Sir, – Addressing your paper’s claim that “Ireland is still widely perceived by many Israelis as the most anti-Israeli country in the EU”, Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Coveney agrees that “it is frustrating”, but goes on to state that “[we] are not taking sides” but see “Palestinian priorities and Israeli priorities in equal terms” (“Proof is required to back up Israeli allegations against NGOs”, November 3rd)
In view of archbishop Desmond Tutu’s oft-quoted assertion that “[if] you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor”, Mr Coveney’s frustration is understandable.
To proclaim that the “priorities” of the occupier and the occupied are “equal” and yet to be associated by Israelis with the pro-Palestinian views of those whom you supposedly represent must be galling indeed!
– Yours, etc,
RAYMOND DEANE
Dublin 1.