Should American Muslims Join the American Armed Forces?
Al Qaeda attacked America on 9/11 (and before 9/11) in response to American support for Muslim dictatorships in the Muslim world, American support for Israel, and direct American military involvement in the Muslim world (including in Saudi Arabia and Iraq) dating back to the first Gulf War. After 9/11, the U.S. withdrew its troops from Saudi Arabia, but it continued all the above-mentioned policies. Furthermore, the U.S. military invaded Afghanistan and Iraq, and the U.S. military has supported efforts to defeat Muslim insurgents in other regions, like the Philippines. The U.S. military may also attack Iran due to a conflict over Iran’s nuclear program. Al Qaeda continues to threaten further attacks against America. For the foreseeable future, the U.S. military will be fighting in the Muslim world.
There are 1.4 million Americans serving in the American armed forces. Since 9/11, in preparation for wars in the Muslim world, the U.S. military has actively recruited American Muslims who speak the languages of the Muslim world and who understand the cultures of countries like Iraq and Afghanistan.
Out of an American Muslim population of approximately 6 million, between 5,000 and 20,000 American Muslims currently serve in the American armed forces. (Some were already Muslim prior to joining, and others became Muslim after they were already in the military.) Hundreds of American Muslim soldiers have been involved in combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan since 9/11.
Should American Muslims join the American military in larger numbers? Or should all American Muslims get out of the American military?
Arguments By Those Who Believe American Muslims Should Join America’s Armed Forces
1. American Muslims benefit from living in America. They have religious freedom, political freedom, and economic opportunity. This is their home, so they should join the American armed forces, which seek to protect all Americans (including American Muslims).
2. The American military has done good deeds in the past, like helping to free Muslims in Kuwait, Bosnia, and Kosovo, and helping Muslims in various countries after earthquakes and tsunamis.
3. The U.S. military freed Muslims in Iraq and Afghanistan from Saddam and the Taliban. The U.S. military is helping Iraqi and Afghan Muslims to try to build stable, peaceful democracies. American Muslims should join the U.S. military and help their fellow Muslims.
4. American Muslims have a religious obligation to fight insurgents and terrorists in Iraq who target and kill Iraqi Muslim civilians, and to fight warlords, Taliban, and terrorists in Afghanistan who target and kill Afghan Muslim civilians. “And why should ye not fight in the cause of Allah and of those who, being weak, are ill-treated (and oppressed)? – Men, women, and children, whose cry is: ‘Our Lord! Rescue us from this town, whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from thee one who will protect; and raise for us from thee one who will help!’” (4:75)
5. There have been abuses by some American soldiers against innocent Iraqis and Afghans, but abusive American soldiers are the exception, not the rule. Furthermore, the presence of American Muslim soldiers will help to protect Iraqi and Afghan civilians from abuses by other American soldiers. American Muslim soldiers can help remind other American soldiers of the humanity of Iraqi and Afghan civilians, and American Muslim soldiers can encourage moral behavior by other American soldiers. Other American soldiers are less likely to abuse Iraqi and Afghan civilians if they know that American Muslim soldiers are monitoring their behavior.
6. American Muslims in the U.S. military have made a significant contribution by serving as a bridge between the U.S. military and the Muslim world. American Muslim soldiers who understand “Muslim” languages and “Muslim” cultures have helped the U.S. military build relationships and defuse distrust with Iraqis and Afghans. These American Muslim soldiers have helped Iraqis and Afghans to see the U.S. military as a multi-religious institution, rather than an invading Christian/Crusader army. These American Muslim soldiers have helped their U.S. military units communicate with Iraqis and Afghans. They have taught their U.S. military units how to avoid making cultural mistakes. They have helped their U.S. military units, and helped Iraqis and Afghans, understand each other’s needs and concerns.
