Last Post, May 18

It’s time the Hamas leadership was rebuffed by Western nations. If the Gaza-Israel border was not rushed by thousands of slingshot-wielding fighters, there would have been no deaths. We should accept that another culture might lionise suicidal behaviour, rather than compromise and co-operation.

Paul Rozental, East Melbourne, Vic

Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu can’t fool the world. Jerusalem was the capital of Israel until Solomon’s death in 922BC — fewer than 200 years. Israel divided then and Jerusalem never again became capital of Israel. It was capital of Judah.

Irene Shanks, Mareeba, Qld

There will never be peace in the Middle East until Hamas has been obliterated from the planet.

Colin White, Bayswater, WA

Malcolm Turnbull should follow Donald Trump’s lead by moving the Australian embassy to Jerusalem. Remember, Trump supported Turnbull by agreeing to take our asylum-seekers. Acknowledging reality may even facilitate peace.

Allan Kalus, Windsor, Vic

[These short letters appeared in The Australian.]