November 6, 2003 (printed on CMEP letterhead)

 

The Honorable George W. Bush

President of the United States of America

The White House

Washington, DC  20500

 

Dear Mr. President,

All Americans recognize the great challenge and threat posed to our nation and our lives by terrorist acts. Many other nations also face the scourge of terrorist acts directly and have readily stood with the United States in a shared commitment to attain security and prevent violence. The participation of Syria and Iran in anti-terrorism efforts is important and should not be rebuffed or reversed. We believe that the approach of the United States to problems related to these two strategically located countries should not inflame historic tensions, but should rather help pave the way for a more peaceful future.

Churches for Middle East Peace has advocated that the United States pursue diplomatic relations with Iran and engage in dialogue that can defuse mutual hostility, encourage human rights and foster a regional commitment toward common security.  We urge the United States to work with the international community to ensure that Iran’s nuclear development does not pose a military threat.

Churches for Middle East Peace has supported a U.S. role in facilitating peace negotiations between Syria and Israel, and Lebanon and Israel, and has supported the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon. We ask the Administration to reject the restrictions on diplomacy and sanctioning of trade in the new Syria Accountability Act. We also urge the Administration to dissuade Israel from further military raids in Syria as retaliation for terrorist attacks. If Syria poses any threat to its neighbors, diplomatic measures would best address the matter. The possibility for an Israel-Syria agreement ensuring their mutual security should not be compromised.  

Mr. President, we ask that you give witness to these values and principles that are the fundamental cornerstones of our nation. We ask you to build dialogue with Syria and Iran. We ask you to join with other nations and work cooperatively against global terrorism and for the mutual security of all countries in the troubled Middle East. We are convinced that the security of the people of the United States can best be gained by means of cooperative engagement with the international community, including Syria and Iran, and an evenhanded commitment toward peacemaking.