7. The U.S. military can be a safe place for American Muslim soldiers. Although some American Muslim soldiers have been harassed in the military, other American Muslim soldiers report that they have not experienced any discrimination or harassment in the U.S. military. If more American Muslims join the U.S. military, it will become an even safer environment for American Muslims, because there is strength in numbers. In addition, the presence of large numbers of American Muslims in the military will help the military to better understand Islam, Muslims, and the Muslim world. Furthermore, American Muslims serving in the U.S. military can help remove America’s doubts about the commitment of American Muslims to American national security. That will reduce discrimination and hate crimes against all American Muslims.
Arguments By Those Who Believe American Muslims Should Not Join America’s Armed Forces
1. The American armed forces serve the imperialist interests of American political elites who start wars regardless of popular support or justification for those wars. American Muslims should only participate in wars that are truly justified. American Muslims should only serve in the armed forces of an Islamic state, governed by God’s law, because the wars they fight in (and die in) should please God.
2. The U.S. military doesn’t care about Muslims. America intervened in Kuwait not to protect Muslims, but to protect America’s access to oil. For years, America supported an arms embargo against Bosnia, preventing the Bosnians from defending themselves against Serbian attacks. America eventually intervened in Bosnia and Kosovo, but only after tens of thousands of Muslims had been placed in concentration camps, raped, and killed.
3. The U.S. military doesn’t care about Iraqi Muslims and Afghan Muslims. For years, America propped up dictators like Saddam, and America did business with the Taliban. Then the Bush Administration decided to invade Iraq and Afghanistan and to overthrow those governments, resulting in destructive civil wars that have killed and maimed hundreds of thousands of innocent Iraqis and Afghans. Most American Muslims, and many Iraqis and Afghans, opposed the invasions.
4. For religious reasons, American Muslim soldiers cannot fight fellow Muslims. “If a man kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, to abide therein (Forever): And the wrath and the curse of Allah are upon him, and a dreadful penalty is prepared for him.” (4:93) Furthermore, the Constitution of Medina (which was drafted on the instructions of the Prophet) stated, “A believer shall not slay a believer for the sake of an unbeliever, nor shall he aid an unbeliever against a believer.”
5. The U.S. military has intentionally abused innocent Iraqis and Afghans. Some American soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan regularly refer to all Iraqis and Afghans using racist terms like “camel jockey,” “haaji,” and “raghead.” There have been reports of American soldiers firing randomly into crowded Iraqi neighborhoods. There have been reports of American soldiers shooting and killing innocent Iraqi families at U.S. military checkpoints. There have been reports of American soldiers raping Iraqi civilians; some American soldiers have been convicted of rape in Iraq. There have been reports of American soldiers rounding up Iraqi civilians indiscriminately, stripping them naked, forcing them to stand for hours in the sun, and verbally and physically abusing them. There have been reports of American soldiers raiding Iraqi homes, holding families at gunpoint, and stealing their food and other property. There have been reports of American soldiers randomly detaining Iraqis and Afghans. In addition, American soldiers have beaten and killed some Iraqi and Afghan detainees.
6. Some Iraqi Muslims and Afghan Muslims view American Muslim soldiers as Muslim sell-outs. Furthermore, some American soldiers view American Muslim soldiers as disloyal and untrustworthy, especially in light of incidents of violence and treason by American Muslim soldiers against other American soldiers. Therefore, American Muslims in the military cannot effectively serve as a bridge between the U.S. military and the Muslim world.
7. Anti-Muslim bias, suspicion, discrimination, and harassment in the U.S. military make it very difficult for American Muslim soldiers to serve comfortably and effectively. Some American soldiers have made it clear that they don’t trust American Muslim soldiers. Some American Muslim soldiers report that other American soldiers have called them names like “camel jockey” and “Al Qaeda terrorist.”
The Experiences Of A Few American Muslim Soldiers Since 9/11
Some American Muslim soldiers have been killed in Iraq. For example, Army Captain Humayun Khan, 27, was killed in Iraq in 2004 when he tried to stop a suicide bomber from attacking an American compound. Army Spc. Azhar Ali, 27, was killed in 2005 in Iraq by a roadside bomb that blew up his vehicle while he was on patrol. In 2007, Army Spc. Kareem R. Khan, 20, died in Iraq when a bomb detonated while he and other soldiers were checking abandoned houses for explosives; Khan was awarded a Purple Heart and Bronze Star.
