Egypt-born and London-raised, Muslim journalist Mona Eltahawy says "The July 7 London bombings did it for me" and adds her voice to those of other moderate Muslims speaking out against jihadist terrorism.
I never bought the explanation that U.S. foreign policy had "brought on" the Sept. 11 attacks, and I certainly don't buy the idea that the Iraq war is behind the attacks in London. Many people across the world have opposed U.S. and British foreign policy, but that doesn't mean they are rushing to fly planes into buildings or to blow up buses and Underground trains in London.I was against the invasion of Iraq and would not have voted for George Bush if I were a U.S. citizen, but I'm done with the "George Bush made me do it" excuse. We must accept responsibility for this mess if we are ever to find a way out.
And for those non-Muslims who accept the George Bush excuse, I have a question: Do you think Muslims are incapable of accepting responsibility? It is at least in some way bigoted to think that Muslims can only react violently.
Tip via Athena at Terrorism Unveiled
Unfortunately, there are many voices of denial, like Osama Saeed, "a spokesman" for the Muslim Association of Britain.
By putting the onus on Muslims to defeat terror, the prime minister absolves himself of responsibility. Muslims are not in denial of our duties, but who are we meant to be combating? The security services had no idea about all that has gone on in London, so how are we as ordinary citizens to do better?It is not Muslims but Mr Blair who is in denial.
The war of ideas continues.
Posted by Alan at July 24, 2005 10:19 AM