To the editor:

In Afghanistan, the northern alliance provided the nuts and bolts of the offensive, parts of the world community supported U.S. initiatives; but in Iraq no equivalent, indigenous force exists, and there is not international support. This means America will suffer much heavier casualties if we invade Iraq.

Our European and Arab allies oppose military action. Kofi Annan, United Nations secretary general, has called for the United States to avoid military force in the status quo. The Joint Chiefs of Staff along with almost half of the American population are against war with Iraq. It is our president’s responsibility to listen to his constituency, his generals and the international community. Starting a war with Iraq is simple. The consequences are not.

Laura Adams,

Lawrence