Letter: Path to peace in Mideast begins with a ceasefire

Editor:

The war in Israel and Gaza is tragic and demands a call for a ceasefire and a peaceful and just resolution.

There is generational pain and suffering on the part of both Jews and Palestinians. To further complicate things, Iran and allied militant groups are working to undermine Israel and using the predicament of the Palestinian people for their own objectives. For both Jews and Palestinians, there is fear and isolation and a simple desire for a safe place to worship.

It must be made clear that Hamas does not speak for the Palestinians. Hamas is hated by many Palestinians. The Palestinian Authority has committed itself to nonviolence and a two state solution, and moderate Arab states have condemned the Hamas attack.

The actions of the Israeli government should also not be confused with the desires of most Jews. Many Jews strongly oppose the actions of the current leadership of Israel. The widespread bombing of Gaza and the deaths of thousands of Palestinians are not a path to the elimination of Hamas or to a future of peace and safety but only to the generation of further anger and hatred.

There is an alternative that begins with a permanent ceasefire. There are forces working toward peace. Groups and organizations of Palestinians (Christians and Muslims) and Jews are working together to end the violence and work toward peace.

Although the problems in the region are immense, pursuing the goal of peace is the only option.

Keith B. Miller
Caernarvon Township

Source: Berkshire mont