And The Embassies Burned...

This is a prototypical antisemitic cartoon (Al-Hayat al-Jadida, 22 March 2000) from the Arab world. It states, "Peace on Earth!" by the Pope and the obviously dirty satanic Jew answering, "Colonies on Earth!" (Arabic is read right to left). I think this one could piss off Jews and Catholics alike. These are commonplace in Arab news papers. A Google search will quickly show several cartoons that show the Star of David and the swastika linked together or even placed on the same Jewish caricature. I am dumbfounded by the duplicity of the outrage that has been expressed by Muslims in the news over the cartoons that show the prophet Mohammed. The expression of violence more so. I don't think these folks understand how much they are damaging the Western view of Islam. The bearded men with turbans dancing near the flames of the different embassies are now burned into so many impressionable minds.

Of course my exposure to Islam is limited. Many of the Muslims I saw in Iraq were intimidated by or outright hated me for my American uniform. That was different. I actually understood the concept of not liking my presence in Iraq by Iraqis as a considered foreign invader. It had nothing to do with religion in my mind. We were stuck with each other as well.

I think that Muslims have been marginalized in the West more by these violent acts. I would consider myself more than just a little culturally sensitive but I just don't get it. Burning flags and protesting doesn't hurt anyone but the invasion and destruction of embassies is an act of war unto itself.