Category: Americas, World Affairs Topics: George W. Bush, Iraq Views: 3219
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Why the Arab world can thank Bush
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Of the myriad reasons that President George W. Bush gave for invading Iraq, the one that Arabs believed the least was that U.S. troops would install democracy in the Middle East. But last week, as I followed the news coming out of Iraq, I couldn't help wonder if Bush really did do it all for democracy. Do Arabs owe Bush thanks rather than skepticism?
Let's start with freedom of expression - a cornerstone of democracy. On March 28, in a move perfected by Arab despots - the very same ones whom Bush wants to teach about democracy - L. Paul Bremer 3rd, the U.S. administrator of Iraq, shut down a newspaper run by the radical Shiite Muslim cleric, Moktada al-Sadr. His militias rose up in protest, shattering the long-held belief that Iraq's Shiites would not turn against the Americans.
Bremer's move puzzled the Arabs. Where's the democracy in shutting down a newspaper? But here's the rub - it taught the Iraqis the importance of fighting for their freedom of expression. It is a lesson that is not lost on my fellow Arabs, I'm sure. So thanks are due there to the administration.
Minority rights and sectarian strife are stubborn problems in the Arab world. Nowhere were these fissures more fragile than in Iraq. Since Bush declared major combat over last May, car and suicide bombs killed hundreds of Shiites and Kurds. Many worried that Sunni militants were bent on igniting a civil war.
But on April 11, tens of thousands of Shiite pilgrims headed home from the holy city of Karbala after a religious festival ended without incident. Just last month, three suicide bombers struck major Shiite Muslim shrines in Karbala and Baghdad on the final day of the major religious festival of Ashoura, killing at least 125 and injuring hundreds. What changed? Falluja.
Falluja is the latest entry in the blood-soaked lexicon of relations between Muslim Sunnis and Shiites. But unlike Karbala, where Sunnis killed Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein in a 7th century battle, Falluja will be remembered for bringing the two sects of Islam together in Iraq.
And once again, thanks are due to the United States. More precisely, thanks to the U.S. military's punishing siege and bombardment of Falluja. U.S. marines attacked the town, a bastion of Sunni insurgency, in response to the murder and mutilation of four American private security contractors ambushed there. As word spread of the death and hunger in Falluja, Shiites began donating blood, food and militia fighters.
Surely this lesson in sectarian unity has not been lost on my fellow Arabs. Neither will the casualty figures. More than 600 Iraqis, mostly civilians, have died in Falluja since April 9.
Many in the Arab world wondered why Iraqis did not put up more of a fight last year when their country was invaded. But why should Saddam Hussein's terrorized conscripts have fought for him? It is a different story now. Iraqis are fighting for themselves, not for a bloodthirsty dictator. And Iraqis are no longer killing each other as they were earlier this year. Again, thanks are due to Bush.
Now thanks to the mistakes, blunders and heavy-handed tactics of the U.S. military, Iraqis know they can put up a fight. My fellow Arabs, living under dictators of their own, must be wondering about their ability to put up a fight too. How ironic that it has taken the sight of Iraqis fighting the Americans to make them wonder.
The mess in Iraq has alienated even those Arabs who believed Bush's democracy scenario. Ali, a Saudi who once criticized my condemnation of the U.S. invasion, sent me an e-mail last week. "I was such a fool for thinking that the Americans are coming to free us," he wrote. And so I truly thank Bush for losing Arabs and Muslims like Ali and for helping them to agree with me.
Mona Eltahawy is a columnist for Asharq al-Awsat, an Arab-language daily based in London.
Source: International Herald Tribune
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Older Comments:
JOHANNES FROM STANKONIA said:
salamu alaykum
thank you akbar. that was very nice of you bro. i really appreciate it, all is good :)
thank you akbar. that was very nice of you bro. i really appreciate it, all is good :)
2004-05-06
AKBAR KHAN FROM CANADA said:
Assalaamu'Alaiykum, I'm sorry br. Johannes on behalf of Hudd D'Alhamd. He is a good brother...people say things when they're angry - I know he does not think you are what he called you, I certainly do not think that about you.
I love you because you are my brother in Islam and there's nothing that can separate us because we have such a powerful common ground, which is that we both love Allah, and therefore we care about hte well being of each other and believe in the oneness of Allah and a united humanity.
Wassalaam.
I love you because you are my brother in Islam and there's nothing that can separate us because we have such a powerful common ground, which is that we both love Allah, and therefore we care about hte well being of each other and believe in the oneness of Allah and a united humanity.
Wassalaam.
2004-05-03
JOHANNES FROM STANKONIA said:
salamu alaykum.
akhi hudd, you do realize that insulting a muslim is a grave sin do you not? rather than refute my comments, you liken me to a nazi and insult the name my parents gave me? authubillah.
may allah (swt) forgive you.
akhi hudd, you do realize that insulting a muslim is a grave sin do you not? rather than refute my comments, you liken me to a nazi and insult the name my parents gave me? authubillah.
may allah (swt) forgive you.
2004-05-01
HUDD D'ALHAMD FROM CANADA said:
Jazakallahu khairan br Zinedine. May Allah shower you with His favours. A wonderful reply for those two caricatures, one with the name of a Nazi, Johannes and the other with the name of a computer virus, k2! I wrote them a response but the editors did not find it fit to be published. I don't blame them. I lost my temper. I just cannot take this garbage, the guilt of the Arabs. All our guilt is that we are the originators of Islam and that the last prophet came to the Arabs. The rest of the world can bite us! It happened, it's done, Allah in His wisdom chose the Arabs and an Arab prophet to mediate his last testimony to mankind! No need for anyone to be jelous. This is the way things are, to quote Nick Cameron.
Maasalamah, dear brother, Allah hafiz!
Maasalamah, dear brother, Allah hafiz!
2004-04-28
ZINEDINE FROM MOROCCO said:
Salaamu alaikum,
Arabs are just like any other nations;they rose to power when they were united & fell after they became divided.Arab bashing or Anti-Semitic attitude towards Arabs is trash language.K2 & Johannes, watch your mouths there is a bad smell of Anti-Semitism in your comments.I do understand your anger, I am angry too but at my brutal & puppet like leaders but unlike you too that seem to be angry at my helpless people.Let me tell you that the love of Jihad to achieve dignity in this life or martyrdom & heaven is in our blood but we are brutally repressed by our American hired dictators.When I was a university student, I was personally detained for a day three times in a Moroccan police station with at leat 1000 students bcs of a strike against our ZOG. Most Americans happen to be blinded by their sick patriotism & I feel really sorry for them but I hope that Jihad against their criminals overseas & in the US thru all forms of Jihad against their greed & against evil Isreali governments will help them differentiate between good & evil & restore lost Arabs dignity.Remember that most Arbas are heroes because they are not cowards like those Israeli & American soldiers that hide inside tanks & jumbo jets. Remember that most of our militant democrats & Islamists are behind bars in the so called Muslim countries. They are tortured daily with the assistance of the American, British, French & Isreali governments. Remember that we are Muslims & that our target are evil forces such as the US "Christians fondamentalists" & Zionists & those Pro-Zionists suckers.Jesus & Moses (pbut) would inevitably curse them if they were physically present in our modern times. Remember that we Muslims should not hate good Jews, good Christians or any good human being & we shouldn't judge people on the basis of their race,color or nationality.We jugde people on the basis of their deeds & actions.
Btw:Remember that Arab peoples are not a homogenous nation.GoodcommentsHuddD'Alhamd
Arabs are just like any other nations;they rose to power when they were united & fell after they became divided.Arab bashing or Anti-Semitic attitude towards Arabs is trash language.K2 & Johannes, watch your mouths there is a bad smell of Anti-Semitism in your comments.I do understand your anger, I am angry too but at my brutal & puppet like leaders but unlike you too that seem to be angry at my helpless people.Let me tell you that the love of Jihad to achieve dignity in this life or martyrdom & heaven is in our blood but we are brutally repressed by our American hired dictators.When I was a university student, I was personally detained for a day three times in a Moroccan police station with at leat 1000 students bcs of a strike against our ZOG. Most Americans happen to be blinded by their sick patriotism & I feel really sorry for them but I hope that Jihad against their criminals overseas & in the US thru all forms of Jihad against their greed & against evil Isreali governments will help them differentiate between good & evil & restore lost Arabs dignity.Remember that most Arbas are heroes because they are not cowards like those Israeli & American soldiers that hide inside tanks & jumbo jets. Remember that most of our militant democrats & Islamists are behind bars in the so called Muslim countries. They are tortured daily with the assistance of the American, British, French & Isreali governments. Remember that we are Muslims & that our target are evil forces such as the US "Christians fondamentalists" & Zionists & those Pro-Zionists suckers.Jesus & Moses (pbut) would inevitably curse them if they were physically present in our modern times. Remember that we Muslims should not hate good Jews, good Christians or any good human being & we shouldn't judge people on the basis of their race,color or nationality.We jugde people on the basis of their deeds & actions.
