Justified? Yes, smart? That is a different question all together. The possible exception to the justified argument would be the attacking Lebanese targets since their ability to influence Hezbollah is debatable at best. Hamas and Hezbollah however would constitute legitimate targets since by attacking and taking prisoners they committed an act of war against Israel.

I think the US is viewed as a sponsor of Israel throughout the Arab world; and due to our ridiculous policy towards them I can understand why.