The Middle East was prominent in the presidential debates. Both candidates noted the importance of peace in the region. Yet, instead of focusing on the fundamental problems that have caused Arab and Israeli friction, Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney is saber-rattling over Iran and President Barack Obama is spending $30 million in joint military training in Israel.
Neither major political party seems to be focused on diplomatically solving fundamental problems concerning Arab-Israeli politics: the "hot-spot" issues of Israeli settlements extending into Arab lands far beyond the 1967 "green line" boundary and the ongoing lack of respect for Palestinian needs, including issues of military rule without representation, basic land and human rights, and the need for a good economy.
The United States is a good friend to Israel and can be helpful in the region by brokering diplomacy and by offering strong but constructive criticism of its government's inaction in solving serious Palestinian issues.
MARK KLEIN
Niskayuna