Cannot separate terrorism, religion

I am writing this in response to a letter by Aabeda Masra (Fence Post, Sept. 24) regarding the term “radical Islam.” Masra claims that the term vilifies Islam and is “inaccurate.” Masra also claims the acts of terrorists are motivated only by political reasons, not religious.

I have to disagree. What Masra does not acknowledge is the fact that in many countries in the Middle East, religion and politics/government are one and the same. Iran’s own name, in Arabic, is the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran is a theocracy, meaning a government ruled by religion.

Many other Middle East countries abide by Sharia (Islamic law), such as the former government of Afghanistan, the Taliban. One of the largest countries, Saudi Arabia, also strictly abides by Sharia. The motto on its state flag proclaims, “There is no god but God: Muhammad is the Messenger of God.” Religion is a massive part of the region and the driving force behind terrorists. That is made obvious as terrorists cry “Allahu akbar” (“God is great”) when executing “infidels” (non-Muslims) or those who help them.

I, as well as most Americans, am fully aware that there are millions of peaceful Muslims who live here and around the world. I am not writing this to condemn Islam as a whole. I am not saying that all, or even most, Muslims are violent or radical. I do not believe that Islam is a violent religion. However, you cannot simply cover your eyes and ignore what you don’t wish to see. Masra is right, that many Muslims around the world condemned the 9/11 attacks, but she is remiss to deny that many Muslims also boisterously celebrated in the streets at the news of innocent Americans being slaughtered.

Dan Woodall

Palatine