Separatist rebels must allow inquiry into MH17

A reader calls for all parties to back an inquiry into the MH17 tragedy. Other topics: Gaza, dogs in the UAE and cycling.

A reader calls for Russian president Vladimir Putin and the pro-Russian rebels, pictured guarding a train containing victims’ bodies, to allow a full inquiry into the down ing of MH17. Robert Ghement / EPAShow less

Regarding US puts pressure on Putin (July 21), this is an appeal to Russian president Vladimir Putin to intervene with the pro-Russian rebels in Ukraine, and to cooperate with the retrieval of victims' bodies and any investigation into the shooting-down of flight MH17.

The situation has been heartbreaking for the relatives of the victims. Even when some of the bodies were loaded onto a train, the prime minister of Ukraine was unsure where the train was headed.

This is a very bizarre situation. Mr Putin has to instruct the pro-Russian rebels to withdraw and let inquiries proceed. All forces in the area must declare a complete ceasefire.

Whoever shot down the plane has shown no consideration for the innocent civilian passengers; now, at least, there should be some respect for their remains.

Rajendra K Aneja, Dubai

Israel has no right to attack Gaza

I refer to 100 killed in Gaza's bloodiest day (July 21).

US president Barack Obama claims that Israel has the right to defend itself.

However, occupying someone else’s land illegally is an attack in itself. How is it that an attacker can simultaneously be a victim?

Israel is not the victim here.

Sydra Malik, Dubai

Frustration over safe-driving signs

I refer to "Am I driving safely?" No, but there is no point in calling the number on the lorries (July 19), about the phone numbers displayed onheavy vehicles.

The other day, I had this commercial vehicle honking and flashing its headlights at me, with the driver trying to get me to give way or to speed up. However, we were approaching traffic lights, so there was no way I could do this.

After the light turned green, I pulled over and called the phone number on the back of the van.

The call was promptly answered by the driver himself – and he began shouting at me for slowing down. I had no other option but to hang up.

Rajesh Lakshminarayan, Dubai

These stickers are compulsory; they are not free and have nothing to do with the companies that own the vehicles. They are a source of revenue for the Road Transport Authority.

Aziza Al Busaidy, Dubai

Don’t ban dogs, but do regulate

I was upset by Rosemary Behan's comments about dogs (I rarely hear a barking dog in the UAE and long may that situation continue, July 20).

While I agree about the number of dogs and cleanliness in the streets, the biggest problem is the number of pet shops that have been allowed to import totally unsuitable animals for this climate.

When I arrived in 1977, the only dogs I saw were little white Pomeranians. Now, you can see Huskies, Alsatians and Briards among other breeds developed in much cooler climates.

I understand that families who relocate here want their pets to come with them – because, as much as your writer might disagree, our pets are family.

We have had many beautiful dogs as part of our family. Now we have only two, and both of them will definitely leave with us when we go, along with our cats, of course.

The government must stop the wholesale import of dogs, cats and other animals for sale. It should allow only animals that are accompanied by their families to enter the country and ensure that those pets leave with that family.

And, as Behan says, designated dog areas should be created so we can let our pets socialise freely.

G Gordon, Dubai

Why do I have to deal with irresponsible parents in restaurants, shopping malls, grocery stores, planes and so on? I don’t like to hear children screaming or crying when I’m trying to watch a movie or eat a meal.

Behan is obviously not an animal lover. I choose to feel sorry for her, because pets are awesome.

Lynn Marie Taylor, Abu Dhabi

Support those who help others

I was pleased to read The zakat campaign by UAE-based Friends of Cancer Patients provides support to cancer patients (July 17).

Please donate to the Shaukat Khanam Hospital, as they gave free treatment to my father.

Muddassar Abbas, Dubai

Cycling is not an option for many

I am writing about UAE must target younger generation for public transport to succeed (July 15), in which an expert suggests people use cycling tracks.

One has to remember about the strong possibility of heatstroke. Also, walking and cycling are not options for mothers with children, the elderly or those with illnesses.

J Bishop, Dubai