TERRORISM is universally understood to be acts of violence perpetrated against civilians or non-combatants.

The recent attacks upon the civilian population in Iraq and Palestine are the most appropriate examples of the highest form of terrorism, emanating from an organised military force as opposed to the retaliatory actions of disgruntled groups or individuals.

If civilians casualties is the distinguishing factor, then why is it that when B52s, cluster bombs, cruise missiles used on urban population, and including the recent shooting of children in Iraq and Palestine are somehow categorised as anything else but terrorism?

British and Israeli forces are occupying Arab/Muslims lands; they have been doing this for the last 200 years. The recent resignation of British Cabinet Minister -- Clare Short - only further confirms the continuing deceit of Bush-Blair team.

AHMED RAZA,

Worcester.