Thank you Sebastian Rotella for explaining very clearly why Israel must defend itself against Hamas rocket attacks (Israeli’s Near Gaza Can’t Lower Guard, 1/14/09). There is one omission that warrants mention: Israel has done more than any other army to try to avert civilian casualties. Before targeting an area to remove Hamas rocket launchers, Israel drops leaflets, calls, and text messages residents to warn them to clear out. Doing this puts Israel’s soldiers at risk by providing tactical information to a ruthless enemy. So while Hamas targets Israeli civilians, and puts its own people in harm’s way by hiding among them, Israel does all it can to warn Palestinian civilians to find safety. It’s not a flawless system, but it’s a perfect example of a fundamental difference – Israel’s respect for innocent life versus Hamas’ disregard for it.

Daniel S. Mariaschin
B’nai B’rith International executive vice president