In Israel’s defense

Re “The Mideast on rewind,” editorial, Feb. 11

The Times yields to no person when it comes to moral relativism. There is a difference between Israel and Iran: One of those nations is an aggressive, murderous regime that supports terrorism; the other is vilified for its occasional desire to defend itself from those attacks. Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s de facto submission to Hezbollah and Hamas has not merely cleared the way for Benjamin Netanyahu’s return; it has necessitated that return.

Now that the United States is determined to extend an olive branch to Iran, Israel’s need to elect persons serious about defending itself has become even more pressing.

Jeffrey P. Meyer

Clearwater, Fla.