The current Israeli administration keeps trying to defeat Hamas with military action. In trying to do so, it keeps killing far more bystanders than militant members of Hamas. The strategy simply guarantees the eventual killing of hostages and a new supply of militants.

A survey of Palestinians shows that most would prefer an alternative to Hamas but see no viable choice. The way to defeat Hamas is to provide another possibility. Either the Palestinian Authority or the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East could be developed into a viable alternative with the police support of Arab nations. However, Netanyahu has continually denied any power for the Palestinian Authority and banned UNRWA from operating in Gaza.

Netanyahu will not permit the alternative that is needed and will remain in office as long as we give him weapons. Sens. King and Collins should join Rep. Pingree in calling for the immediate cessation of offensive weapons to Israel.

Joseph de Rivera
Brunswick