This is misconception that is being repeated over and over. They ARE going after Google. It's very clear.

It's also silly to think that HTC is in this alone. If HTC loses, Google loses. They'll throw whatever money/support they need to to back up HTC.

I quite doubt Apple's going to attack Google directly. Their weird App Store rejections and now the HTC lawsuit (read, not Google) indicate that Apple prefers a passive-aggressive stance.

If Apple sues Google, Google will stop paying Apple for Safari search ad revenue and make iPhone users hate Apple by blocking Maps and YouTube and breaking iPhone Mail's Gmail button. I'm sure Apple wouldn't want that.