The Los Angeles Times privides two views on the question on its op—ed page. Of course, the writer who approves of appeasing terrorists and murderers and allowing them to "get off" scott—free is a former State Department official whose most arduous task was probably making sure the water cooler was filled.

The opposition to amnesty comes from a soldier who actually has his life on the line. I believe it does not take much wisdom or research to show that when Israel released prisoners, for example, many of them continued their terrorist ways and have been implicated in further violence. The magnanimous gesture has not garnered any favor for the Israelis, who are daily subject to missile attacks from Gaza.

Gitmo releases have also been caught engaging in further violence. By the way, has anyone heard of recidivism among released felons in America and the fact that longer and more assured jail sentences have resulted in less crime?

Ed Lasky  6 23 06