Nicholas D. Kristof's op-ed in the Sunday, June 22, 2008 edition of the New York Times, "The Two Israels," was high on imagery and low on facts.

In Oslo in 1993, the Palestinians were asked to do three things: end the terror, dismantle terrorist organizations, and end incitement. They have done none of these things.  Today, fifteen years later, Hamas flourishes and towns like Sderot and Ashkelon experience daily the trauma of civilian-focused terrorist attacks. In towns like Hebron – a city of immense religious and historic importance to the Jews – the Israeli population must have the right to live in peace.

As for Israeli checkpoints preventing Palestinians from receiving medical care in Israel, Kristof should check the facts.  Thousands of Palestinians have been and are being treated in Israeli hospitals.  But, in the past, suicide bombers have included pregnant women and women in need of medical care. Terrorism is any everyday occurrence in Israel. Vigilance is key.  Checkpoints remain critical.

The Palestinian extremists have forced Israel's hand.  As long as a large and vocal portion of Palestinian society refuses to acknowledge, accept, and respect the existence of the State of Israel and continues to do everything in its power to destroy this State, how can one place the entire burden for this intractable situation on Israel alone?

Daniel S. Mariaschin, Executive Vice President, B'nai B'rith International