I HAVE been accused of anti-Americanism - and American policies can often seem malign, violent, and exploitative of the weak.

But that is not the point.

The morality of a common humanity condemns last week's events absolutely. Even if wrought on the Nazis or the worst regime the world has ever seen, they would be unjustifiable.

So I was surprised, but proud, as an atheist and anti-American to find myself in York Minster last week with thousands of others, expressing grief and solidarity with the USA.

However, this is solidarity in distress - not in aggression. (Another surprise is that solidarity has suddenly become an OK word to use.)

As citizens of Old York or New York, we should all be proud to say "Ich bin ein New Yorker".

John Bibby,

Heworth, York.

...MAN'S inhumanity towards man is beyond my belief and understanding.

The people who died in New York and Washington were ordinary people like us, but then again we are living in rather extraordinary times.

While expressing deepest condolences on behalf of my family and myself, it is hoped that the people whose lives were snuffed out on September 11 did not die in vain.

The terrorist act that happened on that day was an outrage on all humanity. The terrorist act that happened a few weeks ago in which the Tamil Tigers of Sri Lanka attacked the civilian airport in Colombo was no different and should also be treated as an attack on humanity.

The only response that Sri Lanka got from the world leaders, including those in the USA, UK and some European countries, was regret at what happened and a standard pat remark about terrorism.

If the world is to change for the better then all acts of terrorism anywhere in the world must be treated in the same vein. If the attack on the World Trade Centre and Washington is treated as the only terrorist act that warrants punishment of the perpetrators then the world will be the same wherever double standards flourish.

Let them not have died in vain.

M Iqbal,

Colombo, Sri Lanka.

...I AM gutted for the American people and the perpetrators of this monstrous atrocity should be hunted down and brought to justice.

But it is a time for cool heads. Whoever did this should not be allowed to get away with it, but Mr Bush and Mr Blair have got to be very careful.

If the US use Pakistan as a base for military action, the Afghans could turn on their neighbours. This could be a vicious circle of conflict and prolonged hate.

N Fletcher,

Langton Road,

Norton, Malton.

Updated: 10:39 Tuesday, September 18, 2001