Btw:Remember that Arab peoples are not a homogenous nation.GoodcommentsHuddD'Alhamd
2004-04-27
ZINEDINE FROM MOROCCO said:
Invasion of Algiers
Using Napoleon's 1808 contingency plan for the invasion of Algeria, 34,000 French soldiers landed twenty-seven kilometers west of Algiers, at Sidi Ferruch, on June 12, 1830. To face the French, the dey sent 7,000 janissaries, 19,000 troops from the beys of Constantine and Oran, and about 17,000 Kabyles. The French established a strong beachhead and pushed toward Algiers, thanks in part to superior artillery and better organization. Algiers was captured after a three-week campaign, and Hussein Dey fled into exile. French troops raped, looted (taking 50 million francs from the treasury in the Casbah), desecrated mosques, and destroyed cemeteries. It was an inauspicious beginning to France's self-described "civilizing mission," whose character on the whole was cynical, arrogant, and cruel.
The French in Algiers viewed with concern the success of a Muslim government and the rapid growth of a viable territorial state that barred the extension of European settlement. Abd al Qadir fought running battles across Algeria with French forces, which included units of the Foreign Legion, organized in 1831 for Algerian service. Although his forces were defeated by the French under General Thomas Bugeaud in 1836, Abd al Qadir negotiated a favorable peace treaty the next year. The treaty gained conditional recognition for Abd al Qadir's regime by defining the territory under its control and salvaged his prestige among the tribes just as the shaykhs were about to desert him. To provoke new hostilities, the French deliberately broke the treaty in 1839 by occupying Constantine. Abd al Qadir took up the holy war again, destroyed the French settlements on the Mitidja Plain, and at one point advanced to the outskirts of Algiers itself. He struck where the French were weakest and retreated when they advanced against him in greater strength. The government moved from camp to camp with the amir and his army. Gradually, however, superior French resources and manpow
Using Napoleon's 1808 contingency plan for the invasion of Algeria, 34,000 French soldiers landed twenty-seven kilometers west of Algiers, at Sidi Ferruch, on June 12, 1830. To face the French, the dey sent 7,000 janissaries, 19,000 troops from the beys of Constantine and Oran, and about 17,000 Kabyles. The French established a strong beachhead and pushed toward Algiers, thanks in part to superior artillery and better organization. Algiers was captured after a three-week campaign, and Hussein Dey fled into exile. French troops raped, looted (taking 50 million francs from the treasury in the Casbah), desecrated mosques, and destroyed cemeteries. It was an inauspicious beginning to France's self-described "civilizing mission," whose character on the whole was cynical, arrogant, and cruel.
The French in Algiers viewed with concern the success of a Muslim government and the rapid growth of a viable territorial state that barred the extension of European settlement. Abd al Qadir fought running battles across Algeria with French forces, which included units of the Foreign Legion, organized in 1831 for Algerian service. Although his forces were defeated by the French under General Thomas Bugeaud in 1836, Abd al Qadir negotiated a favorable peace treaty the next year. The treaty gained conditional recognition for Abd al Qadir's regime by defining the territory under its control and salvaged his prestige among the tribes just as the shaykhs were about to desert him. To provoke new hostilities, the French deliberately broke the treaty in 1839 by occupying Constantine. Abd al Qadir took up the holy war again, destroyed the French settlements on the Mitidja Plain, and at one point advanced to the outskirts of Algiers itself. He struck where the French were weakest and retreated when they advanced against him in greater strength. The government moved from camp to camp with the amir and his army. Gradually, however, superior French resources and manpow
2004-04-26
ABDUL AZEEZ FROM USA said:
Ariel Sharon- Jewish Leader, He is doing everything what he is supposed to do.((Kill muslims and wipe out Islam))
George W. Bush - Chirstian Leader, He is doing everything what he is supposed to do.(Kill muslims and wipe out Islam).
> - , Anyone is doing anything what we are supposed to do? NOOOO.
Do muslims have anyone to represent Islam and protect Islam and Muslims???? NO, NOT AT ALL.
We are growing big in numbers and we are happy to say that "Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world". But what is the use? There is no one to guide us, lead us.
Our beloved Prophet Mohammed(Peace and blessings of Allah be upon Him, His family and his companians) has changed the whole world 1400 years ago. We can not expect him to come back. We should realize this. Its time for the UMMAH to establish Islam and bring back the honor again. We can not expect this from "Arab Leaders".
These Arab Leaders are worse than Abu-Jahl, Abu-Lahab and other Qurash leaders who tried to kill Rasoolullah (SAS).
George W. Bush - Chirstian Leader, He is doing everything what he is supposed to do.(Kill muslims and wipe out Islam).
> - , Anyone is doing anything what we are supposed to do? NOOOO.
Do muslims have anyone to represent Islam and protect Islam and Muslims???? NO, NOT AT ALL.
We are growing big in numbers and we are happy to say that "Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world". But what is the use? There is no one to guide us, lead us.
Our beloved Prophet Mohammed(Peace and blessings of Allah be upon Him, His family and his companians) has changed the whole world 1400 years ago. We can not expect him to come back. We should realize this. Its time for the UMMAH to establish Islam and bring back the honor again. We can not expect this from "Arab Leaders".
These Arab Leaders are worse than Abu-Jahl, Abu-Lahab and other Qurash leaders who tried to kill Rasoolullah (SAS).
2004-04-26
JOHANNES FROM STANKONIA said:
salaams.
hudd d'almamd, k2 was making an observation, one that isnt that far off. the entire muslim world is suffering because we've left the deen as it were. this ofcourse being the casual response by a traditional muslim who follows the qur'aan and sunnah. i.e moi. i've demonstrated this intellectual lapse throughout my time here, much to the dismay of secularists, non-believers and the like who attribute the muslim world's decline to other conventional causes. which brings us to k2. the chap isnt that far off, arabs on the whole have indeed left the deen, lets not deny it, it is commonly accepted. nationalism, suicide bombings etc - widely accepted in the arab world - and not so in the entire muslim community. and dont take this as a westerners testimony, a friend of mine - an african american muslim in saudi arabia was asked quite casually by a man filling up his luxury sedan's gas tank at a petrol station if someone OWNED him authubillah.
k2 wasnt being anti-semetic, nor racist, nor mean .. just voicing an opinion many people share. the 'muslim world' is very embarrassed by arabs - wallahi, i find myself asking how could the race of the prophet (saws) be reduced to this. i remember watching arabs dancing in the streets in detroit after marines destroyed the saddam statue - not shedding any tears for the tyrant ofcourse, he will get whats coming to him .. just the thought of muslims rejoicing while a christian military machine hacks their people to pieces with exocet and stinger missiles, the sheer lunacy of it all!
hudd d'almamd, k2 was making an observation, one that isnt that far off. the entire muslim world is suffering because we've left the deen as it were. this ofcourse being the casual response by a traditional muslim who follows the qur'aan and sunnah. i.e moi. i've demonstrated this intellectual lapse throughout my time here, much to the dismay of secularists, non-believers and the like who attribute the muslim world's decline to other conventional causes. which brings us to k2. the chap isnt that far off, arabs on the whole have indeed left the deen, lets not deny it, it is commonly accepted. nationalism, suicide bombings etc - widely accepted in the arab world - and not so in the entire muslim community. and dont take this as a westerners testimony, a friend of mine - an african american muslim in saudi arabia was asked quite casually by a man filling up his luxury sedan's gas tank at a petrol station if someone OWNED him authubillah.
k2 wasnt being anti-semetic, nor racist, nor mean .. just voicing an opinion many people share. the 'muslim world' is very embarrassed by arabs - wallahi, i find myself asking how could the race of the prophet (saws) be reduced to this. i remember watching arabs dancing in the streets in detroit after marines destroyed the saddam statue - not shedding any tears for the tyrant ofcourse, he will get whats coming to him .. just the thought of muslims rejoicing while a christian military machine hacks their people to pieces with exocet and stinger missiles, the sheer lunacy of it all!
2004-04-26
MARK FROM USA said:
To support Brad's excellent comments I offer the following: The US went into Somalia for one purpose - to help starving people. Then the attacks started, culminating with the "Blackhawk Down" events which killed 19 soldiers. Do any of us think the US then pulled out because we were unable to attain the goal? No, it was because many American's felt "if they don't want our help, then screw them". Today Somalia is still a basket case. It had it's chance for stability and blew it. It's society was too immature to realize it was being presented a great opportunity.
I hope the vast majority of Iraqis are more sophisticated and mature, and will put a stop to the attacks on the coalition. We will stick around longer than in Somalia because our strategic interests are much greater in Iraq. But what a tragedy it will be if, ten years from now, we see Iraq still convulsing with violence due to a premature coalition departure.
