We've talked of how passions have run high here in France ever since the Middle East erupted. Every word from politicians gets scrutinised for signs of favouritism. Over in Russia, there's a clear-cut line, with the foreign ministry last week welcoming a Hamas delegation and the Kremlin blaming Israel's Gaza war on US imperialism – a throwback to the days when the Soviets championed the Palestinian cause. But has the messaging been too effective?