U.S. should denounce Israel’s attack on ships

The recent Gaza attack is disturbing. There has been much hatred of Jews and Israel over the years. Hamas and some Muslims are dedicated to the destruction of Israel. The United States is right to maintain strong relations with this important ally.

But, even as a parent loves a child, there are times when disappointment must be communicated. We must continue to love and care for Israel.

However, we must be emphatic in conveying that behavior like this with the relief ships cannot be tolerated.

Let's bring home our ambassador for a symbolic nine days. The messages must be clear to the entire world: We are committed to peace and humane treatment of Palestinians and Israelis. We do not tolerate acts of violence even when one side believes they are justified.

Israel has legitimate reason to fear smuggling of weapons into Palestine. International agents from the United Nations or a neutral country could meet relief ships and transport legitimate aid/supplies to Gaza.

The tension and trampled hopes of Palestinians and Israelis feed the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as terrorist threats. We must lead the way in demonstrating firm commitment to the hopes of both peoples, and in denouncing acts of violence against those hopes.

Roger Johanson

Lisbon