Support for an Israeli Security Barrier

Cal Thomas | Syndicated columnist | Published: Oct 02, 2003

Support for an Israeli Security Barrier

The Israeli cabinet has voted to extend a security barrier that would sweep around Jewish settlements deep in the so-called West Bank. The security fence will have some large gaps for now to appease American concerns.

It's about time. Israeli civilians have been sitting ducks for Palestinian terrorists for too long. They need additional protection and the security barrier can't hurt and may help.

Naturally, Israel's enemies are protesting, but why, unless they mean Israeli civilians more harm. This is a defensive measure, not an offensive one and it is designed to save lives, not take them.

Israeli radio reported that similar barriers also would be erected east of several other settlements in the West Bank heartland, including the town of Efrat, just south of Bethlehem.

Dozens of Israelis have been murdered in more than 100 homicide bombings during the last three years of Palestinian-instigated violence. I'm all for these barriers and I'll bet most Americans and certainly most Israelis are, too.

I'm Cal Thomas in Washington.

Support for an Israeli Security Barrier