I hope the vast majority of Iraqis are more sophisticated and mature, and will put a stop to the attacks on the coalition. We will stick around longer than in Somalia because our strategic interests are much greater in Iraq. But what a tragedy it will be if, ten years from now, we see Iraq still convulsing with violence due to a premature coalition departure.
2004-04-26
BNAK said:
Mr.Gary Harber:
You said: "I think George Bush is doing what should have been done long ago."
I indeed agree with you on this, because atleast millions of children who died under 12 years sanctions and countless other civilians who were also killed, their lives could have been saved, if what is happening now would have happened then.
If your way of bringing so called democracy (btw, many here do not dispute the fact that democracy is an oxymoron and there is no such thing as true democracy) is through the barrels of guns and 1000 lbs bombs, then please keep your democracy to yourself, and leave the Iraqis alone.
Thanks to the US Army and their inhuman and atrocious policies, many Iraqis now beleive that they were better off under Saddam. Imagine the plight of the poor Iraqis who reeled under 12 years of cruel sanctions, after a bloody and unnecessary war that killed thousands, and then you come and bombed them to stone age once again under the false pretext of non-existent WMDs and now you say, you are bringing democracy? Shame on you!
Indeed Jesus Christ (PBUH) taught Universal Love, so, is this what your army brought to the poor Iraqis, Is your way of preaching universal love, by dropping cluster bombs killing thousands and maiming countless number of children and innocent people? Is this what you learnt from the great Prophet Jesus (PBUH) and his message of UNiversal love? Shame on you for you do things under his holy name.
Indeed we will pray to the One and Only Lord, Lord of the Worlds, Allah. Indeed we submit to Him, not to your cruel armies. Indeed His Judgement will come soon InshaAllah and indeed He and those who submit to Him will prevail, then will you realize, who's force is greater. Be proud and walk tall in arrogance, His Judgement will come soon and then you shall see, how the arrogant and proud heads are crushed. We shall all see InshaAllah!
You said: "I think George Bush is doing what should have been done long ago."
I indeed agree with you on this, because atleast millions of children who died under 12 years sanctions and countless other civilians who were also killed, their lives could have been saved, if what is happening now would have happened then.
If your way of bringing so called democracy (btw, many here do not dispute the fact that democracy is an oxymoron and there is no such thing as true democracy) is through the barrels of guns and 1000 lbs bombs, then please keep your democracy to yourself, and leave the Iraqis alone.
Thanks to the US Army and their inhuman and atrocious policies, many Iraqis now beleive that they were better off under Saddam. Imagine the plight of the poor Iraqis who reeled under 12 years of cruel sanctions, after a bloody and unnecessary war that killed thousands, and then you come and bombed them to stone age once again under the false pretext of non-existent WMDs and now you say, you are bringing democracy? Shame on you!
Indeed Jesus Christ (PBUH) taught Universal Love, so, is this what your army brought to the poor Iraqis, Is your way of preaching universal love, by dropping cluster bombs killing thousands and maiming countless number of children and innocent people? Is this what you learnt from the great Prophet Jesus (PBUH) and his message of UNiversal love? Shame on you for you do things under his holy name.
Indeed we will pray to the One and Only Lord, Lord of the Worlds, Allah. Indeed we submit to Him, not to your cruel armies. Indeed His Judgement will come soon InshaAllah and indeed He and those who submit to Him will prevail, then will you realize, who's force is greater. Be proud and walk tall in arrogance, His Judgement will come soon and then you shall see, how the arrogant and proud heads are crushed. We shall all see InshaAllah!
2004-04-26
HUDD D'ALHAMD FROM CANADA said:
Shame on you K2. Listen to yourself:"Arabs are Arabs first, before Muslim. That is why they are suffering, because they no longer obey the basic rules of Islam. They have returned to the tribal society of pre-Islam." I don't know what your origin is, but if you consider yourself a Muslim and your people the perfect Muslim society, I want to learn about them, because as it is, there is no Muslim country in the Arab world or in the non-Arab world that is free of criticism. But your remark is racist and anti-Semitic(the Arabs are Semites). And if you call yourself a Muslim, you just proved that you need to revise the fundamentals of this definition. Your next comment:"Therefore, they should not expect to be victorious until they turn to Allah and repent sincerely." There is such a thing called: "Test" from Allah,swt, and it is not in your knowledge Allah's plan with the Arabs unless you believe yourself to be a prophet. Muslims died in earth quakes or at the hands of the Mongols or British, you suggest that all those were lesser Muslims than yourself, since you are allowed to live? Or do you believe that the KKK are righteous, they are mainly well-off white guys that have a "crush" on non-whites! Do you think Allah loves Bush, Putin and Sharon? Are really stupid or you playing around? Your next comment:"Allah has said if a people turn away from him than maybe he will replace them with another people." Really, K2, and who will be that people the Americans, punk? Or your nation? Shame on you! You disgust me, you despicable racist low-life monkey! The Arab world and the Muslims in general are passing through great tribulations. We are not here to enjoy riches, Muslims look forward to Paradise. You missed a passage in the Quran: "Inna khalqn'al-insana fil qabad". Do me a favour, read more Quran, it is uplifting and enlightening. Perchance this old human spiritual desease, racism, would be eradicated from your morbid mind-set.
Salamtak!
Salamtak!
2004-04-25
ABDUL AZEEZ FROM USA said:
If this is American's war, then why should bloody Arab regimes supported Bush & Co openly and secrectly? Almost all the so called "Muslim Arab Nations" supported, aided Americans before, during and after the war. They are still supporting them. WHY?
It seems Saudi Arabia provided all logistical support including 3 air bases to launch air war, cheap oil worth millions of dollar. Prince Bandar-bin-sultan was consulted and he attended almost all the meetings with American who were plotting the war against Iraq? WHY?
We Muslims are stupid, fools and worth nothing in front of this super power. Everyone is cheating Muslims including all cruel Arab Nations. SHAME ON ARABS and Muslims who are abetting, aiding killing, cheating fellow muslims.
Allah(SWT) will definitely punish these so called "Muslims" before punishing the non-believer.
MUSLIMS, STOP BLAMING NON-MUSLIMS FOR EVERYTHING. NON-MUSLIMS WILL NEVER BE YOUR HELPER. THEY BELIEVE IN WIPING OUT ISLAM AND MUSLIM AND THEY WORK TOWARDS THEIR GOAL.
They are easily achieving their goal, because they get help from Muslims Nations. So before blaming Non-Muslims you blame Muslims.
I used to blame and curse non-believers for all the muslims suffering. Now i HATE all the Islamic Governments and their impotent leaders of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, UAE, SYRIA, .....
It seems Saudi Arabia provided all logistical support including 3 air bases to launch air war, cheap oil worth millions of dollar. Prince Bandar-bin-sultan was consulted and he attended almost all the meetings with American who were plotting the war against Iraq? WHY?
We Muslims are stupid, fools and worth nothing in front of this super power. Everyone is cheating Muslims including all cruel Arab Nations. SHAME ON ARABS and Muslims who are abetting, aiding killing, cheating fellow muslims.
Allah(SWT) will definitely punish these so called "Muslims" before punishing the non-believer.
MUSLIMS, STOP BLAMING NON-MUSLIMS FOR EVERYTHING. NON-MUSLIMS WILL NEVER BE YOUR HELPER. THEY BELIEVE IN WIPING OUT ISLAM AND MUSLIM AND THEY WORK TOWARDS THEIR GOAL.
They are easily achieving their goal, because they get help from Muslims Nations. So before blaming Non-Muslims you blame Muslims.
I used to blame and curse non-believers for all the muslims suffering. Now i HATE all the Islamic Governments and their impotent leaders of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, UAE, SYRIA, .....
2004-04-25
MARK FROM USA said:
Musa, thank you for your opinion. Please consider the following, however. The war in Iraq is not about oil. I submit that most Americans really don't care what happens in the Middle East (including between Israel and it's neighbors - thus the lack of US leadership in that conflict). We would much rather that that part of the world police it's own problems. What we do want, in this order is:
(1) to not be attacked. This war in Iraq would not have occurred were it not for Osama bin Laden. 9/11 turned the US government & public (even more?) aggressive, more willing to use our military, and the POSSIBILITY of WMD linking up with Al Q was all the justification many needed to support this war.
(2) a PROSPEROUS Middle East that will be a market to our products. Most Americans believe that democracy goes hand in hand with open markets, and thus that a democratic Iraq in the following decades would be more prosperous, and more likely to buy American products. (Most wars occur for economic reasons - to blame this on oil is shortsighted and, I believe, wrong. We don't need Iraq's oil.) Look at all the countries that border Iraq; if a free market economy and democracy can thrive in Iraq, it will be hard for Iraq's neighbors to stop their migration. A free and prosperous REGION is the real prize (though it probably cannot happen sooner than 2030-2050).
