I was appalled to read Deanne Danforth’s reasoning in her letter, “Israeli war crimes” (Jan. 17). She was “ashamed that the U.S. government approves of Israel’s inhumane treatment and genocide of the Palestinians.”

In her view, America and Israel are seemingly treacherous and guilty. The verdict is in and she has wielded her gavel – lock, stock and barrel!

I would submit to her that, in a civilized society, any person or entity is innocent of any accusation until proven otherwise in a court of law – state, federal, national or international. Danforth should inform the Sun Journal audience what court has accused Israel’s government, or the U.S., of such crimes.

I also find it interesting that Danforth uses the term “concentration camp” in describing the Palestinian population. In light of history, it seems rather an attempt to turn the tables on the Israeli perspective.

Does she actually believe that Hamas’ Palestinian militants are running around in uniform, easily identifiable to the Israeli military?

I can’t completely agree with what Israeli officials are doing. But after Sept. 11, I understand why they’re doing it. In the days after 9/11, I was just as understanding of our own nation’s leadership.

I pray for innocent Palestinian victims, but that doesn’t make what the Israelis are doing wrong – not from my point of view.

Jeff Thistlewaite, Auburn