Paths to Middle East Peace

JEFFREY HOTZ

Arlington

·

Charles Krauthammer's July 28 column, " 'Disproportionate' in What Moral Universe?", omits some germane considerations.

He equated the present situation with World War II, a valid precedent when one nation-state attacks another to destroy it. But Hezbollah is a terrorist organization, not a nation-state.

Israel, on the wrong end of world opinion, is destroying Lebanese infrastructure and killing innocents. Arab sentiment, initially critical of Hezbollah, has reversed because of this collateral damage. Hezbollah leader Hasan Nasrallah is a hero; new recruits will flock to him.

Arab governments originally criticized Hezbollah. Now, they call for an immediate cease-fire because of Israeli overkill.

For what benefit? Israel cannot crush Hezbollah, as we could not crush the Viet Cong. Lebanon's Shiites support Hezbollah fighters, enabling them instantly to become innocent civilians. Israel can degrade Hezbollah's capabilities, but armaments can be replaced, and command and control reestablished.

Full Arab recognition in return for pre-1967 borders, safeguarded by a force including Arab troops, may offer a chance of peace. Absent this or something similar, the cycle will continue. And when a fanatical organization has the capability to make weapons of mass destruction, today will look like a day at the beach.

RAYMOND V. RUSH

Stanardsville, Va.