Captain Abdullah Hulwe, a Muslim chaplain in Iraq, says his presence in Iraq helps the military develop better relations with Iraqi Muslims, and helps reduce the anger that some American soldiers have towards ordinary Iraqis, which makes both Americans and Iraqis safer. Major Abdul-Rasheed Muhammad, a Muslim chaplain in Iraq, helped persuade the military to rebuild a mosque within Camp Cooke, to be used by American Muslim soldiers and Iraqis. Major Muhammad said he was able to help American soldiers better understand Islam, and to help Iraqis better understand America. Pfc. Mirza Bashir Ahmad says other soldiers in his unit in Iraq seek his help in establishing good relations with Iraqis.
Some American Muslims in the military have said they are uncomfortable having to fight against Muslims in Afghanistan or Iraq. In June 2004, Sgt. 1st Class Abdullah Webster was jailed for refusing to deploy to Iraq; he had previously served with the military in Kosovo, where the enemy had been Serbian, not Muslim. Air Force Chaplain Captain Hamza Al-Mubarak testified on Sgt. Webster’s behalf that it would be better for Sgt. Webster to die than to take up arms against Muslims in Iraq. Qaseem Uqdah, a former Marine and the head of the American Muslim Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Council, says American Muslim soldiers must honor their contracts with the military, even if that means going to war in Muslim countries.
A few American Muslim soldiers have been formally accused of disloyalty. Captain James Yee, chaplain at Guantanamo Bay, was accused of espionage, detained in solitary confinement for 76 days, subjected to sensory deprivation, and threatened with the death penalty. All charges were dropped. Charges of attempted espionage at Guantanamo Bay were also dropped against Senior Airman Ahmad Al Halabi.
Army Sgt. Hasan Akbar was sentenced to death for killing fellow soldiers while their unit awaited deployment from Kuwait into Iraq in 2003. Sgt. Akbar admitted killing two fellow soldiers and injuring fourteen in a grenade attack because he believed that American soldiers would kill Muslims, and rape Muslim women, in Iraq. His lawyers argued that he was mentally ill. Sgt. Akbar claimed that he was religiously harassed before the incident, but the defense did not present any testimony regarding religious harassment at the trial.
In 2004, Marine Corporal Wassef Ali Hassoun was charged with deserting his post in Iraq. The military believes he is hiding in Lebanon.
In 2004, a National Guard tank crewman, Spc. Ryan G. Anderson, was convicted of trying to give Al Qaeda information about American troops (troop strength and tactics) and methods for killing American soldiers. His lawyer argued that he was mentally ill.
In 2008, a former Navy sailor, Hassan Abu-Jihaad, was convicted of leaking details (prior to 9/11) about Naval ship movements in the Persian Gulf to suspected Al Qaeda supporters.
In November 2009, a Palestinian/Jordanian American Muslim soldier stationed at Fort Hood in Texas, Major Nidal Malik Hasan, was accused of shooting and killing twelve American soldiers and wounding many others. Witnesses say he shouted “Allahu Akbar” (“God is great”) before opening fire. Some who know him say he was angry about the presence of American troops in Afghanistan and Iraq; that he said the U.S. was waging a “war on Islam;” that he said Islamic law required that American actions in the Muslim world should be confronted; and that he was upset that he would be deployed to serve in Afghanistan. Hasan had previously prepared a PowerPoint presentation for the Army, warning of “adverse effects” for the Army unless American Muslims were allowed to avoid fighting fellow Muslims overseas. Investigators found Hasan’s business cards printed with the term “SoA(swt).” Investigators speculate this means “Soldier of Allah, glory be to Him.” Hasan repeatedly asked a leader at his local Texas mosque how American Muslim soldiers could religiously justify being at war against Afghan Muslims and Iraqi Muslims. Others who know Hasan say he was upset about anti-Muslim harassment he had previously experienced from other soldiers.
