Violence in Jerusalem

The real “melancholy aftermath” of the incident on Temple Mount has been the effort undertaken by the Bush Administration to craft a Security Council resolution condemning Israel for its actions (editorial, “Deadly Force: Melancholy Aftermath,” Oct. 10).

Although I well understand President Bush’s interest in maintaining the impressive coalition of nations arrayed against Iraq, I am concerned that this worthy goal not be allowed to override the United States’ customary hesitancy to endorse one-sided attacks against Israel, which are so often the product of Security Council deliberations.

The facts surrounding the incident appear somewhat unclear. What is clear, however, is that 45 Israeli border policemen were faced with thousands of angry Palestinian Arabs who pelted tens of thousands of Jewish worshipers with stones, bottles and iron sticks. The resulting loss of life was and is a cause of great concern not only to us but to the Israeli government. The ministry of police has already conducted an internal investigation, and an independent commission of inquiry has been appointed.

If the U.S. appears to prosecute Israel for the sake of maintaining this coalition, only Saddam Hussein and the advocates of linkage will be strengthened, while the United States’ leadership of anti-Iraq forces will be called into question.

I would urge the Administration to continue its efforts to resolve the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait--efforts which have our vigorous support--and to refuse to allow the regrettable incident on the Temple Mount to become the rallying point around which Saddam Hussein and his supporters can continue their anti-Western, anti-Israeli diatribes.

RICHARD A. WESTON

President, Los Angeles Chapter American Jewish Committee