(3) we want somewhat of a lid to be kept on the regional violence - too much (e.g. Kuwait) and we feel compelled to intervene. The 1st Gulf War was also much more about oil than the 2nd - we do need Saudi oil.
Thank you for your open mind.
(1) to not be attacked. This war in Iraq would not have occurred were it not for Osama bin Laden. 9/11 turned the US government & public (even more?) aggressive, more willing to use our military, and the POSSIBILITY of WMD linking up with Al Q was all the justification many needed to support this war.
(2) a PROSPEROUS Middle East that will be a market to our products. Most Americans believe that democracy goes hand in hand with open markets, and thus that a democratic Iraq in the following decades would be more prosperous, and more likely to buy American products. (Most wars occur for economic reasons - to blame this on oil is shortsighted and, I believe, wrong. We don't need Iraq's oil.) Look at all the countries that border Iraq; if a free market economy and democracy can thrive in Iraq, it will be hard for Iraq's neighbors to stop their migration. A free and prosperous REGION is the real prize (though it probably cannot happen sooner than 2030-2050).
(3) we want somewhat of a lid to be kept on the regional violence - too much (e.g. Kuwait) and we feel compelled to intervene. The 1st Gulf War was also much more about oil than the 2nd - we do need Saudi oil.
Thank you for your open mind.
2004-04-25
BRAD WEAVER FROM USA said:
Your starting point was that it is unlikely that America invaded Iraq to create democracy. Yet that is exactly what all the effort has been for. Each attack, each death only makes it harder for America to believe Iraqi's are adult enough to deal with a democratic society.
Martin Luther King was a great man who fought against something that ranks among the greatest evils mankind has ever been involved in, yet he knew his best weapon was to show that he was better than the violence used against him.
Why can Muslims not understand this? Do you know that when Iraq fell, the letters that were coming back from the soldiers talked of how wonderful it was to have helped destroy someone who had treated his people so badly? Do you know they were happy they could help to undo the damage Saddom had done?
Saddom, the man the Muslim world identified with to the point it was a blow to their pride when he surrendered instead of committing suicide?
What kind of a religion encourages reasoning humans to embrace suicide as a practical way out?
Now, instead of becoming part of a new, better and more prosperous Iraq, the people of Iraq have decided to fragment their once great nation and make America leave. When the Terrorists have killed enough innocent people or cravenly attacked from ambush enough soldiers who are trying to simply keep the peace, then we will leave. Not because of the 'mighty' Iraqi's, but because of the disgust we feel for a people who do not even know how to try for peace, they only know how to destroy what is different.
You might claim that America is the same, yet everything we have done there is to promote a government impartial to religion. One that does not force anyone to wear a veil if they do not want to.
In the end, I am sorry that I myself cannot do anything to help. Yet if I did come to Iraq and try to help myself (as well as the Iraqi's) to understand how to create peace (and then act on that understanding) I would be kille
Martin Luther King was a great man who fought against something that ranks among the greatest evils mankind has ever been involved in, yet he knew his best weapon was to show that he was better than the violence used against him.
Why can Muslims not understand this? Do you know that when Iraq fell, the letters that were coming back from the soldiers talked of how wonderful it was to have helped destroy someone who had treated his people so badly? Do you know they were happy they could help to undo the damage Saddom had done?
Saddom, the man the Muslim world identified with to the point it was a blow to their pride when he surrendered instead of committing suicide?
What kind of a religion encourages reasoning humans to embrace suicide as a practical way out?
Now, instead of becoming part of a new, better and more prosperous Iraq, the people of Iraq have decided to fragment their once great nation and make America leave. When the Terrorists have killed enough innocent people or cravenly attacked from ambush enough soldiers who are trying to simply keep the peace, then we will leave. Not because of the 'mighty' Iraqi's, but because of the disgust we feel for a people who do not even know how to try for peace, they only know how to destroy what is different.
You might claim that America is the same, yet everything we have done there is to promote a government impartial to religion. One that does not force anyone to wear a veil if they do not want to.
In the end, I am sorry that I myself cannot do anything to help. Yet if I did come to Iraq and try to help myself (as well as the Iraqi's) to understand how to create peace (and then act on that understanding) I would be kille
2004-04-25
ABDUL KHAN FROM USA said:
Dear brother :
At the time of karbala incident in 7th century, Hazrath Hussain was matyred by some muslim group ? > we dont know they belonged to any particular sect -There were no shias / sunni . Please do not complicate or make muslim sects. We should call ourselves as a just MUSLIM and get united. Leave the minor differences. We believe in one GOD - ALLAH And all his messengers till the last PROPHET(pbuh).
At the time of karbala incident in 7th century, Hazrath Hussain was matyred by some muslim group ? > we dont know they belonged to any particular sect -There were no shias / sunni . Please do not complicate or make muslim sects. We should call ourselves as a just MUSLIM and get united. Leave the minor differences. We believe in one GOD - ALLAH And all his messengers till the last PROPHET(pbuh).
2004-04-25
MARK FROM USA said:
Abdullah Hakim - your comments are the most refreshing and on target that I've ever read on this website!!! Thank Allah for your insight. If the US were to pull out of Iraq now, the violence we've seen in the past year will pale in comparison to the bloodshed resulting from Iraqis (with plenty of support from neighboring countries) battling each other for control. Many of those now railing against the coalition occupation will again be cursing the US, but this time for leaving.
2004-04-25
KHALID HASHEM FROM USA said:
now, i am only 15 years old so correct me if im wrong, you talk about the arabs uniting in a fight against america, fighting for freedom, i totaly understand it, but what happens after the defeet, you have 3 different nationalities in iraq, people who range from extreme radical to moderate conservative, and the lines are practically drawn out. now, im not for the occupation of iraq, but should we not give the americans a chance until the set date is done, and if there not out.. then rebel? See its hard to say this without actually living there, you never understand what truly is goin on unless you live there. I practically only see american media.. very little satelite, like al jazeera which is hard for me to understand completely. But in past history when nationalities live under one roof, they break away and make there own state. note Czechoslovakia, Soviet Union, Yugoslavia, and colonies owned by europeans who gained there freedom in the early 20th century, reply back to me, so i can better understand what you believe will happen to iraq, if the u.s.a doesnt stay in iraq.
2004-04-25
MUSA FROM USA said:
Do not forget that this war are for Israel and Oil. Forget about democracy, education, women rights etc. People in Iraq and American service man and woman are dying for Ariel Sharon and oil masters.
2004-04-25
KHALID RAHIM FROM CANADA said:
Why did it take the Americans over two decades to
help the Iraqis gain freedom of expression? Now that they have gained it and want to express the
very feelings that had been suppressed,is being now felt as rebellion against the America's new doctrine for the Iraqis.
help the Iraqis gain freedom of expression? Now that they have gained it and want to express the
very feelings that had been suppressed,is being now felt as rebellion against the America's new doctrine for the Iraqis.
2004-04-25
TIM B. FROM USA said:
Too often perfectionism is used as a standard to judge an issue and the subject of Iraq is a good example. No one is stating that Bush is perfect. A war was fought in Iraq and people get killed and wounded and property is destroyed. The US went into Iraq to remove Saddam Hussein from power because he was a great threat to the US due to his collaborations with terrorist organizations. That was the main reason.
Saddam Hussein was a cruel despot and Iraq has unearthed the mass graves of hundreds of thousands of Iraqis killed by their great Muslim leader. Now I will admit that the Quran didn't authorize Saddam to do what he did but where were all these freedom fighters when Saddam's killing machine was in full force? Where were all these Muslim freedom fighters fighting Saddam's evil? Where were the Arab freedom fighters fighting to bring justice to the people of Iraq?
And Fallujah? Where were these brave fighters during Saddam's regime? The US and its Allies are in the process of returning control of Iraq back to the Iraqis. Now these "brave" freedom fighters decide to attack civilians and kill and mutilate their bodies--Hey, I'm not impressed! They wage a war for their freedom from the evil Americans who were already in the process of handing power back to the Iraqis. What a brilliant move! Then the reports say that their leaders stay close to the mosque and use children as human shields. How brave!
If these are an example of the wonderful world we will experience once Islam triumphs throughout the world then we are all in trouble!
Saddam Hussein was a cruel despot and Iraq has unearthed the mass graves of hundreds of thousands of Iraqis killed by their great Muslim leader. Now I will admit that the Quran didn't authorize Saddam to do what he did but where were all these freedom fighters when Saddam's killing machine was in full force? Where were all these Muslim freedom fighters fighting Saddam's evil? Where were the Arab freedom fighters fighting to bring justice to the people of Iraq?
