Opinion

Israel’s shock and oy: Striking first against Syria

An Israeli F-16, like those used in a strike on Syria. (AP)

The Issue: Israel’s airstrike on a convoy of Russian-made missiles along the Syrian-Lebanese border.

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Finally, a nation means what its says regarding red lines (“A Mitzvah for Obama,” Editorial, Jan. 31).

Someone threatens Israel’s security, and it acts — unlike the US, whose leaders hold discussions and form committees.

Why is it that Israel’s population is of one mind in fighting terror?

It’s because Israelis know they are the last line of defense against the enemy.

Charlie Honadel

Staten Island

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Thank goodness Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is no Hamlet.

He has shown the world that he can take necessary action to defend his country.

At some point, President Obama has to face the truth: Russia is sustaining and aiding Iran and Syria, which threaten Israel with annihilation.

In every fairy tale, the dragon has to be killed.

Mankind has to learn not to bow to Islamic fundamentalism.

The US and the free world should recognize how brave Israel is.

Netanyahu deserves the accolades of every thinking human being.

Toby Willig

Jerusalem

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There is great consternation about Syria’s stockpile of chemical weapons as the disintegration of this terror state quickens its pace.

Israel is stuck in the neighborhood and is thus in proximate danger, but American interests here and abroad are also at risk if sophisticated weapons fall into jihadist control.

Israel is thus fighting for all of us as she seeks to interdict weapons before they shift hands.

Any condemnation from UN sources that follows Israel’s raid requires an Obama rebuttal.

Here’s hoping he recognizes what is happening — from his position way in the rear.

Paul Bloustein

Cincinnati