OPINION:
“Iran to get billions in deal that sets up release of five detained Americans” (web, Aug. 10) highlights the real dangers for Americans traveling to Iran. Iran is not a friendly country and surely not a wise tourist destination.
I was shocked recently when I watched an episode of “Rick Steves’ Europe” that expounded on the beauty of Iran and the friendliness of the Iranian people. It was a puff piece endorsed by the Iranian government and intended to influence Americans to believe that Iran is a friendly country and a fine tourist destination.
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Iran is a hotbed of state-sponsored terrorism. People on the street may be friendly to Americans, but the government is an archenemy. I fear that irresponsible TV programs such as “Rick Steves’ Europe” will only put more Americans at risk by making us believe that touring Iran is safe.
In my opinion, Americans who travel to countries such as Iran, China, Russia and North Korea are asking for trouble, and we shouldn’t bend over backward by spending billions to save them from their own stupidity.
JACK DUCKWORTH
Burke, Virginia
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