Thank you John Lazarus and Vivi Royston, for both expressing views that many people share regarding the recent comments made by Randa Abdel-Fattah.
I strongly disagree with her comments and find them deeply unhelpful to constructive discussion.
John Lazarus has demonstrated a genuine understanding of the complex history of the region and the very real suffering experienced by both Israelis and Palestinians. His efforts to promote dialogue and a lasting, peaceful solution deserve recognition.
Too often, debate in this space is driven by superficial commentary and social media soundbites rather than a serious engagement with the historical and political realities of the Middle East.
The Echo frequently speaks about supporting ‘justice and peace,’ but how many articles have you published in your 40 years on the lsraeli perspective?
In publishing John’s letter, the editorial response included an endorsement of Abdel-Fattah’s views and quoted opinions that are highly contested. In my view, this raises legitimate questions about balance and whether the paper risks reinforcing a single anti-Israel narrative.
Danny Wakil, Billinudgel
• The editorial comment was not an ‘endorsement’ of her view that Zionists have no right to cultural safety, cited by Mr Lazarus in his letter. We pointed out that while Abdel-Fattah considers that Zionism is a ‘settler colonialism’ political ideology, more importantly, she says you can be Zionist without being Jewish, or be an anti-Zionist Jew. We think this is important, as rhetoric often conflates Jews, Zionists and supporters of the current right-wing Israeli government. And as for accusing The Echo of running an anti-Israel narrative, we continually run letters with contested Israeli history and pro-Zionist perspectives such as yours, including the two letters last week which you applauded. – Letters Ed
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
