Middle East Terrorism

Why, after a period of relative tranquility in regards to the hostage situation and the emotional upheaval aimed at the U.S., did Israel decide to send its commandos to kidnap Sheikh Abdel Karim Obeid and other members of his family and to kill two of his neighbors? Why now with the promising harbingers of change in the Middle East such as the rapprochement with the Palestine Liberation Organization after its denouncement of terrorism and its recognition of Israel and the readiness of Iran’s newly elected government to engage in a dialogue with the West.

According to the Times report by Daniel Williams on Aug. 1, the Israeli officials argued that by abducting Obeid Israel was acting “for the good of Western nations.” Critical questions must be asked:

1. Why now? Why at a time when there has been a faint, flickering light of hope did Israel decide to extinguish it? Israeli officials claim that their battle with “terrorism” is many years old. This answer only makes the question more pertinent. Why now? Could there be a hidden Likud agenda which would benefit from an explosive situation in the Middle East with the people there depicted as bloodthirsty terrorists and the U.S. as the “Great Satan.”

2. Why did Israel boast about this operation contrary to its style, whether in assassinating Abu Jihad in Tunis or any similar operation? Could it be that this declaration was meant to instigate a predicted response followed by a calculated consequence?

3. Who assigned Israel the noble role of acting for “the good of Western nations”? Perhaps the Western nations had a more suitable way of working for their good.

The reaction of the American Administration depends on the answers to these questions. The historical demands of retaliation, the wicked yet subtle innuendoes against Islam and Muslims, the hailing of Israeli courage will lead us deeper into the void of hatred and destruction.

An urgent review of the American agenda in the Middle East that takes into account the grievances and aspirations of all parties (is needed). An even-handed approach to the Palestinian question without a predetermined bias; a call for an international consensus to suspend all military supplies to the area, whether in terms of funds, weapons, or technology until the bloodshed stops and human rights are guaranteed. The Koran says:

“Nor are they equal goodness and evil. Answer back with whichever is more graceful. So that he with whom you have enmity, would be as though he were an intimate friend” (41:38).

MAHER HATHOUT

Chairman, Executive Committee

Muslim Public Affairs Council

Los Angeles