I am thankful to Eric Johnston for his March 19 article, "Baha'i in Japan slam Iran for holding members accused of spying for Israel." I am not a Baha'i but have friends who are, and from what I know of this religion and its people, they are compassionate and generous folk. They deserve the backing of the international community in their fight for religious freedom.

Unfortunately, the deafening silence from top officials in the Japanese government goes to show that the current leadership is ambiguous and possibly insensitive to this issue. Whether through public silence toward Tehran or outright sanctions, a clear message from the Aso administration would show the international community that Japan can and will defend the rights of human beings of all faiths — regardless of the prevailing economic ties that might bind Japan and Iran. It's about time that Japan pick a fight.

wayne malcolm