Middle East: the weight of extremists
Roger Moresco, Perpignan (Pyrénées-Orientales)
One reader believes that the current war is “for Israel a question of life and death and that if its army loses it, it will be wiped off the map.” But isn’t this also the case for Palestinian Arabs? By stubbornly refusing the two-state solution, the only one capable of establishing peace in this region, Netanyahu is not only widening a gap between the two peoples, but is also seriously compromising Israel’s security because he is fueling hatred. Extremists on both sides are the misfortune of their people. (“Herzi Halevi, the general who must destroy Hamas”L’Express of January 4.)
Jerusalem, international city
Pierre Cagli, Lausanne (Switzerland)
In 1947, the partition plan for Palestine provided for international supervision of Jerusalem, ensured by the UN. It is surprising that this status of corpus separatum has never been applied, nor even put on the table of successive negotiations (Camp David, Madrid, Oslo, etc.). However, only the status of an “international city” – if necessary imposed on Israel – would be able to somewhat appease the passions unleashed by the Holy City. (“Jerusalem, three thousand years of passions”L’Express of December 21.)
Ukraine: I am ashamed
Christian Mignot, Belz (Morbihan)
I am ashamed. I am ashamed of the behavior of the West, of the “free world”, defender of democracy and freedoms… I am ashamed of Ukraine, which has not been provided with all the necessary means to face the Russian invasion… Don’t the politicians who plan to “talk” with Putin remember the famous declaration: “You had the choice between dishonor and war, you will have dishonor and war” ? (“Sylvie Kauffmann: ‘I fear that Europeans will be blinded by Putin again‘”, on Lexpress.fr.)
The Olympics obsession
André Houzet, Rueil-Malmaison (Hauts-de-Seine)
I am confused by this kind of blind faith in a supposedly festive event which we hope will solve social problems through a care-bear vision, forgetting that it is reindustrialization that will save the country, and not the fairground. (“The Olympics obsession: Potemkin politics“, L’Express of December 14.)
Authority according to Julia de Funès
Bernard Dewas. Orléans (Loiret)
Julia de Funès’ article on management and authority reminds us of the importance of understanding words. Do not confuse equality and equivalence, inequality and injustice, subordination and submission… We come back to the basics. Your articles should be presented in class to our young people as a basis for reflection. (“Management: the virtues of authority”L’Express of December 14.)
Immigration Law: let’s be human and lucid
Pierre Kerleveo, Perros-Guirec (Côtes d’Armor)
The immigration law unleashes passions. However, it should be possible to debate it with humanity and lucidity. I have two Chinese granddaughters myself. It is always political, economic or climatic reasons that push a person to leave their country and their family. Never joy in the heart. However, does it become xenophobic to demand a condition of legal presence on our territory for foreigners who work there before they can obtain social benefits? How can we organize crepe maker training when the apprentice refuses to touch the ham and cider out of religious principle? If the‘we set limits, by explaining the keys to successful integration, by recalling fundamental values, immigration would remain an opportunity for everyone. (“Emmanuel Macron and the immigration law: behind the scenes of a capitulation”on Lexpress.fr.)
Discover the secret history of the Paris Olympics!
After our report dedicated to the behind the scenes of the organization of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, L’Express continues to explore the hidden side of this event, not only sporting, but also political, economic and geopolitical. Our journalists will tell you about the companies that are mobilizing for the success of the event, the political maneuvers to win the laurels, the battles between States to ensure they shine during the events… Find all our content on a special page on our site and, from January 11, our weekly meeting directly in your mailbox.