U.S. Reaction to Terrorism

I really get miffed by the verbal sword-rattling of petty people like columnist Jody Powell (Editorial Pages, Jan. 8). It surely must require great courage to sit in a secure office in Washington and write scurrilous articles about the timidity of President Reagan in not mounting an attack on Libya and Kadafi. If he would put his brain where his money-grubbing pen is, Powell would realize the enormity of what he is suggesting.

The entire Arab community has gone on record that it would, in concert, support Libya against any such attack. Many of these Arab states are allies, friends, customers, and/or suppliers to the United States, and engaging them in conflict is, in my opinion, both irrational and unthinkable.

I am equally certain that the vast majority of the American people are against any action that would provoke another war, and that they disagree with the half-vast thinking of one Jody Powell.

WHITLEY H. HARRIS

Ojai Valley