To the editor:

The editorial, "Donald Trump Seems Confused About Jerusalem" (December 16), makes some good points. It doesn't make sense to recognize the reality of Jerusalem as Israel's capital - where else does anyone think Israel's capital is? - but continue to have government maps not reflect that truth and continue to refuse to list the country of birth on the passports of Americans who were born in Jerusalem, Israel.

The New York Times acknowledges that Israel's government has been based in Jerusalem since 1948. (Actually, because of the war the Arab countries launched, Ben Gurion wasn't able to govern out of Jerusalem until 1949.) By definition, that makes Jerusalem Israel's capital. Why does The Times have a problem with the American government recognizing the truth? In essence, The Times is arguing that, when it comes to Israel's capital, dishonesty is the best policy.

Denying the truth in order to appease Arab and Muslim "sensitivities" (a euphemism for threats and terrorism) has been a huge and costly mistake. President Trump has taken a baby step towards rectifying that mistake. He needs to go all the way and he should get the full support of everyone who respects honesty and supports peace.

Sincerely,

Alan Stein