John Doe said
on September 12 2006 @ 8:35 am
I was listening to a local radio talk show today and the host indicated that militant islamists are the enemies in the war on terror and not “terrorists”. He said that American muslims are guilty by association for not speaking out against the attacks. He said that muslims are not patriotic because they are not joining the US military in significant numbers to fight the threat.
I called to say that one of my good Muslim friends, a guy who would give you the shirt off his back, asked me for a flag I had hanging in my office after 9/11 when he could not find one at the hardware store and it was probably still hanging on his front porch.
German Americans fought against German extremists. Japanese joined the fight during world war II. The war is not against Islam, it is against people who want to murder American civilians and any government which does not bow down to their extremist philosophy.
I really suggest that American Muslims show thier loyalty by joining the American military unless they want to start to be seen by the wider population as sympathizers to the murderers that want to destroy the freedom that we all share as Americans. Blaming American policies for the attacks on America and choosing to not fight the extremists that want to kill you because you are American is pathetic.
abdullah said
on October 25 2006 @ 3:59 pm
realy muslim cant go to war for the difrent meaning then to defend our relegion
rob tobin said
on November 9 2006 @ 7:24 am
I don’t understand religion to begin with! If I like short-sleeved shirts, the Stones, like to vacation in Canada and watch old reruns of “Gilligan’s Island,” why the heck should I form a club who do all these things, then declare war on the other group that’s exactly the same except they watch reruns of “The Addams Family?” Religion is no less ridiculous, though a lot more dangerous. I mistrust ANY religious person because they’re obviously mentally imballanced from the get-go! Christian = Spanish Inquisition; Islam = suicide bombers; and they both = religion by conquest and nutcase adherants.
Taha Amine Abdelkhalki said
on November 12 2006 @ 5:45 pm
im a candian muslim rebahilated criminal that supports dubya 100% snd the war and i think more american muslims shoulf join the military and stop these satanist al qaeda from trying to demonize islam,when i get my pardon in 2010 first thing im doing is joing the marines so i can do my job as a muslim.
Alan Is'mail Ali said
on November 23 2006 @ 7:01 pm
I always find it amazing when I hear Muslims say, “don’t
join the American Military” because you will be fighting
against fellow Muslims! But then when I turn on the
television, look on the internet, or read various newspapers
I see what is taking place in the Sudan, Palestine, and
other predominately Muslim countries. Aren’t those
Muslims fighting other Muslims (Iran vs. Iraq)? Aren’t
they killing one another dressed in military garb?
Please…stop the non-sense! I don’t want Muslims killing
Muslims as much as any religious group killing another
religious group! If a Muslim decides to join the arm
forces…let them join! As an American Muslim, I see fit
that if one wants to contribute to the American fabric
one has to play some type of role in that American
fabric. And if that role is joining the American Armed
Forces…so be it! As stated brilliantly by another
post, “American Muslims can serve as a bridge between
Muslims here in America and Muslims over seas.”
The reason why I agree with such a statement is because
when I go to work for the Police Department here, and
I encounter fellow Muslims from overseas, they are amazed
to see a fellow Muslim in an American Police Uniform
assisting them. This absolutely puts them at ease!
So I do advocate Muslims who reside in this country
who are able to join the military, to consider joining the
military if they so choose.
Daniel Spiewak said
on December 22 2006 @ 1:24 pm
I feel that all people of differant faiths should be able to join the US armed forces and help protect this country, ie melting pot this country was founded with one nation under your GOD with liberty and justice for ALL
Abdul-Jaleel A. Mustafaa said
on January 5 2007 @ 1:45 am
I am in the Military and have been serving this country for over 19 Years and doing a good job at that. I am Muslim but also American, we have a greater responsibility and not because of 911.
Adnan Khan said
on January 10 2007 @ 12:42 pm
You idiots. It’s written in simple black and white for Muslims:
‘Believers (Muslims) who take up arms and walk behind
unbelievers in war, will die a unbeliever’
All this fancy shmancy patriotic BS means nothing next to
safeguarding the destiny of your eternal soul for a Muslim.
