Readers React: Iraq’s Kurds deserve -- and need -- help from the U.S.

To the editor: Though few would disagree with proceeding with caution in response to the current situation in Iraq, The Times’ editorial omits several key factors. (“Why are we back in Iraq?,” Editorial, Aug. 9)

First, the Kurdish fighters, unlike the Iraqi army in the Sunni Muslim parts of Iraq, will not abandon their positions and run. Second, one of the Islamic State’s stated goals is to eventually carry out attacks in the United States. Third, the Kurdish parts of Iraq are strong supporters of the United States.

These points make a strong case for at least providing humanitarian aid to the refugees, as well as conducting airstrikes and providing military equipment in support of the Kurdish defenders.

John C. McKinney, Cerritos

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To the editor: The solution to this current invasion of Iraq by the so-called Islamic State is to have a strong Iraqi leader with a strong army to put down this incursion quickly. Someone like Saddam Hussein.

Oh, that’s right: We got rid of him because he was a “bad guy.”

Leo Depoian, Newport Coast