To the editor: War in the Middle East is heating up again, with the ceasefire in peril over attacks from both U.S. and Iranian forces (“Fresh attacks in the gulf spark fears of renewed war with Iran,” May 4). The last direct negotiations between the two countries were a month ago. It is time to resume them, and this time, send seasoned diplomats to negotiate a lasting peace rather than President Trump’s business associate and son-in-law, neither of whom has the particular experience — nor, it seems, aptitude — in such negotiations.
Whoever is sent must have some latitude to engage in good-faith discussions about how to end the war. It seems counterproductive, and a bit unreasonable, to insist on a continued blockade of Iranian shipping while demanding that Iran allow unfettered transit through the Strait of Hormuz.
The time for bluster and threats is over. We should give peace, and substantive negotiation by skilled diplomats, a chance.
Richard Leman, Honokaa, Hawaii