As for these ‘muslims’ who go around killing other muslims,
for them there is a sahi hadith which goes like this, that
whichever muslim unsheaths his sword upon another, is
hellbound. Clear enough for all you ?.
Sheesh, what an amateur hour this is!. Go to a bonafide
Alim and get all this sorted out, before you don your army
uniform and stumble out there to kill a fellow Muslim.
Abu Khair said
on February 21 2007 @ 5:32 am
Praise be to Allaah.
If you are sent to wage war against the Muslims, then it is not permissible for you to take part at all. Helping the kaafirs against the Muslims is a form of major kufr which puts one beyond the pale of Islam. Allaah says concerning one who supports the mushrikeen (interpretation of the meaning):
“And if any amongst you takes them (as Awliyaa’, i.e., friends), then surely, he is one of themâ€[al-Maa’idah 5:51]
Jay said
on March 6 2007 @ 3:04 pm
I will say this, Sgt Hasan Akbar should hang for his betrayal of his fellow soldiers!!!!!!!
Kevin Hanley said
on April 19 2007 @ 8:19 am
I am perplexed by what I perceive to be a double standard that Americans of the Islamic faith seem to embrace. That many people, not only Muslims, refer to themselves as ——- Americans (the blank is usually filled in by an ethnic designation or racial identity) would indicate their primary allegiance and loyalty rests with some other identity before they acknowledge themselves as Americans. What seems most troubling with “Muslim-Americans” is that their primary focus is on their religion while the country which from which they now derive their freedoms and benefits is relegated to a secondary status. It appears they would not take up arms against any external or internal threats if those who threaten America are Muslim. Yes, they make statements that Islam rejects terrorism and that they are proud to be American but there seems to be no active participation in American unless it can be to institutions or careers that promote their own economic benefits. How many Muslim charities make donations to non-Muslim causes? It seems that Muslims want all the benefits and freedoms of America but they direct their loyalty only to their faith.
Joe said
on April 21 2007 @ 10:32 am
With respect to American Muslims “feeling uncomfortable fighting other muslims” We have freedom of religion here, but when a soldier or sailor enlists in our armed forces, they have a duty to this country to protect us from the advancement of the FALSE Religion , which seeks to impose their garbage on the rest of us. Most if not , advocate terrorist/violent tactics to bring the rest of us around. If I were a young man again, I would not hesitate to aim my sights on a raghead. These people are even worse than the Jevohos
Greg said
on May 2 2007 @ 5:20 am
Religion without Freedom of Religion is nonsense. The fact that the Jihadists want to impose their religion by force of arms on others is illogical. If someone points a gun at someone and says “Tell me you love me”, how sincere is that person when they respond “I love you”? Likewise, how sincere is a “convert” to Islam living under Sharia law, when if he doesn’t obey he must face the consequences, some of which are violent or even death? How much more revered will a faithful American Muslim be in the eyes of God, since he has freedom of religion, because of this? For a man to remain faithful while never being tempted is no test of faith, especially when rejection of faith could have deadly consequences. But for a man to remain faithful while living in freedom, always tempted without earthly consequence, is no small feat.
As far as Muslims fighting Muslims not being able to get their reward in Heaven…. So, a criminal Muslim walking into a mall and shooting civilians cannot be stopped with lethal force by a Muslim policeman? Last I checked, murder is illegal under Sharia law as well. How are terrorists, who blow up civilians, any different than that criminal? An American Muslim and his Christian friend fighting side by side, are not fighting a holy war against Muslims. They are fighting against violent terrorists who mercilessly target civilians, who are criminals under Sharia law, Christian beliefs, or any secular law that exists in any country of the world.
If you’re Muslim and you don’t believe this, consider this: If one day you come home to find someone raping your wife after having stabbed one of your children, before you use deadly force to stop him from killing your family, you’d better ask him his religion. If he is Muslim, then I guess you have to leave him alone to ensure your place in Heaven.
Not fighting the bad guys who are killing civilians around the world in the name of their faith, is the same as letting that man have his way with your family.
