I trust I am not the only reader to be totally appalled by John Parry's support for Bush and his lackey Blair in their intention to invade Iraq (September 13).

Mr Parry's assertion that those of us who regard such an operation being immoral as "profoundly absurd" is an affront to those Britons (a majority) who are opposed to the war.

As a Christian, I would suggest this exercise is not just immoral but also contrary to the will of God.

Very few would disagree that Saddam Hussein is a dangerous military dictator who used poison gas as a battlefield weapon.

Why, then, did the US provide arms to Iraq in order to suppress Iran? The US is primarily responsible for Saddam still retaining power.

Mr Parry's opinion that Saddam "will eventually build a nuclear bomb" may have some substance, although I ask when is the US getting rid of its?

This is the only country ever to have used nuclear weapons in conflict, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths.

What, then, is the true purpose of this war? The US is concerned Saddam might attack Saudi Arabia or another oil-producing state, thus short-circuiting American fuel supply. During the first Gulf War, a White House aide was heard to remark: "If Kuwait grew carrots, we wouldn't give a damn." Precisely.

-Alan Tullett, The Kiln, Burgess Hill