the Israelis are indeed a cut above.

- Israel has free and open elections. Name the other Middle Eastern countries that do this.

- Israel has a sound court system and the rule of law. They don't engage in summary executions like is so common in other Middle Eastern nations, especially the Palestinean Authority.

- A significant percentage of Israeli voters are of Arab descent. Name the other Middle Eastern countries where ethnic and religious minorities have the right to vote.

- While Israel is a Jewish state, you can freely practice other religions there. Name the other Middle Eastern nations where religious freedom exists.

I personally think that so many Europeans don't like Israel in part because of latent antisemitism as well as the fact that the Israelis actively protect themselves rather than appeasing and surrendering to the aggressors. From the hour of its founding, Israel has been attacked many times by her neighboring states. With a fraction of the population and resources of those aligned against it, Israel has prevailed every time. They also have the strongest economy in the region, too.

So, yes, I don't have a problem with Israel having WMD. From all accounts, they've had them for decades. To date, they've never used them against anyone.