Israelis and Palestinians

In “Palestinians Weigh Hope Against History” (Commentary, Aug. 6), Daoud Kuttab seems to think that the United States owes something to the Palestinians. In fact, the United States owes nothing to the Palestinians. By supporting Saddam Hussein in the Gulf War, the Palestinians alienated the United States and became the pariahs of the Middle East.

In the world of international politics each country looks out for No. 1. In this case, the United States supports Israel because it is in its best interest to do so. The Palestinians have continually shown their desire for the destruction of Israel (most recently when they cheered the Scud attacks on Israel). As Israel is the United States’ best friend in the Middle East, it is fantasy to think that Washington will embrace the Palestinians, the enemy.

MATTHEW WOLFBERG

Chairman, Israel Action Committee

Santa Barbara