THE MARCHES organised, which showed great restraint, will, I fear, have little effect on the continued religious orientated conflict in Palestine. It was intended to bring recognition of the bloodshed between the two groups who both lay claim on territory, each seeking to score points similar to the Irish troubles where every move seems to hang by a thread.

We have all witnessed the scenes of violence on TV; it would appear caused by both sides, only the weaponry differs.

Peaceful solutions and dialogue are the only way out of this near all out war but, as with the Irish problem, the two leaders fail to bend or agree terms. People are killed while they hesitate, whoever acts as go-between is ignored and the hatred continues. If the religious leaders are all-powerful, perhaps it is they who should bring about a solution, not the politicians and business interests.

K Sowerbutts

Southwood Drive, Baxenden