2nd Big Attack in Days on Pilgrims in Iraq

To the Editor:

Re: “2nd Big Attack in Days on Pilgrims in Iraq” (news article Feb 4):
As an American who enjoys relative safety and normality on a daily basis, I was moved by Marc Santora’s article. These Shiite pilgrims have been bombed numerous times on their journey and still the resolve to complete this quest is resolute. The story, occurring in Iraq is one that inspires questions about how can we defend people against such attacks as these. I am not speaking of Americans coming in and shielding everyone but rather something that these people can do to minimize the damage done and the death toll. It would seem in much of the Middle East the people, as we are apt to do, have simply adapted to living with such threats as part of the everyday. In light of these persistent attacks against Shiite pilgrims perhaps as a short term-goal someone should focus on how to protect local economies, properties and people. While others hassle with the long –term goal of healing, at least part, of this festering situation in the Middle East.

Estelle S.
Denver, Feb 5, 2010