Cycle of violence

A Letter to Burlington Free Press    August 13, 2001

        In a recent commentary, John McLaughry outlined the case where more than $200,000 was awarded a Burlington couple for the "taking" of their land by the city of Burlington in order to build the bike bath (Free Press, July 23). This is an honored principle of the U.S. law. It is the same principle that the United Nations has recognized in calling for the Israeli government to allow Palestinians to return to lands taken from them or be compensated for that taking.

        Much of what the Palestinians want are rights taken for granted here: Access to jobs, health care, and housing - not 50 years of refugee camps; one person, one vote in determining governance; and the separation of church and state - never mind the occupation of their lands by a hostile foreign army.

        Today we watch a spiraling drama that is destroying both Palestinians and Israelis. To move forward constructively, the basic rights of both peoples must be recognized. And, while Israelis have legitimate fears about their security, Palestinians are being forced to flee as they watch their houses and lands repeatedly bulldozed for new Israeli settlements. The Israeli government is violating international law and illegally occupying another people's territory. Palestinians have given no choice but to resist.

        The current cycle of violence plays into the hands of extremists on both sides. U.S. policy must adhere to democratic principles, respecting the aspirations for dignity and safety among both peoples.

TOM O. SMITH

Burlington