Letter: Let’s support Israel, avoid conflicts

Treating ally Israel as an enemy, instituting sanctions against Russia for allegedly swaying our election and funding terrorist states by our outgoing administration should have every American concerned.

First, our State Department influencing a U.N. Security Council condemnation of Israel's West Bank settlements and demanding a two-state 'solution for peace” could destroy democratic Israel having terrorists as neighbors. Then by abstaining in the U.N. vote we like Pilate of old 'wash our hands” of guilt?

Second, our intelligence agencies disagree as to the nature, source and motives of an unproven hack. Moreover, it is the height of hypocrisy that our government accuse Russia when the U.S. has a history of coups and foreign election interference. Furthermore, some sources state these were not hacks but leaks by an insider. Beyond expected spying by the superpowers, I think the outgoing administration is creating a last-minute crisis designed to divide the Republican Party and shape public opinion while risking another Cold War. Interestingly, amid outcries of embarrassing revelations of the leaks, no one is denying the truth of their content.

Third, paying enemy Iran billions and arming dubious Middle Eastern militias with shoulder mounted missile launchers that threaten airlines inadvertently supports enemies, current and potential.

Let's again support Israel, avoid unnecessary conflicts and make prudent foreign allocations. Let's put the best interests of our country over politics and prejudices. While urging our Congress and new president to create a wise foreign policy, I hope and pray God to forgive and bless America again.

Tim Bickel

Cedar Rapids