And Fallujah? Where were these brave fighters during Saddam's regime? The US and its Allies are in the process of returning control of Iraq back to the Iraqis. Now these "brave" freedom fighters decide to attack civilians and kill and mutilate their bodies--Hey, I'm not impressed! They wage a war for their freedom from the evil Americans who were already in the process of handing power back to the Iraqis. What a brilliant move! Then the reports say that their leaders stay close to the mosque and use children as human shields. How brave!
If these are an example of the wonderful world we will experience once Islam triumphs throughout the world then we are all in trouble!
2004-04-24
GARY HARBER FROM U.S.A. said:
I am a white guy from Los Angeles, California. I think George Bush is doing what should have been done long ago. Since his last press conference, I have come to realize that he is a man that has true vision.
I do not understand why Iraqis would doubt that the U.S. intends to set their country free. (Although I realize that my perspective hinders me in this.) We in the U.S. recognize that free people are happy people and it is in our best interests to spread democracy to as many people as possible.
If Islam means peaceful submission to Allah, then why do these Muslims not submit themselves peacefully.
Iraqis have killed more Iraqis than any other group.
Anyway, I look forward to more of these constuctive discussions, because words are better than fighting, unless fighting is necessary.
We in the U.S. must also remember that freedom is not free. It is paid for with blood and sacrifice.
We are all children of one God; my God and your Allah are the same great and good and unchanging.
Jesus Christ preached universal Love, and whether you believe in Him or not, the message of Love is the same for everyone.
Peace to you all.
Gary
I do not understand why Iraqis would doubt that the U.S. intends to set their country free. (Although I realize that my perspective hinders me in this.) We in the U.S. recognize that free people are happy people and it is in our best interests to spread democracy to as many people as possible.
If Islam means peaceful submission to Allah, then why do these Muslims not submit themselves peacefully.
Iraqis have killed more Iraqis than any other group.
Anyway, I look forward to more of these constuctive discussions, because words are better than fighting, unless fighting is necessary.
We in the U.S. must also remember that freedom is not free. It is paid for with blood and sacrifice.
We are all children of one God; my God and your Allah are the same great and good and unchanging.
Jesus Christ preached universal Love, and whether you believe in Him or not, the message of Love is the same for everyone.
Peace to you all.
Gary
2004-04-24
MICHAEL MUHAMMAD FROM UNITED STATES said:
Allahu-Akbar!
On this site you will find two letters that Imam
Farrakhan sent to President Bush.
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/article_56.shtml
Respectfully,
Muhammad, M.
On this site you will find two letters that Imam
Farrakhan sent to President Bush.
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/article_56.shtml
Respectfully,
Muhammad, M.
2004-04-24
NURAINI FROM MALAYSIA said:
At first I was sceptical, but I think the author has a very good point. Bush may, unintentionally, actually do a backhanded sort of good for us. He does not intend it, but it is true that being the highest civilisation in the world for many centuries has made us (especially Arabs who were in the centre of that civilisation) forget how to fight for the principles inherent in our religion. We have forgotten to fight for freedom of expression, for justice and respect, for equality and protection of women and children, the way they had to do in our Prophet's time. We, who are born to a religion of struggle (jihad), struggle very little, and even then, struggle to preserve erroneous traditions and spread hate, not to seek truth. So in the long term, maybe it is God's way of teaching us a lesson we have forgotten. If we learn quickly, He will insya-Allah make us rise again.
2004-04-24
ADEZ FROM TRINIDAD said:
i am a muslim from the caribbean and i think some muslims put culture above their religion and make it their law when it is sometimes wrong
2004-04-24
DILAWAR KHAN FROM USA said:
I am an American Muslim of Asian origin. I voted for Ralph Nader in the last election, but this time I am seriously thinking of voting for George Bush precisely for the reasons mentioned in this wonderful article. I can't stand to look at Bush's face. His whole personality is so repulsive and that ever-present-half-grin stupid look on his face reminds me of a joker in the circus. But he seems to be what the Doctor sitting up there has prescribed for Muslims. It is very rough now but Bush can galvanize Muslims in a way that no one else can. I think that it is critical for Muslims that he gets reelected.
2004-04-24
YAHYA BERGUM FROM USA said:
Wa'alaikum assalam. From Surah 60 ("That Which Examines"):
7. It may be that Allah will grant love (and friendship) between you and those whom ye (now) hold as enemies. For Allah has power (over all things); And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.
8. Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just.
9. Allah only forbids you, with regard to those who fight you for (your) Faith, and drive you out of your homes, and support (others) in driving you out, from turning to them (for friendship and protection). It is such as turn to them (in these circumstances), that do wrong.
The severity of driving people from their homes might perhaps be limited by the extent to which the offending party later enables victims to return to their homes, pays for repairs (or pays in other ways) or assists the victims to prosper thereafter - insha'Allah. Perhaps passages such as Quran 4:92 might (perhaps) support such sentiments - insha'Allah.
Beyond that, I suppose that Muslims might consider examining their circumstances for some indication of Allah's approval. That might perhaps be consistent with inviting others, as part of the call to prayer, to "come to success."
7. It may be that Allah will grant love (and friendship) between you and those whom ye (now) hold as enemies. For Allah has power (over all things); And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.
8. Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just.
9. Allah only forbids you, with regard to those who fight you for (your) Faith, and drive you out of your homes, and support (others) in driving you out, from turning to them (for friendship and protection). It is such as turn to them (in these circumstances), that do wrong.
The severity of driving people from their homes might perhaps be limited by the extent to which the offending party later enables victims to return to their homes, pays for repairs (or pays in other ways) or assists the victims to prosper thereafter - insha'Allah. Perhaps passages such as Quran 4:92 might (perhaps) support such sentiments - insha'Allah.
Beyond that, I suppose that Muslims might consider examining their circumstances for some indication of Allah's approval. That might perhaps be consistent with inviting others, as part of the call to prayer, to "come to success."
2004-04-24
AKBAR KHAN FROM CANADA said:
Assalaamu'Alaiyku respected brothers and sisters in Islam, and to the people of the book who believe in the one true God (Allah or Elahi/Allaha in Aramaic). I wanted to share some important information with those who use their intellect. Posted below you will find the plans in the Hebrew language magazine of the World Zionist Organization, with this article published in 1982...and get shocked, Wassalaam.
In 1982 the Hebrew-language magazine Kivunim (Directions), the official organ of the World Zionist Organization published an important article entitled, "A Strategy for Israel in the Nineteen Eighties". The Editor of Kivunim is Yoram Beck, Head of Publications, Department of Information, of the World Zionist Organization. Also on the Editorial Committee of Kivunim is Amnon Hadary, a member of the Palmach during the 1948 atrocities.
Israel Shahak, professor of organic chemistry at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and chairman of the Israeli League for Human and Civil Rights translated the article into English and wrote athe following foreword to it. It was published in 1982 as a pamphlet by the Association of Arab-American University graduates. Professor Shahak states:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following essay represents, in my opinion, the accurate and detailed plan of the present Zionist regime for the Middle East which is based on the division of the whole area into small states, and the dissolution of all the existing Arab states. I will comment on the military aspect of this plan in a concluding note. Here I want to draw the attention of the readers to several important points:
1 . The idea that all the Arab states should be broken down, by Israel, into small units, occurs again and again in Israeli strategic thinking.
(Continued)
In 1982 the Hebrew-language magazine Kivunim (Directions), the official organ of the World Zionist Organization published an important article entitled, "A Strategy for Israel in the Nineteen Eighties". The Editor of Kivunim is Yoram Beck, Head of Publications, Department of Information, of the World Zionist Organization. Also on the Editorial Committee of Kivunim is Amnon Hadary, a member of the Palmach during the 1948 atrocities.
Israel Shahak, professor of organic chemistry at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, and chairman of the Israeli League for Human and Civil Rights translated the article into English and wrote athe following foreword to it. It was published in 1982 as a pamphlet by the Association of Arab-American University graduates. Professor Shahak states:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following essay represents, in my opinion, the accurate and detailed plan of the present Zionist regime for the Middle East which is based on the division of the whole area into small states, and the dissolution of all the existing Arab states. I will comment on the military aspect of this plan in a concluding note. Here I want to draw the attention of the readers to several important points:
1 . The idea that all the Arab states should be broken down, by Israel, into small units, occurs again and again in Israeli strategic thinking.
