Rumor and innuendo

Editorial

Calling the matter a "purported Israeli 'sky caper,'" columnist Robert Scheer wrote in the Los Angeles Times this week: "With friends like these, Israel doesn't need enemies." He was referring to a CBS news report on Aug. 27 that the FBI is investigating a Pentagon official who allegedly gave classified documents about Iran to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). That official, since identified as Larry Franklin, an Iran analyst, is said to be an outspoken friend of Israel.

The media has pounced on the speculative report, forcing AIPAC and Israel to assume a defensive stance.

One report posits that Franklin may have been frustrated because higher-ups at the Pentagon were not taking action concerning Iran that he deemed necessary, and figured that AIPAC, with its contacts in the Bush administration, might help. His alleged frustration is reminiscent of that of former counterterrorism expert Richard Clarke with top Bush administration officials before 9/11.

AIPAC has denied any involvement, declaring: "We will not let any innuendo or false allegation ... distract us from our central mission - supporting America's interests in the Middle East and advocating for a strong relationship with Israel."

In these critical times, our national leaders must focus on efforts to achieve Middle East peace. And the media would be well-advised to report real news - not rumor and innuendo.

Blasts upset calm Israel

The sense of calm that sheltered Israel in the past six months was shattered Aug. 31 by terrorist blasts - just seconds apart - that rocked two buses in Beersheba. As the smoke cleared, rescue workers uncovered 16 bodies and assisted nearly 100 wounded.

Hamas has claimed responsibility, saying the attacks were to avenge the assassination earlier this year of two of its leaders. A senior Israeli military official told Ha'aretz that Damascus continues to support terrorists who use Syria as a staging area.

The controversial security fence in the West Bank has helped Israel thwart numerous incursions by would-be attackers. But in the wake of the Beersheba bombings, officials and analysts say the lull was an illusion. Israel has announced it will isolate Hebron and crack down on terrorists' infrastructure there.

Despite Israel's numerous peace overtures during the past 56 years, the Jewish nation still lives in a state of war. We are reminded that it was attacked on Yom Kippur in 1973 and successfully defended itself. As Rosh Hashana approaches, let us hope for real peace in the New Year.

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