Although I can understand the AUT's frustrations over Israel, we ought not to attack fellow academics wherever they are - Israel, Zimbabwe, the US, North Korea or Iran - but by contact and example should gently encourage them to help change their country's ways.
As a Catholic, I do not agree with everything that is or has been done in the name of my Church and feel no compulsion to be a blind apologist for the "sins" of the Vatican.
I thus find it very strange that most Jews, though not all, seem to feel threatened if Israel is criticised in the least way. It would be refreshing if many more Jews criticised at least the more objectionable practices of Israel. Jews everywhere, please speak out. AUT, please shut up.
M. Cain
Bangor