'It Has Done Nothing'

This editorial is so wrongheaded, it's difficult to know where to begin.

The author writes: If Israel and the U.S. are serious about supporting democracy in Arab countries, then they can't penalize voters for their choices.

False. Other nations can acknowledge the results of a democratic election but the leadership choice made by the electorate -- in this case, a terrorist militia espousing genocide -- carries with it consequences in terms of international support and foreign aid. Israel is not under any obligation -- morally or legally -- to collect taxes or pay those revenues to a regime committed to its annhilation.

The author also writes: The U.S. has put more emphasis on giving aid to governments that show progress on human rights, democracy and other ideals.

False. The second largest recipient of American foreign aid is Egypt -- a nation with a horrendous record of human rights violations and one that permits its Muslim population to systematically and at times, violently oppress its religious minority of Coptic Christians.

The objectives and tactics of Hamas are well known and spelled out in their charter. Until that changes, not one penny of US taxpayer money should be sent to support this bloodthirsty regime.

Posted by: Charles Martel at Feb 21, 2006 4:11:52 PM