I refer to the article Expats celebrate Halloween the American way (November 1). We were amazed to see the variety of costumes people of various nationalities came up with during celebrations. The venues had fantastic decorations and great treats, including cupcakes and individually-wrapped gingerbread cookies. Scary music and lights at Halloween parties added to the fun.
Becky Lahniche, Dubai
I saw so many British people out on the night of October 30 in costumes. I was surprised as Halloween wasn’t until the next day. Other nationalities also celebrated Halloween. It was nice to see people from so many countries following the American tradition.
Favy Siasi, Dubai
It is nice that people just celebrate the occasion here and are not caught up in political correctness as in America.
Lisa Novelli, Dubai
Israel should justify murder of Palestinian man
I am sad to hear about Mutaz Hijazi, who was killed mercilessly by Israeli policemen (Israeli police execute suspect, October 31). The young man did not deserve to be killed merely on the basis of suspicion. This is in no way justifiable.
Also, it’s a pity that Muslims are being barred from praying at Al Aqsa mosque’s compound despite the fact that the latest incident is a hate crime carried out against the Palestinians by the Israeli forces. Hijazi’s death should not go in vain. Israel should admit its crime, because it is answerable to the world.
Fatima Suhail, Sharjah
Condition of Iraq is painful
I liked Shadi Ghanim’s cartoon of October 27, showing Iraq’s crumbling heritage. Iraq – or Mesopotamia as it was known earlier – is the cradle of civilisation. It’s painful to see what violence has done to it. There is no end in sight to this cycle of violence. Its condition should make us all feel ashamed of ourselves.
Name withheld by request
Music in video is too dramatic
With reference to the video posted on Facebook on “Operation Wooden Doors”, Abu Dhabi Police have done a commendable job. They need to remain vigilant, because terrorists are trying to raise money through drugs-related activities. Those found guilty of drugs crimes should not be shown mercy.
Name withheld by request
I watched the video. The operation was great. However, the music is a tad too dramatic. It doesn’t seem to fit the video.
Saif Omar Al Suwaidi, Abu Dhabi
I saw the video and hope that the culprits will be given a harsh punishment.
Ayyathan Radhakrishnan, Dubai
School alert not just for UAE
I refer to the article Schools told to be vigilant (October 31). I think the alert is meant for the whole of the Middle East, and not specifically for the UAE. But it is wise to make sure you have the embassy phone number with you and know where your passport is.
Jonathan Weekes, Abu Dhabi
It’s better not to play with ghosts
Ghosts and super natural powers undoubtedly exist in the world (Pursuit of the paranormal, October 31).
However, it is one’s personal choice to believe it or not. While what this group is doing may be interesting to some, I am of the opinion that they are endangering their lives by visiting places known to be haunted and seeking to collect evidence of any paranormal activity. Curiosity may often lead to uninvited trouble.
Name withheld by request
These activities show that some people have too much time on their hands.
Safia Sa, Abu Dhabi
