To the editor:

Reading the incredibly misguided editorial, "At the Boiling Point With Israel," I'm reminded of Senator Patrick Moynahan's observation that one is entitled to one's opinion, but not to one's own facts. The building the editorial board is so incensed about will not be a "new settlement;" it will be within an existing community.

I also find it puzzling that when it comes to Israel, The New York Times makes an exception to its usual policy of opposing discrimination on the basis of race, creed or national origin and, instead, supports making judenrein the West Bank, the historic homeland of the Jewish people until recently generally referred to as Judea and Samaria.

Honestly, would the presence of a relative handful of Jews make a difference if the Palestinian Arabs were really interested in living together in peace?

The reality: opposition to Israeli "settlements" is an impediment to peace.

Some sage advice to President Obama in his last days in office: don't do any more damage.

Sincerely,

Alan Stein