If you are an American Muslim, then you have the same stakes in this fight as your non-Muslim neighbor. The terrorists will be just has happy to kill your family, as they’d be to kill your non-Muslim neighbors family. They will NOT ask your religion before blowing you up. They don’t do so anywhere else in the world, so why should they change the rules for you?
They won’t.
Deborah Ellis said
on June 23 2007 @ 8:20 pm
I am a Canadian children’s author working on a book of interviews with kids who have a parent serving overseas with the military. I would like to include as wide a range of points of view and experiences as possible. If you know of a young person who might like to share their story with me, please pass my contact information on to their parents. Thank you, and please accept my best wishes.
Deborah Ellis, dellis@can.rogers.com
Bob said
on October 22 2008 @ 2:48 am
I feel that in order for us to explain our predicament to our non-Muslim compatriots and to each other, we need to divide the discussion into two parts between two parts; being a good citizen of this country and joining the U.S. military. As a result of the imperialistic, hegemonic nature of our government, there is presedence for refusing to join the military while remaining a law-abiding, patriotic citizen.
Muslims can show they love their country by obeying every letter of the law; by caring for their neighbors, upholding what is just and contributing to the fabric of our society. We should join in the political process, foster inter-religious dialogue and protect the homeland. I believe this is incumbent on Muslims as America safeguards our religious freedoms. If one were to hypothetically be aware of an impending attack on our homeland, he/she would be bound to rush to it’s defence and attack the perpetrators, even if they are Muslim.
Regarding serving in the military; since the crookedness of our government has become manifest and, since it has been shown that our politicians care more about advancing their imperialsitic interests than they do for defending our rights, Muslim Americans should not serve in the U.S. military at this time. Each and every Muslim is endowed by the Creator with the gift of reasoning. It is not sufficient to say, ‘the president needs me’ and rush off to some ill-advised campaign. When investigative journalism has proven that Iraq was based on a lie and is part of a grand neo-con scheme; when it has been shown that Afghanistan is part of an effort to control a strategic oil pipeline that will circumvent Russia and isolate Iran, you have to use your power of reason and ask yourself, ‘is this a just war I am fighting?’ If you cannot answer that comfortably, you should not take part. If this were a simple matter of patriotism, then why are Bush and Cheney’s children not fighting? For those politicians’ kids who are sent off to war, like Bidens, the chances are they’re assigned to come cozy section of the country out of harms way. There is no justice in what our government is using our army for. This should weigh on the minds of every American citizen and not just Muslim-Americans.
It was once said, “I love my country so that I trust my government not”. Dont’ confuse political alleigance with patriotism. And don’t confuse patriotism with racism.
Anonymous said
on October 22 2008 @ 5:05 pm
I contend that there is nothing wrong with Muslims joining the US military and even fighting in wars. However, being in the military doesn’t exempt a person from being Muslim and having Islamic morals. Muslims still have to adhere to the Islamic rules of war, including not destroying crops, not destroying infrastructure, not targeting women and children (even in situations where evil is hiding amongst them), and not terrorizing POWs. Also, our faith teaches us that intention of our actions is sometimes more important than our actions. How can Muslims fight a war against any people when the US government’s intention for these wars isn’t always forthright and honest (ie, are we in Iraq because of WMDs or to bring democracy to the Iraqi people?).
Also, we need to look at the socio-economic reasons for many Muslims not being in the military. Until recently, the economic conditions of the Muslim community in the US has been very good, and historically speaking people with money do not join the military unless they are from military families. Finally, there are plenty of Black Muslims in the military, but the country doesn’t see them as “Muslim” because they don’t have long beards or Muslim-sounding names.
I think the biggest problem Muslims are facing is a PR problem. We aren’t explaining our viewpoints very well and until we can articulate how being American and being Muslim aren’t contradictory, we will have issues as a community.
Anonymous said
on October 23 2008 @ 10:09 am
I agree with a lot of what is in the last two , by Bob and anonymous on October 22.
The real question is should anyone, Muslim or not, be fighting in these wars, especially Iraq? It is only natural that Muslims overwhelmingly fall into the camp of people are against the war on Iraq. Most Americans, around 70% right now, are against the war , and most of those who supported it to begin with were tricked with false information, fear-tactics and propaganda. (and most of those who support it now agree it was a mistake to go in but continue to support it because they think it would be a mistake to leave now).
