Middle East Non Grata

After three days of intense, sometimes emotional debate, the time had come to vote. Normally, delegates in the U.N. General Assembly cast their ballots electronically, pushing buttons at their desks and watching the results -- green for yes, red for no -- wink up instantly on two display boards overlooking the hall. This time, 18 Arab countries insisted on a voice vote as well. By a draw of lots, Britain went first, and abstained. Next came Uruguay, with a decisive si. Soon there was a oui and a da, then the Arabic assent na'am. As the U.N.'s six official languages rang...