APROPOS the editorial `Israeli rapprochement?` (Oct 30). We all know that Israel enjoys cordial relations with many major Muslim states. Turkey has full diplomatic relations with Israel and both countries are partners in trade. Out of 193 members of the UN, 161 have diplomaticrelations with Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu visited Oman recently. Earlier, Israeli sportspersons and seniorofhcers visited UA E and Qatar. The Israeli national anthem was played in the UAE at a sporting event, although the UAE has not recognised Israel. It is common knowledge that Riyadh is more close to Israel than to Tehran.

In his bool(, Neither a Dove nor a Hawk, former foreign minister under Gen Musharraf, Khurshid Mahmud Kusuri writes that a high-level group of officers visited Israel, secretly in the mid-2000s.

Israel has progressed tremendously in all fields. It is a leader in computer hardware technology. Their weapons industry is among the best. Today, where every country puts its own interests before others, it is time we broke the shackles and engaged Israel as a friend. Those who object to Israeli actions in Palestine, they should think about what is happening in Yemen.

This government should not listen to bigots who are against any ties with Israel.

There is no dearth of them in Pakistan.

Jaff`ar Naqvi Lahore