‘Nicaraguan Obsession’

Many Americans are outraged by the treatment of Eugene Hasenfus in Nicaragua. The U.S. government, echoing the outrage, claims that his trial is “a show” performed by a “kangaroo court.” Nevertheless, the Nicaragua government has the right to sentence Hasenfus to the 30-year term.

We, as Americans, need to understand that we would never tolerate anyone, citizen or foreigner, endangering our national security or promoting terrorism within our borders. Hasenfus, by participating in the covert arms shipments to the contras, was directly endangering Nicaragua’s national security. The weapons that he was transporting would be used for terrorist activity by the contras. Considering this, the tribunal was within its bounds to try and sentence Hasenfus.

It is unfortunate that Hasenfus and his family have to experience such a trauma but, in Sally Hasenfus’ words, “Gene realizes that in accepting the job he has made a terrible mistake . . .” If only the United States government would realize they are involved in the same mistake.

RAMONA RECENDEZ

Monterey Park