The opinions expressed by Rabbi Anson Laytner in JTNews (“Ariel Sharon: A depreciation,” Jan. 24) are very wrong. The actions of Ariel Sharon on behalf of the state of Israel should be applauded, not criticized. As a 14-year-old, he joined the Haganah to protect his country. As head of Unit 101 he fought against enemies from all sides, severely outnumbered, and won. Ariel Sharon as a leader had to make decisions that are extremely tough and under circumstances no one can fathom. He did just that — he made the decisions and Israel is stronger, better, and more prepared as a result of his actions and decisions. With regards to the rabbi’s opinion that Palestinian blood was shed, I urge you to look at the facts. The militias were merely asked to get rid of the terrorists and nothing more. They acted on their own in the massacre that occurred. Gaza was another tough decision for Sharon and his decision to evacuate was met with many protests, but in the end, though not a perfect solution , so many Israeli lives were saved as a result of being on our side of the border. There is a high price to pay for the safety of your people and Ariel Sharon was willing to pay that price.
Ariel Weber, , Seattle