(Continued)
2004-04-24
HUDD D'ALHAMD FROM CANADA said:
Thank you br Zinedine. There is some confusion with my name though. It is Arabic, but of a different meaning. It is the fault of the English language for not having enough sounds and letters to render correctly the Arabic script. If I spell it, you will see. Hudd, H like in Hamd not Huda, U=fat-ha, and D=dal mushadd(with shadda). The name is from the Bawabatul Hudd(the gate of Hudd) in Palestine, where Isa al-Masih,pbuh, will kill Dajjal. Therefore, Hudd means, limit, prevention, arrest. D'Alhamd= Du al-Hamd (Du, or Zu, D=thal), in fact has a very close meaning to Muhammad, Mahmoud, Ahmad or Hameed. D'Alhamd, the one that has/possesses hamd/praise. I admit the name is unusual. My background is very varied, that makes me feel strongly Muslim more than a certain national. My paternal grandparents were Arab Palestinian and Ottoman Janissary. My maternal grandparents Crimean Tatar and Hanseatic German. According to the genes I am 25% Arab, 25% Turkish, 25%Mongol, and 25% Aryan. According to Islamic tradition I am an Arab Palestinian, since nationality is on the father's line. I grew up in South Africa and English is my first language. This makes me an Anglo-Muslim. Canadian Muslim now, alhamdulillah. Arabic is a scholastic language for me, not a spoken one, unfortunately.
You have a beautiful name too. Let me see if I get it right. Zine=Zain=Beauty, Dine=Deen=Way(religion), so I guess it means=Beautiful Way(religion) or The Beauty of the Way(religion). But again without the original Arabic script I might err.
Alhamdulillah for this site where we can share knowledge and information in our pursuit for personal endeavourment.
Only if the Kurds would get confident in the Arabs and feel secure in a future Iraq, then US will have to really get out of Iraq. As it is now, the US is retaliating by installing in the Iraqi administration the old Baathists of Sadam. It makes you really wonder, were they after the regime or just a personal brawl with Sadam?!
Maasalamah!
You have a beautiful name too. Let me see if I get it right. Zine=Zain=Beauty, Dine=Deen=Way(religion), so I guess it means=Beautiful Way(religion) or The Beauty of the Way(religion). But again without the original Arabic script I might err.
Alhamdulillah for this site where we can share knowledge and information in our pursuit for personal endeavourment.
Only if the Kurds would get confident in the Arabs and feel secure in a future Iraq, then US will have to really get out of Iraq. As it is now, the US is retaliating by installing in the Iraqi administration the old Baathists of Sadam. It makes you really wonder, were they after the regime or just a personal brawl with Sadam?!
Maasalamah!
2004-04-23
K2 FROM USA said:
Arabs are Arabs first, before Muslim. That is why they are suffering, because they no longer obey the basic rules of Islam. They have returned to the tribal society of pre-Islam.
Therefore, they should not expect to be victorious until they turn to Allah and repent sincerely.
Allah has said if a people turn away from him than maybe he will replace them with another people.
Therefore, they should not expect to be victorious until they turn to Allah and repent sincerely.
Allah has said if a people turn away from him than maybe he will replace them with another people.
2004-04-23
ZINEDINE FROM MOROCCO said:
Salaamu alaikum brothers & sisters,
To brother Hudd D'Alhamd,
Jazaka Allahu khairan for your nice & wise comments. The man to blame for perverting Islam & causing so much discord within the Muslim community is Muawiyya Bnu Abi Soofiane (Attaleek) and his son Yazeed. He is the man that used this terms Sunna (Qur'anic word) & Jama'a vs. Shia (Qu'ranic word too) in a political & a military game to steal Khilafa from Ali . He is the first shrewd political Muslim leader in world history to devise a salary for his army in Syria (the Heartland of Banu Ummayya). He build his arsenal for twenty years in Syria before starting a rebellion against Imaam Ali (KAW) that led to the Battles of Siffeen & Alajamal (the Camel). It's a long story that started with the death of the prophet Muhammad & has not ended yet. Read Nahjul Albalagha to get a glimpse on Islam's early history. You can read my past comments on this issue as well.
The bottom line is that Shia Zaydia & Shia Ithna Ashria are religiously Sunnis as well because they follow the Sunna of the prophet as interpreted to them thru their master Imam Jaafar Sadiq (one of the descendants of Imaam Ali). Just because they don't follow the traditions established by the corrupt Amayiyeen & Abbasiyeen that perverted many hadiths, it doesn't mean that they are not Sunnis. Trust me they are Sunnis just like we are!!! Politically, there is a big debate in intelectual circles about who is the legitimate Khalifah after the Prophet (pbuh) Ali or Abu Bakr? That is really what divides Sunnis from Shia otherwise the rest remains a religious game between Saudi Arabia & Iran to divert the Muslim from the real issue that the Ummah has to face & deal with.
To brother Hudd D'Alhamd,
Jazaka Allahu khairan for your nice & wise comments. The man to blame for perverting Islam & causing so much discord within the Muslim community is Muawiyya Bnu Abi Soofiane (Attaleek) and his son Yazeed. He is the man that used this terms Sunna (Qur'anic word) & Jama'a vs. Shia (Qu'ranic word too) in a political & a military game to steal Khilafa from Ali . He is the first shrewd political Muslim leader in world history to devise a salary for his army in Syria (the Heartland of Banu Ummayya). He build his arsenal for twenty years in Syria before starting a rebellion against Imaam Ali (KAW) that led to the Battles of Siffeen & Alajamal (the Camel). It's a long story that started with the death of the prophet Muhammad & has not ended yet. Read Nahjul Albalagha to get a glimpse on Islam's early history. You can read my past comments on this issue as well.
The bottom line is that Shia Zaydia & Shia Ithna Ashria are religiously Sunnis as well because they follow the Sunna of the prophet as interpreted to them thru their master Imam Jaafar Sadiq (one of the descendants of Imaam Ali). Just because they don't follow the traditions established by the corrupt Amayiyeen & Abbasiyeen that perverted many hadiths, it doesn't mean that they are not Sunnis. Trust me they are Sunnis just like we are!!! Politically, there is a big debate in intelectual circles about who is the legitimate Khalifah after the Prophet (pbuh) Ali or Abu Bakr? That is really what divides Sunnis from Shia otherwise the rest remains a religious game between Saudi Arabia & Iran to divert the Muslim from the real issue that the Ummah has to face & deal with.
2004-04-23
NICK CAMERON FROM UNITED STATES OF AMERICA said:
Well Zinedine, it seems that you still seek to provoke a fight with me. Fortunately, I dismiss your provocations entirely. Nothing you can say to me can convince me that any alleged French atrocities in Algeria is consistent with Christianity.
As far as calling myself "the Dajjal", I see that the subtleties of sarcasm are lost on you. So allow me to educate you about such things by telling you that I was mocking those Muslims here that claim that evil and such, hence my use of the quotes on the nickname.
Ultimately, your attempts to simultaneously spread hatred and slander against Christianity Christianity and hypocritically accuse me of bigotry have failed. As I always say, the behavior of bigots reveal more about the bigots themselves than those whom they attack.
May my Almighty God forgive you for your transgressions.
As far as calling myself "the Dajjal", I see that the subtleties of sarcasm are lost on you. So allow me to educate you about such things by telling you that I was mocking those Muslims here that claim that evil and such, hence my use of the quotes on the nickname.
Ultimately, your attempts to simultaneously spread hatred and slander against Christianity Christianity and hypocritically accuse me of bigotry have failed. As I always say, the behavior of bigots reveal more about the bigots themselves than those whom they attack.
May my Almighty God forgive you for your transgressions.
2004-04-23
FELIX PRIOR FROM USA said:
I am not a muslim. I am not for Pres. Bush either. I look on this as as opportunity for the people to run their own country. The soldiers wanted to get out of Iraq. If the people of Iraq would cooperate, everything would be restored and the US would get out. Why not cooperate?
2004-04-23
JUST WONDERING FROM USA said:
I don't know much about the Muslim religion, but I do know about living in a democratic country. I know that when freedom of speech incites riots or abuses the rights of others, action is taken here as well. I am not there, nor have I read the publishing of the newspaper that was shut down, however we are told here that the articles were inciting violence. It is one thing to take a stand and publish your views, quite another to tell others to take arms against someone, to cause harm. Perhaps we are not told the truth here.
Most of these insurgents are not fighting for freedom. They are fighting for control. In America, there are no tribes or tribal lords or relgious sects that control cities and government. People are elected to voice the opinions of the majority in the area they preside over. Most of the people, remember I say most, live by the rulings of majority and the rulings of law. Whether they like or not. Sometimes individual rights are abused for the betterment of the whole. There is a saying, "You can make some of the people happy some of the time, but you can't make all the people happy all of the time." No one is telling people in Iraq that they can't pray, and that they can't live their spiritual lives in freedom, what the American troops over there are trying to install in them, is that they can't tell their fellow neighbour what to do either. Do as you will, as long as it doesn't infringe upon the rights of others.