If America was fighting a just war, for example if it was under attack, then many more Muslims would join. I think Muslims are not joining because they don’t agree with the way the US’s military is used, not because they are not patriotic and such.
William said
on December 30 2008 @ 12:26 pm
Let us remember back when Manifest Destiny was being practiced to clense the continent of those that lived here first.
Many of those that lived here first helped by being scouts and aiding the genocide of their kind.
I don’t believe that America is doing this to the Muslims, but I certainly can see how a Muslim can view it that way. If I were Muslim I would question many of America’s positions and although I loved my country, it would be impossible for me to kill even distant relatives.
I probably would have trouble killing white Christians if I were living in a non white Christian world. I have talked with Hispanic soldiers and thye have problems looking into a bombed home and looking at dead children that look like their children.
“The ink of the scholar is more sacred than the blood of the martyr.”
Let us all try to think our way out of this, and not justify everything as doing God’s will. No matter which holy book one reads, they are books of love.
Joseph Tarrance said
on June 18 2009 @ 5:11 am
Joseph said: The muslims need to get real. If you join the army you have taken an oath to our nonmuslim president to obey him and follow his orders. That means from the President on down to all those who are legislating orders under his command. I read where Mohammed said that muslims can only fight in a jihad if it is against an oppressor waging war against them or to make the word of their God supreme. If they join they join our army, the US army they know we are not trying to make the word of their God Allah supreme. America was built with the intention of keeping the word of their God Allah subjugated. They know that they have sold out to their so called religion and are just trying to make an excuse to their Muslim buddies that they are good muslims. They don’t want to pull the triggers to kill their muslim buddies, but they damn sure have no problem training and helping our government kill their buddies, they have no problems helping transport the bombs, bullets, tanks, food, electronics and even handing the soldiers that are killing their muslim buddies the bullets and helping to work on and develop our targeting systems so we can kill muslims faster and more effectively. They don’t really have a love for their muslim religion in their hearts. These muslims join our Army because they know that we are superior to them in everyway and they want to be on the winning side and reap the benefits and pay ($dollars$), education etc. Passing the bullets and making the bullets is the same as pulling the trigger because they know what those bullets are being used for. They are cowards who are afraid to stand up for their muslim buddies because they know we will kick their asses into oblivion. So they use their brains and pick the winning team because they have no faith in their God. They are scum and I have no respect for scum who will betray their own buddies.
Nadja said
on August 7 2009 @ 5:44 pm
Oh, please. As someone who has indigenous American ancestors, I do wish the white folks would quit bringing up manifest destiny over and over and over again. It wasn’t as if the tribes were all singing Kumbaya together until whites, blacks, and Asians arrived; in fact my ancestors used to literally eat Algonquins after torturing them to death.
The reality is that Al-Qaeda hasn’t been known for NOT killing fellow Muslims – or have we forgotten what they did to the Sufis and the Shia in Afghanistan? Or what has been going on in the Swat Valley? It might be fun for some to disparage the American government, but the reality is that most governments are worse, far worse.
As a Muslim I find it almost tragic when I listen to fellow Muslims decry enlistment in the US armed forces because it is haram to kill fellow Muslims since over the years I have listened to far too many fellow Muslims justify the genocide in Sudan and other instances of the mass murder of some Muslims by other Muslims.
Abdul Dayan said
on September 3 2009 @ 11:58 am
Hello freinds
I am an Indian Muslim and also a practising muslims. According to Holy Koran :Any one who is born and brought up on any soil then he is instructed to protect his/her motherland at any cost:
If he/she is died while fighting against his/her enemy to protect motherland then he is two times martyr ” he is a martyr in the eyes of Islam” and he is martyr of the motherland also”
There is a special status of a Muslim martyr in Islamic tradition. Even he needs not to have funeral
wear for burial. his solider out fit is funeral wear and he gets in to heaven .His all sins are excused by the Almighty Allah.
