To the editor:

I have been reading the news from Israel with cautious optimism: the ceasefire with Hamas, an offer to begin talks with Lebanon, and the ongoing talks with Syria and the Palestinians. It seems that in these ways Israel may be heading in the right direction in the seemingly endless Middle East conflicts.

As an American who believes that the security of Israel, its neighbors and the United States is enhanced by a peaceful Middle East, I strongly support these initiatives and hope that the United States will do more to facilitate their success. I hope too that those in the media and in private life who consider themselves friends of Israel will join me in this strong expression of support for negotiation.

Haskell Springer,

Lawrence