Laying the blame for troubles in Iraq

Regarding the opinion-page column "It's Not Too Late to Try Saddam," Oct. 16: I am amazed to read that Saddam Hussein bashing continues. While the health of the Iraqi people is degraded by lack of sufficient food, clean water, and electrical services, and the environment is harmed by the oil spills and fires, placing the blame will not solve these problems. The column completely overlooks the choice President Bush and Congress made in becoming an aggressor instead of negotiating a settlement.Robert Santway, Brattleboro, Vt. Letters are welcome. Only a selection can be published, subject to condensation, and none acknowledged. Please address them to "Readers Write," One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115.