A Whistle-Blower’s Unintended Result

Daniel Ellsberg’s flattering portrayal of Mordechai Vanunu correctly deifies the whistle-blower but cites all the wrong reasons for labeling his deeds heroic (Commentary, April 21).

Vanunu’s validation of Israel’s weapons capability immediately nullified the state’s nuclear ambiguity, effectively putting the fear of Allah into all Arab nations pondering a rematch of the 1973 war. Whereas the last conflict resulted in a humiliating pan-Arab defeat, Vanunu unintentionally made it crystal clear that another attack could not possibly lead to victory, only immolation.

If ever an illustration was necessary to justify nuclear deterrence, Vanunu’s actions provided one. Insofar as he hoped his admission would irrevocably damage Israel, Vanunu failed miserably. However, his expert testimony inadvertently spared the lives of millions. For this miscalculation, Vanunu is indeed a hero, albeit the most reluctant in recent history.

Leo Smith

Van Nuys

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It’s good to know there are people like Vanunu and Ellsberg, men willing to speak the truth, even when the cost is high. Unfortunately, few people are this courageous.

Judy Neunuebel

Santa Barbara