In answer to Clyde Scott’s accusation of Israeli genocide (August 24):
A closer look will show that he is accusing the wrong people of genocidal intent.
Last weekend the Israeli Air Force attacked and killed 31 Hamas fighters gathered at a compound with a school and a mosque. Israel only proceeded with the attack after confirming that there were no women or children present.
Three weeks ago the Israel Air Force struck a school in Gaza City. Of the 40 killed, Israel was able to name 38 Hamas soldiers. In all probability there were no civilian casualties.
Does that look like genocide? (If Israel had any genocidal intent they would simply have carpet-bombed the whole strip).
In stark contrast, Hamas leaders repeatedly proclaim “We will continue to attack Israel until it is eliminated,” and “Kill everyone who is Israeli.”
This demonstrates clear and frank genocidal intent – frustrated only by Israel’s well tested self defence capability.
Fred Barrett (Cambridge)
In reply to Kate Hayward (September 21):
Allow me to answer the excellent question from Kate Hayward “What are the Palestinian people meant to do?”
The answer would be: Firstly, release the hostages and stop firing rockets into Israel – that will end the current conflict; and more generally, leave Israel alone, and they will be left alone.
Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005 and did leave them alone. But Gazans have not left Israel alone – having persisted with attacks ever since.
Both Egypt and Israel have imposed perfectly legal sanction to hinder these attacks.
Another suggestion for Gazans would be to stop building tunnels and start building homes, industry and a functioning economy with the building material sent in as aid.
Fred Barrett (Cambridge)Media
