Iran deal helps region
U.S. Sen. Susan Collins has been urged by many Mainers to vote either for or against an agreement that would limit Iran’s nuclear development capabilities. The international community has secured this agreement by offering international sanctions relief to Iran. Collins has expressed concern for the stability of the region — our national security notwithstanding.
There is civil turmoil in Syria, sprawling devastation from the so-called Islamic State, abject poverty in Yemen, deterioration of life in Iraq and opium trafficking from Afghanistan. Iran, nevertheless, manages to survive in the region and under the most severe sanctions imposed by the international community. Despite these realities, there have been brash displays of brinkmanship by various politicians on the heels of an anti-Iran-deal lobbying bonanza.
A rejection of an international agreement that relies on U.S.-Iran diplomacy would likely worsen the region. U.S.-led actions in Iraq and Afghanistan have already strengthened Iran’s regional influence. Isolation is glaringly ineffective. War is brutish folly. Direct diplomatic relations with Iran would bolster regional stability. Despite any perceived limitation, the Iran deal is a jumping-off point for U.S.-Iran relations toward broad regional stability.
Furthermore, the Iran deal gives cause for introspection. The agreement was struck in July, when Americans commemorate independence from a Great Britain. What does it say of our values if Maine’s Congressional delegation votes against diplomacy that has already considered and accommodated the will of another people? Is it not the prerogative of the greatest world power that it can advance stability by a compromise?
Mostapha Aghamoosa
South Portland
Unfair article on sanctuary
After reading the Sept. 1 article about protests, I am writing to voice my and my family and friends’ unwavering support for DEW Haven and its owners, Bob and Julie Miner. I have personally known the Miners for the past 14 years. My family and friends have volunteered at their animal sanctuary, and my son did his Eagle Scout project under their mentorship.
I find it alarming and questionable that Kristina Snyder, a member of the New Hampshire Animal Rights League, organized a protest in Maine and was given such a large voice in your newspaper. Exactly what are Snyder’s qualifications? Is she a veterinarian or a biologist?
I thought blackballing individuals went out after Maine’s Sen. Margaret Chase Smith set Joseph McCarthy in his place with her June 1950 “Declaration of Conscience” speech. Smith’s demands for “validity, accuracy, credibility and fairness” still ring true today, and it is of utmost importance that our media outlets adhere to unflinching journalistic standards and provide unbiased reporting to the public.
Giving Snyder’s message this much coverage is purposely creating an atmosphere riddled with damaging statements and distrust unjustly toward the Miners.
Sarah A. Sherman
Southport Island
Support for Brooks
As a friend, neighbor and observer of Joan Brooks since 1958, I would like to declare the following: She has performed many duties in the town of Eddington. Her present position as chairman of the Board of Selectmen is above reproach. Her standards are high. She is educated, earned a Ph.D. and retired from a teaching position at the University of Maine.
Recently there has been a petition to recall her for no reason. Social media have run rampant with untruths about her.
Let’s take our town back by voting to keep her in office.
Hilma Adams
Eddington