with 81% following it either somewhat or very closely.

Except for statements of broad support of Israel, plus a few words of caution, the Bush Administration has been taking a hands-off approach so far, although Secretary of State Rice reportedly may travel to the region at some point to try to help resolve it.

In any case, most Americans suspect things may get worse before they get better. With Iran and Syria often being cited as enablers of Hezbollah, 82% are at least somewhat concerned that the conflict may soon include fighting between Israel and Iran, and other countries. Fifty-three percent (53%) are "very" concerned about the prospect.

Decades of Middle Eastern violence have left Americans divided as to whether peace is even possible in that region.

Forty-one percent (41%) say it is possible for Israelis and Palestinians to eventually live side by side in peace; 38% say No to that proposition. Many more Democrats (51%) than Republicans (32%) say such peaceful coexistence is possible. Almost twice as many Republicans as Democrats say No, it's not.

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