I can't say I understand the religion, or what the people face on a day to day basis. I don't understand how after 30 years of suicide bombings, assasinations, war, and poverty, the people of the Middle East still do not understand that their methods simply will never work. Until they learn moderation, acceptance, and tolerance they will never find peace. And until the religious leaders of the Muslim world stand up against violence, the radicals will always think they are justified, and the Arab people will continue to suffe
Most of these insurgents are not fighting for freedom. They are fighting for control. In America, there are no tribes or tribal lords or relgious sects that control cities and government. People are elected to voice the opinions of the majority in the area they preside over. Most of the people, remember I say most, live by the rulings of majority and the rulings of law. Whether they like or not. Sometimes individual rights are abused for the betterment of the whole. There is a saying, "You can make some of the people happy some of the time, but you can't make all the people happy all of the time." No one is telling people in Iraq that they can't pray, and that they can't live their spiritual lives in freedom, what the American troops over there are trying to install in them, is that they can't tell their fellow neighbour what to do either. Do as you will, as long as it doesn't infringe upon the rights of others.
I can't say I understand the religion, or what the people face on a day to day basis. I don't understand how after 30 years of suicide bombings, assasinations, war, and poverty, the people of the Middle East still do not understand that their methods simply will never work. Until they learn moderation, acceptance, and tolerance they will never find peace. And until the religious leaders of the Muslim world stand up against violence, the radicals will always think they are justified, and the Arab people will continue to suffe
2004-04-23
JONATHAN PATTERSON FROM TEXAS, USA said:
The problem with Bush is congenital. He has inherited the worst of his father's and the worst of his mother's genes. You wonder why Bush is so utterly daft? The following is Mother Bush's comments in her March 18, 2003 interview with Diane Sawyer on ABC News, this is "the caring" Mrs. Bush. I am sure our servicemen and women would feel right proud eh? Makes you want to pewk.
.." why should we hear about body bags, and deaths, and how many, what day it's gonna happen, and how many this or what do you suppose? Or, I mean, it's, it's not relevant. So, why should I waste my beautiful mind on something like that. And watch him suffer".
http://www.underreported.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=1288&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0
.." why should we hear about body bags, and deaths, and how many, what day it's gonna happen, and how many this or what do you suppose? Or, I mean, it's, it's not relevant. So, why should I waste my beautiful mind on something like that. And watch him suffer".
http://www.underreported.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=1288&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0
2004-04-23
ZINEDINE FROM MOROCCO said:
Salaamu alaikum brother Hudd D'Alhamd,
What a beautiful Arabic name Hudd, a prophet name derived from the word huda meaning straight path & Alhamd meaning praise. And praise be to Allah for having you in this panel.
I read Nick comments, allegations, slander and defamation of my character. I decided to ignore him because I know many people will laugh at his allegations.
You claim to know French society more than I that is Moroccan, speaks French fluently, know European French and worked with the French.
Your claim that you're full of love & don't hate Islam & Muslims is a big lie especially when you named yourself Nick "the Dajjal" Cameron.
Like Hudd D'Alhamd said, we Muslims believe in actions not just words. The St Paulian version of Christianity is a joke but we have tolerate it in the Muslim World although we know that you Nick need to accept Islaam once you received the message if you want to be saved.
Proud to be Moroccan Muslim, grateful to Allah for being a Canadian citizen since 1994 & never visited the Beautiful Hore that is the United Snakes of America!!!
Jazaka Allahu Khairan for defending me!!!
What a beautiful Arabic name Hudd, a prophet name derived from the word huda meaning straight path & Alhamd meaning praise. And praise be to Allah for having you in this panel.
I read Nick comments, allegations, slander and defamation of my character. I decided to ignore him because I know many people will laugh at his allegations.
You claim to know French society more than I that is Moroccan, speaks French fluently, know European French and worked with the French.
Your claim that you're full of love & don't hate Islam & Muslims is a big lie especially when you named yourself Nick "the Dajjal" Cameron.
Like Hudd D'Alhamd said, we Muslims believe in actions not just words. The St Paulian version of Christianity is a joke but we have tolerate it in the Muslim World although we know that you Nick need to accept Islaam once you received the message if you want to be saved.
Proud to be Moroccan Muslim, grateful to Allah for being a Canadian citizen since 1994 & never visited the Beautiful Hore that is the United Snakes of America!!!
Jazaka Allahu Khairan for defending me!!!
2004-04-23
ZINEDINE FROM MOROCCO said:
Salaamu alaikum dear brothers & sisters,
Great article!!!
When posting your comments please use Allah words & his prophets sayings to support your statements. If you are not going to use evidence from the Qur'aan & Hadith then whatever you say may not sound Islaamic.
Here are some Qu'raanic verses that we Muslims should take very seriously when dealing with the leaders of Kufr & Orientalism to explain to them that we Muslims are neither kids nor retarded. We don't need them to represent us & we truly do not need their corrupt elite democracy that is highly unlikely what the Infidels plan to emulate. Rest assured that the Satanic forces will plan to establish other puppet dictatorships & regimes in the Muslim World as usual . What we Muslims truly need is to target our puppet leaders & provide good alternatives, build deadly weapons of mass destruction so that we can destroy our historical enemies when they invade us through Small Jihad & establish a civilised system of Shuracracy to govern ourselves.
"And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah's favour on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, ye became brethren; and ye were on the brink of the pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus doth Allah make His Signs clear to you: That ye may be guided." THE HOUSE OF IMRAN, Holy Qur'aan
"O ye who believe! take not the Jews and the Christians for your patrons : They are but protectors to each other. And he amongst you that turns to them (for leadership) is of them. Verily Allah guideth not a people unjust. " THE TABLE, Holy Qur'aan.
"O ye who believe! take not for patrons those who take your religion for a mockery or sport,- whether among those who received the Scripture before you, or among those who reject Faith; but fear ye Allah, if ye have faith (indeed)." THE TABLE, Holy Qur'aan.
Great article!!!
When posting your comments please use Allah words & his prophets sayings to support your statements. If you are not going to use evidence from the Qur'aan & Hadith then whatever you say may not sound Islaamic.
Here are some Qu'raanic verses that we Muslims should take very seriously when dealing with the leaders of Kufr & Orientalism to explain to them that we Muslims are neither kids nor retarded. We don't need them to represent us & we truly do not need their corrupt elite democracy that is highly unlikely what the Infidels plan to emulate. Rest assured that the Satanic forces will plan to establish other puppet dictatorships & regimes in the Muslim World as usual . What we Muslims truly need is to target our puppet leaders & provide good alternatives, build deadly weapons of mass destruction so that we can destroy our historical enemies when they invade us through Small Jihad & establish a civilised system of Shuracracy to govern ourselves.
"And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves; and remember with gratitude Allah's favour on you; for ye were enemies and He joined your hearts in love, so that by His Grace, ye became brethren; and ye were on the brink of the pit of Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus doth Allah make His Signs clear to you: That ye may be guided." THE HOUSE OF IMRAN, Holy Qur'aan
"O ye who believe! take not the Jews and the Christians for your patrons : They are but protectors to each other. And he amongst you that turns to them (for leadership) is of them. Verily Allah guideth not a people unjust. " THE TABLE, Holy Qur'aan.
"O ye who believe! take not for patrons those who take your religion for a mockery or sport,- whether among those who received the Scripture before you, or among those who reject Faith; but fear ye Allah, if ye have faith (indeed)." THE TABLE, Holy Qur'aan.
2004-04-23
ABDULLAH HAKIM said:
SALAAM. BISMILLAH. IT IS UNFORTUNATE THAT
NO ARAB EVER CRITICIZED SADDAM HUSSEIN'S 35 YEARS OF BRUTAL STALINIST RULE COMPLETE WITH MASS KILLINGS, RAPE CHAMBERS AND GASSING OF ETHNIC MINORITIES. YET AMERICA IS CRITICIZED FOR NOT BEING ABLE TO TURN IRAQ INTO ANOTHER GERMANY IN 6 MONTHS!!! THAT IS HOW STUPID THE ARAB ARGUMENT APPEARS TO BE. LET'S BE HONEST, THE INSURGENCY
BY EL-SADR'S MAHDI ARMY IS MEANT TO PRTECT AL-SADR FROM BEING ARRESTED FOR THE MURDER OF ANOTHER SHIA CLERIC AND IS NOTHING BUT A POWER GRAB. ON TOP OF THIS THERE IS INTERFERENCE FROM SYRIA AND IRAN, THE SAME TWO COUNTRIES THAT ARE INTERFERING IN THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT
AND FANNING THE INTIFADA. AMERICA DID NOT BARGAIN
FOR THE LIKES OF AL-SADR AND HIS CRIMINAL THUGS
DISRUPTING THE PLANNING PROCESS. IT'S TIME TO STOP BLAMING AMERICA BECAUSE OF THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF IRAQ THAT PREVENTS AMERICA FROM RAPIDLY
ESTABLISHING DEMOCRACY IN A HATE-FILLED NATION.
