Future of Syria

SIR – As in most conflicts, the desire for peace in Syria is overshadowed by the momentum of war.

Donald Trump’s rhetoric does little to calm an increasingly volatile situation. By declaring the inevitability of missile strikes, he has restricted his options. Too often before, red lines have been drawn and violated, with no response.

It is all too easy to launch cruise missiles, but this course of action may spiral beyond the short-term gains it offers. What is the end game?

A Western military response is justified, but it also risks bringing more fear, instability and destruction to this war-weary country.

Lt Col Jeremy Prescott (retd) Southsea, Hampshire