Tribune foreign correspondent Joel Greenberg’s “Wall casts shadow on Arabs in Bethlehem” and the ominous photograph of the wall, with the caption ” . . . in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus,” render a disservice to fairness in journalism.
Since a picture is better than a thousand words, this photograph and the caption on the Tribune’s front page give the impression that the wall, imprisoning Arab Palestinians throughout the land, especially in Jesus’ birthplace, insults not only Arabs but also the Christian faith.
Nowhere in the article is it mentioned that a small percentage of the security fence is a wall.
The wall is for preventing Arab terrorists attacking Jerusalem, as was the case before it was built.
The remaining part of the security barrier is just a fence very similar to the one we have at the border with Mexico to prevent illegal immigration.
If a fence can be good enough to prevent illegal immigration, then how better it is to prevent suicide bombers from blowing up innocent citizens.
The effectiveness of the fence has been proven and documented by foreign leaders as well as journalists.
There is no doubt that the security fence worsens the life quality of Arab Palestinians who have to wait considerable time at checkpoints.
Greenberg should vent his rhetoric toward those who are really responsible for building the security fence and causing the exodus of Christians from Bethlehem: the Palestinian leadership that has been complacent in combating terrorism.
