To the Editor:

Re "Land First, Then Peace" (op-ed, Sept. 13):  The explanation given by Ambassador Turki al-Faisal as to why his government won't extend some level of recognition to Israel is just more of the same old failed policy that has been the source of so much anguish in the region.

The truth is the Saudis have been the leaders in opposing Israel's acceptance in the region long before there were any occupied territories or settlements. From the beginning of Israel's existence, if Saudi Arabia had not been in the forefront of Arab rejectionists, much bloodshed could have been avoided.

Israel has given the Saudis many opportunities to move forward, including Ehud Barak's and Ehud Olmert's peace offers to the Palestinians which envisioned a Palestinian state and Ariel Sharon's withdrawal from Gaza. The Saudis did nothing.

Enough excuses, Mr. Ambassador. Now is the time to act to end the decades-long Saudi belligerent and hostile posture toward Israel and its very existence.