I often read your articles and admire their strength and courage. However, this time I had to respond to your piece on Arafat because each and every point it made - especially about the King interview - were absolutely true, and beautifully articulated. The political sclerosis of 'Palestinian' leadership is not particular to Palestine, but most of the Arab world. As I winced from embarrassment as I saw Chairman Arafat stutter and puff himself like a teddy bear the American air waves, I moved from channel to channel not bearing to see the entire interview. God help the Palestinians!

Aymen M. Khalifa, Visiting Fellow International Forum for Democratic Studies

What is going on at MER. Mark Bruzonsky sounds more like a gossip columnist than a serious reporter of Middle-Eastern affairs. I'm a Palestinian supporter and no fan of Mr. Arafat in his currant role but this degrading, insulting trashing of him personally is too much. I don't know how much you say is true but even if it all is please do not revel in seaminess.

John Allan