On 22 February 2010, the Daily Express published a letter on Iraq by Arab Media Watch adviser Guy Gabriel.

I was saddened to read that Frederick Forsyth feels that "it was the Iraqis themselves who wrecked their own land" and that the allies 'shock and awe' caused little damage ("Only a despot can control a benighted land," 19 February).

Has he forgotten his description of Iraq in the British media at the time of the invasion as "this rich land with its talented, charming people" (23 March 2003)?

Few will agree to expunge the fact of the invasion from Western history books as Forsyth seems to advocate. As the Chilcot Inquiry has shown, constantly ducking responsibility for Iraq will not lead to reconciliation and the mindset to move on.

Guy Gabriel