War is against militant Islam, not Islam itself

Submitted by Steve Singleton (United States), Oct 22, 2002 at 15:12

It is a huge mistake not to differentiate between militant, extremist Muslims and Islam, itself.

Any study of the Koran quickly reveals that militants and terrorists are usurping their own religion--using it for their own political goals. The Koran says (Surah 2:190): " Fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you, but begin not hostilities. Lo! Allah loveth not aggressors."

We need the support of moderate Muslims and Muslim nations in this fight against these radicals who not only threaten non-Muslims, but also moderate Muslims--especially secular nations such as Turkey, Egypt and others.

By insulting Islam and Muhammad, people like Falwell and Robertson are actually aiding and abetting our enemies--al Qaeda, Bin Laden and Saddam Hussein, who are replaying their rants to the Islamic world as proof that their fight is justified.

America stands for freedom (including freedom of religion) and tolerance. Bigotry against any ethnic or religous group is unAmerican. Alienating all Muslims against us by insulting the origin of one of the three great world religions is not only stupid, but dangerous. We do not need another crusade-era Holy War.

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