To the Editor:

As if David Pollock's examples of the Muslim Brotherhood's contradictory positions on democracy, Copts, women and minorities weren't bad enough, the Brotherhood also engages in serious double-talk when it comes to the party position on the peace treaty with Israel and its attitudes toward Jews ("Democratic double talk in Egypt," Jan. 27).  

While speaking to foreign journalists, Brotherhood officials provide assurances they will not alter the peace agreement with Israel, and say they are tolerant of other religions and beliefs.  However, at political rallies and in their media, extreme anti-Semitic and anti-Israel rhetoric is voiced on a near-daily basis.  On New Year's Day, for example, Rashad Bayoumi, deputy chair of the Muslim Brotherhood, was quoted in an interview in Al Hayat as stating, "We do not recognize Israel at all.  It is a raping, occupying, criminal enemy entity."

As the U.S. and other governments engage with the newly elected parliamentary leadership of Egypt, it is imperative for them to call on the Muslim Brotherhood to speak out against anti-Semitism and in support of democracy, and equality for women, Copts and other minorities.