An Impossible Occupation
Scott Anderson's fascinating article (May 12) succeeds in presenting the conflict in the Middle East in a way few other articles have. His time spent with the soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces allows us to see some of the real challenges and paradoxes of this conflict. The soldiers in this intimate portrait, while not eager for war, operate with professionalism, caution and a strong awareness of the limits of military force.
By allowing their voices to be heard and their actions to be seen, the soldiers are replacing much of the distorting rhetoric that engulfs discussions of the conflict with the voices of those who are responsible for doing what they must do to stop terrorism. At the same time, they are also concerned with the long-term implications of their actions for peace between two peoples.
Adam Gregerman  New York