Not an attack on Muslims

I write regarding media reports about anti-terrorist operations in Australia by the Australian security services in the wake of the bombings in Bali.

It is most unfortunate that some of these reports suggest that these operations have been directed specifically against Indonesian citizens or the Muslim community.

This is not true. As the Australian Attorney-General, Daryl Williams, who is the Minister responsible for security in Australia, made clear in comments to the media on Oct. 30, "these operations are not directed at the Islamic community or at any particular community within Australia....they are directed at individuals who are believed to possibly have knowledge about JI (Jama'ah Islamiya)."

Both Indonesia and Australia supported the Oct. 25 listing in the United Nations of Jama'ah Islamiya as a terrorist organization. We each have obligations as a result of this to take appropriate action.

Our two countries and peoples are victims of the Bali bombings. Many Indonesians and Australians have died. We have been working closely and actively since Oct. 12 to support Indonesian efforts to bring the individuals and organizations responsible for this appalling crime to justice, whoever they might be. Australia is very pleased with the level and extent of this cooperation.

Terrorism does not discriminate. Nor do we in the pursuit of those responsible. We will not rest until it is defeated.

DAVID RITCHIE, Charge d'affaires a.i. Australian Embassy, Jakarta