The discussion in support of the charter is simple: Form a global partnership to care for Earth and mankind, or risk self-destruction and the loss of diversity of life.

CNN: Earth Charter sets course for sustainable living

Israel is concerned that the uprising against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad could lead to chaos and the loss of control - or deliberate dissemination - of weapons of mass destruction, including chemical weapons, Damascus is said to possess.

BBC: Q&A: Israeli 'strike' on Syria