WHEN the state of Israel was set up I was very supportive because of the sufferings of the Jewish people down the centuries. They had the opportunity to settle there and live in peace with the inhabitants who had lived for centuries in that region.

They have squandered this chance.

With American hegemony they are protected but they must realise that this could end during this century, and, when it does, they will be left to their own devices.

They must fear for their future unless they very quickly start to make amends.

Geoffrey Bulmer, Billingham.