Debate Over U.S. Policy in Persian Gulf

Your Commentary page of Nov. 16 should be printed in every newspaper in the U.S.

Each writer stresses the folly of going to war; each is thoughtful, earnest, reasonable about preventing the catastrophe that would result if President Bush foolishly gave the order to attack without congressional debate, without public support.

Martin, the high school sophomore, talks more sense than the pundits on TV. Ellsberg calls for Congress to assume its constitutional role to stop unnecessary wars. Rosen calls for the peace movement to take back the flag and resist war through teach-ins and nonviolent demonstrations. Hunter, of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, gives the true alternative to war. He says, “Iraq will be defeated by the embargo. It is totally surrounded by countries that do not wish it well . . . Eventually the blockade will force Iraq out of Kuwait. War will bring more costs than benefits.” He even addresses the security of Israel.

I add my comment: Mr. President, you must be brave enough to face your domestic catastrophe, the S&L; black hole. Don’t sacrifice 30,000 American soldiers to get our attention off our real troubles at home.

BARBARA MOREL

Long Beach