I had been struggling with mixed emotions about the never-ending Israeli-Gaza conflict. It was Barney Frank’s Aug. 17 column (“History sides with Israel once again”) that sorted out the “mix of agreements and disagreements” about this controversy for me. Clearly, both sides must accept their share of blame for the hostilities.

Frank makes the salient point that it is Hamas, not the Palestinians, who are Israel’s sworn enemy. As Frank observed, “Israel, in 2005, under Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, left Gaza to the governance of the Palestinian Authority. Sadly within two years, Hamas, dedicated then and still to Israel’s destruction, took over the territory.”

I had been troubled by Maine “Palestinian sympathizers” who claim Israel is the “brutal” aggressor and bears sole responsibility for civilian casualties.

They cannot disregard Hamas’ rocket attacks, whose only purpose is to provoke an Israeli response. The sacrifice of guiltless Palestinians is a direct consequence of these provocations.

In keeping with our ideals of justice and compassion, shouldn’t we mourn impartially the loss of all innocent lives, whether Palestinian or Israeli, Arab or Jew?I was distressed by the “Hamas apologists” who support and actually condone Hamas’ constant intrusions into Israeli territory. Should we not condemn all cowardly terrorists, whether they are called al-Qaida or Hamas?

Israel is not without fault. I agree with Frank: “Israel’s expansion of settlements, especially those outside the boundaries of Jerusalem, is a self-wounding mistake.”

He continues, “Israel’s standing in public opinion is greatly damaged by the settlement policy.”

Hamas is dedicated to the annihilation of the Jewish state rather than the negotiation of a lasting peace for Palestinians. I fear there is no end in sight for the Israeli-Gaza conflict.

Phyllis Kamin

Cumberland

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