Readers React: Netanyahu’s unwelcome visit to the U.S.

To the editor: For decades, U.S. presidents have urged the Israeli government to stop building Jewish settlements in the West Bank. This request to abide by international law has been ignored, increasing tensions in the Mideast. (“Israel is drawn into U.S. tussle over sanctions on Iran,” Jan. 21)

But now Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted the invitation of a member of the Republican Party to come to the U.S. and speak before Congress to urge greater sanctions against Iran. Why does he believe that publicly involving himself in the internal policy decisions of the U.S. regarding Iran is appropriate as well as beneficial to Israel?

If increased sanctions undermine the current negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program, what does Netanyahu expect to happen? Will he urge the U.S. to bomb Iran?

Doris Isolini Nelson, Los Angeles

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To the editor: When are we going to stop witnessing self-serving and dangerous politics being played at the expense of our peace and security?

It is reprehensible that House Speaker John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) and Netanyahu have arranged a speech before Congress soon to denounce Iran and undermine diplomatic efforts by President Obama to build Mideast peace.

This is an insult to the United States and it hampers efforts to use diplomacy with Iran for peace.

Lillian Laskin, Los Angeles

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