IN HIS latest letter (March 8) Robert Smith asserts that defenders of Israel like me always make exceptions for Israel.

First, he claims that Israel started the 1967 war. In truth, the starting point was the announced blockade by Egypt of the Gulf of Aqaba, cutting off the Israeli port of Eilat. Tell us, Mr Smith, of a comparable provocation that was not considered an act of war.

And which side started the wars in 1948, 1956, and 1973?

Second, he claims that Arab refugees from Israel have a right to return' confirmed by the UN. In truth, the UN Resolution of December 11, 1948, grants refugees the right only of resettlement, not of return.Want me to quote the resolution?

Tell is, Mr Smith, how many of the 40 million refugees worldwide following World War II were granted the right to return and not merely the right of resettlement. Israel actually compensated many of the refugees, even though most of them could have chosen to remain in Israel and become citizens.

Third, he refers to Israel's abuse of human rights'. Can he tell us of any Arab country which treats its own people better than Israel treats even those who revel in murdering its citizens. In one month in 1970 Jordan killed more Palestinians than Israel has done in its history.

Finally, Mr Smith notes Israel's possession of nuclear weapons. Tell me, Mr Smith, of any other country the very existence of which has been threatened since its founding. How should Israel respond to Iran's recent call for its being wiped off the map' a call that has been made by Arab countries ever since 1948?

Robert Segal, Lancaster.