LETS GIVE AMERICA CREDIT FOR LIBERATING THE SHIAS FROM SADDAM'S OPPRESSION - AND NOW LOOK AT THE REWARD THE AMERICANS GET FOR THEIR TROUBLE!!
EVEN NOW, INDIA'S NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS ARE IN PROGRESS AND THERE ARE DISRUPTIVE ELEMENTS TRYING TO POISON THE ELECTIONS. THE LESSON IS:
THE ESTABLISHING AND MANAGING OF DEMOCRACY AND THE DEMOCRATIC PROCESS CAN BE DISRUPTED BY
ANTI-SOCIAL ELEMENTS LIKE AL-SADR. ITS TIME TO
CALL A SPADE A SPADE AND STOP BLAMING AMERICA FOR THE FAILURE OF SHIAS TO PUT AL-SADR IN HIS PLACE
EVEN THOUGH SENIOR CLERICS LIKE AYATOLLAH AL-SISTANI HAVE CONDEMNED AL-SADR'S TACTICS AS A POWER GRAB. BISMILLAH. AND GOD BLESS AMERICA
FOR SACRIFICING ITS HANDSOME BOYS SO THAT DEMOCRACY COMES TO THE LAND OF HASHASSINS.
NO ARAB EVER CRITICIZED SADDAM HUSSEIN'S 35 YEARS OF BRUTAL STALINIST RULE COMPLETE WITH MASS KILLINGS, RAPE CHAMBERS AND GASSING OF ETHNIC MINORITIES. YET AMERICA IS CRITICIZED FOR NOT BEING ABLE TO TURN IRAQ INTO ANOTHER GERMANY IN 6 MONTHS!!! THAT IS HOW STUPID THE ARAB ARGUMENT APPEARS TO BE. LET'S BE HONEST, THE INSURGENCY
BY EL-SADR'S MAHDI ARMY IS MEANT TO PRTECT AL-SADR FROM BEING ARRESTED FOR THE MURDER OF ANOTHER SHIA CLERIC AND IS NOTHING BUT A POWER GRAB. ON TOP OF THIS THERE IS INTERFERENCE FROM SYRIA AND IRAN, THE SAME TWO COUNTRIES THAT ARE INTERFERING IN THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT
AND FANNING THE INTIFADA. AMERICA DID NOT BARGAIN
FOR THE LIKES OF AL-SADR AND HIS CRIMINAL THUGS
DISRUPTING THE PLANNING PROCESS. IT'S TIME TO STOP BLAMING AMERICA BECAUSE OF THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF IRAQ THAT PREVENTS AMERICA FROM RAPIDLY
ESTABLISHING DEMOCRACY IN A HATE-FILLED NATION.
LETS GIVE AMERICA CREDIT FOR LIBERATING THE SHIAS FROM SADDAM'S OPPRESSION - AND NOW LOOK AT THE REWARD THE AMERICANS GET FOR THEIR TROUBLE!!
EVEN NOW, INDIA'S NATIONAL DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS ARE IN PROGRESS AND THERE ARE DISRUPTIVE ELEMENTS TRYING TO POISON THE ELECTIONS. THE LESSON IS:
THE ESTABLISHING AND MANAGING OF DEMOCRACY AND THE DEMOCRATIC PROCESS CAN BE DISRUPTED BY
ANTI-SOCIAL ELEMENTS LIKE AL-SADR. ITS TIME TO
CALL A SPADE A SPADE AND STOP BLAMING AMERICA FOR THE FAILURE OF SHIAS TO PUT AL-SADR IN HIS PLACE
EVEN THOUGH SENIOR CLERICS LIKE AYATOLLAH AL-SISTANI HAVE CONDEMNED AL-SADR'S TACTICS AS A POWER GRAB. BISMILLAH. AND GOD BLESS AMERICA
FOR SACRIFICING ITS HANDSOME BOYS SO THAT DEMOCRACY COMES TO THE LAND OF HASHASSINS.
2004-04-23
SANDY FROM USA said:
Sad, but true...and Allah knows best...sometimes the thing that may look bad to us on the surface becomes something that is actually to our benefit. Another event to strengthen our iman.
2004-04-23
HUDD D'ALHAMD FROM CANADA said:
As-Salamu alaykum, Mona Eltahawy. I totally agree with your article. I disagree though, with this part: "But unlike Karbala, where Sunnis killed Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein in a 7th century battle, Falluja will be remembered for bringing the two sects of Islam together in Iraq." It sounds bad and incriminating the Sunnis. I am a Sunni by definition and I don't feel responsible for Karbalah. At that time, begging your pardon, Mona, were only Muslims. Neither Sunnis nor Shiites! The denomination came afterwards. I don't know when exactly the Shia sect was established as a different entity from Sunni, with all the different traditions, but I believe much after the murder of Imam Hussayn. I am a Canadian Muslim and Shia or Sunni doesn't make too much sense to me. For me is just variation of the same Islam. I don't think also that Sunnis and Shiites should fight for their differences. If we all concentrate on what is common in the both sects, we'll have an everlasting peace! If my time for prayer is due, I will enter any mosque available and pray in the fashion they pray as long as the practice is islamic.
Overall the article is excellent, indeed the Iraqis must take control of their destiny, or otherwise others will do it for them, as Nick Cameron put it. I just pray the blood-shed to stop. Hate is the most distructive force on Earth. If one can't love, at least let live!
Maasalamah!
Overall the article is excellent, indeed the Iraqis must take control of their destiny, or otherwise others will do it for them, as Nick Cameron put it. I just pray the blood-shed to stop. Hate is the most distructive force on Earth. If one can't love, at least let live!
Maasalamah!
2004-04-23
AKBAR KHAN FROM CANADA said:
He brought it upon himself ok,...Cheney and Rumsfeld and Wolfowitz kept pulling on Bush's puppet strings so hard, making him dance like the monkey we know him to be today,with his ooo oo aa aaaaaaa aaaaaaaaaaaa's blurbs....
That's what you get when you appoint theives and mobsters into high positions of your government...well actually it's because Bush didn't have the mental capacity to fool the nation alone. Eeither way they still failed and continue to bring Allah's wrath upon themselves by making stupid PNAC's and IGC's and CPA's...and thinking that they can reserve the right to the oil of course, but ALSO to the mountains of gold recently discovered laying a few hundred metres below the Euphrates River. Last but not least, Iraq was the most technologically advanced arab nation, and was probably the most educated out of all arab-states, so they needed to cripple it, little by little (sanctions for 12 years), then bomb the countries capital to oblivion and other cities onwards - this last reason was simply for the security and superiority of Israel in the region).
Bush and his administration have been throwing disgusting threats against Iran recently...please keep an open eye because I feel as if this recent meeting with Sharon, and subsequent threats by the US gov. against Iran to dismantle its Nuclear program while Israel HAS 400 thermo-nuclear warheads, seems to me that... since the US army is strethed out so thin, they are either going to do one of two things soon, when they make the stupid decision of going to war with Iran:
1)Start forcing American men and women of eligible age to be called upon the army to serve
2)Israel will attack iran and establish a presence there.
And to those who think i'm out of my mind, you should never rule out the possibility of them doing this in the name of "freedom" and "democracy" seeing as most Muslim leaders are tyrants and sellouts right now.
That's what you get when you appoint theives and mobsters into high positions of your government...well actually it's because Bush didn't have the mental capacity to fool the nation alone. Eeither way they still failed and continue to bring Allah's wrath upon themselves by making stupid PNAC's and IGC's and CPA's...and thinking that they can reserve the right to the oil of course, but ALSO to the mountains of gold recently discovered laying a few hundred metres below the Euphrates River. Last but not least, Iraq was the most technologically advanced arab nation, and was probably the most educated out of all arab-states, so they needed to cripple it, little by little (sanctions for 12 years), then bomb the countries capital to oblivion and other cities onwards - this last reason was simply for the security and superiority of Israel in the region).
Bush and his administration have been throwing disgusting threats against Iran recently...please keep an open eye because I feel as if this recent meeting with Sharon, and subsequent threats by the US gov. against Iran to dismantle its Nuclear program while Israel HAS 400 thermo-nuclear warheads, seems to me that... since the US army is strethed out so thin, they are either going to do one of two things soon, when they make the stupid decision of going to war with Iran:
1)Start forcing American men and women of eligible age to be called upon the army to serve
2)Israel will attack iran and establish a presence there.
And to those who think i'm out of my mind, you should never rule out the possibility of them doing this in the name of "freedom" and "democracy" seeing as most Muslim leaders are tyrants and sellouts right now.
2004-04-23
YAHYA BERGUM FROM USA said:
I am grateful (to Allah) for the author's explanation of the recent absence of terrorism in Karbala. How might this relate to the recent bombings in Basra?
2004-04-23
