Revenge attacks on the innocent are unjustified

The kidnapping and murder of a Palestinian teenager can not be justified, a reader says. Other topics: France's niqab ban, children's car seats and UAE national service.

I refer to the kidnap and murder of 17-year-old Mohammed Abu Kdheir (Palestinian family mourns their 'baby' amid revenge attack claims, July 23).

Revenge attacks such as this are in no way justified. It isn’t fair to abduct and kill an innocent Palestinian youth to avenge the death of three Israelis.

This young man was in no way associated with the death of the Israeli youngsters and did not deserve such a tragic fate. I feel terribly sorry for his family who lost their son during the holy month.

It is now time for the world to raise their voice against the violence taking place in Palestine instead of being mute spectators to the injustice.

I sincerely hope that those responsible for the death of this young boy are tracked down and given tough punishment.

Fatima Suhail, Sharjah

It is time for all of us – Muslims and Jews – to start connecting with each other from our hearts.

If we suspend religion and race, just for a second or two, we will discover that we are all just human beings trying to eke out a living in a meaningful manner.

I wish and pray for peace, mercy and blessing to all the mourning families, whether Muslim or ­Jewish.

My heart bleeds for the parents and loved ones who have to navigate, somehow, through this painful experience.

Ahmad Barnard, Abu Dhabi

Let us not forget that the Jewish families also lost three youngsters. Is their anguish no less a tragedy?

E Al Marzouqi, Abu Dhabi

A case of social engineering

I read the column by HA Helllyer, European court's niqab ruling is flawed and wrong (July 4), with interest.

All countries have, and have ­always had, a tendency to “engineer” civil society.

Using the argument of liberalism would be acceptable only if it were not restricted to the topic of the niqab but also included, for ­example, a call for removing the law against being naked in public.

The claim for a different law on the niqab is not a call for liberalism, it is a religious edict.

P Brun, Abu Dhabi

Americans make their own rules

In your editorial Kidnap is a crime even when the US is the kidnapper (July 2), you ask how "extra­ordinary rendition" differs from ­abduction.

The difference is if America does it, it is fine. If anyone else did it, the US would invade their country.

B Pearson, Dubai

Child safety seats must be standard

I agree with the sentiments expressed in Abu Dhabi parents insist on car seat for daughter (June 29).

It’s all about routine and good habit. If you put children in their safety seats from birth, then they won’t cry thinking there are alternatives.

Name withheld by request

It’s sad that the need for child safety seats even has to be discussed. They should be standard.

Christina Gstöttl, Dubai

Restaurant owner sets good example

I refer to Social media initiative helps to feed labourers in Dubai (July 3), which tells the story of ­Indian restaurateur Tahir Shah, who has been feeding workers during Ramadan since 2007.

This is a lovely gesture. More businesses should follow suit.

Chris Murphy, Dubai

Is London a safe place to visit?

I refer to Metropolitan Police assure Emiratis that London is safe after attacks (July 2).

I always feel safe in the UK, and my family are Muslims.

Renate Helga El Seidi, Germany

No place in the world is entirely safe. We all have to be realistic.

The British police have their limitations and the boundaries of UK law to work within.

Obaid Bunaas, Abu Dhabi

Words in praise of national service

UAE national service 'to be making of youth' (July 3) notes that it will be optional for women.

I think women should have to do it also. And a bit of compulsory national service wouldn’t hurt the UK either.

Ian Carless, UK