So, i must argue any muslim where he/she is born should join in his/her country defence forces. Islam praises the protector of his or her motherland.
So, far my knowledge is concerned no other religions praise so much a soldier in which way
Islam appreciates.
Secondly all most all countries have their own arrangement for observation of different religious prayers so why American muslims reluctant to join the armed forces.
Again i want to cite an example that the war “Qarbala: was fought by 2 muslims group neither it was fought against any non-muslim army.
War is justified against any unrighteous deed in Islam. If any so called group call themselves as pure follower of Islam and resorts to violence against humanity then they should be prosecuted
immediately.
If you are truly muslim and follow basic Islamic principles and understand Islam properly then you shoud not hesitate to join your country armed forces.
Ameen
Airborne Ranger said
on October 7 2009 @ 5:37 am
Anyone who says muslims can’t fight for their country, “only for their religion” is lying and contradicting themselves (be it knowingly or not i do not know). In islam you owe your loyalty to the country in which you’re allowed to peacefully practice your religion and in the country in which you are allowed to earn your bread.
I am a muslim and i am in the U.S Airborne Ranger and am a proud member. Never have i been discrimanated against in any way shape or form by my friends and colleagues and i know that i can truthfully say that this was the best decision of my life.
The extremists that we’re fighting don’t want children to go to school, have fun, grow up, and most importantly have a bright future.
Keep up the good work boys.
~Airborne Ranger.
Micsix said
on November 6 2009 @ 12:23 pm
It is an all volunteer military join if you want, don’t join if you don’t want. I have been in the military either active or reserve for 20 years. I just got back from Iraq. I will tell all who will listen one thing though. America is not at war – A small less than 1% subset of America- Military members and their families – are at war and we paying 100% the cost. Everyone in America, right or left seems to have a f*cking opinion while less than 1% have any skin in the game. Our deaths are a talking points to you people- do you even know any of us? Bring back the draft and lets see how everyone gets serious. P.S. I served with a young muslim guy from Chicago and his family was ASHAMED to tell anyone he was risking his life for his country in Iraq.
T. D Shabazz said
on November 6 2009 @ 8:12 pm
The Creators Peace Be Upon You:
I am a Muslim and a Veteran and I believe that it is right to serve, if you are already an American or planning on being an American.
Of late the Muslims have been getting bad press, but America is founded on principles that Muslims and believers who believe in the Creator can accept, no matter what relegion they are. The Muslims who believe in the Creator, and want what is good for all of humanity, are encouraged to participate in the U.S.A and what it stands for. In order to right the wrongs, we should study the Constitution and Declaration of Independence and stand up for the principles they stand for. We are all immigrants in America; and as citizens we are also part of what makes America great.
The Muslim American Veterans Association is having a Chicagoland Banquet November, 15, 2009. Tickets are $50. A full page ad in our souvenir book is $100, 1/2 page ad is $50, card ad is $25, patron ad is $10, and we are seeking any amount as a donation.
Donations and payments for ads in our souvenir book can be mailed to Muslim American Veterans Association, P.O BOX 2596, Country Club Hills, IL 60478. Souvenir books will go into print on 11/11/09.
For more information, email me at tdshabazz@netzero.net
T. D Shabazz
Thank you.
Anonymous said
on November 6 2009 @ 8:59 pm
When some immigrant or children of an immigrant, regardless of their faith, decide to become a US citizen then it is perfctly OK to participate in all activities including joing the Armed Forces.
Anonymous said
on November 6 2009 @ 9:01 pm
AOA,
Interesting arguments.
It sounds better if Muslim soldiers are sent to non-Muslim countries so they don’t have to fight against the Muslims–if this is possible, then people will be more inclined to join US Army.
Anonymous said
on November 7 2009 @ 11:06 am
If Muslims in America were in any way restricted or penalized for the peaceful practice of their religious beliefs, if the federal or any state or local government in this country were taking measures to prevent or even discourage those who wished to convert to Islam from doing so, or if the US were preventing or even restricting the free and peaceful practice of Islam in countries where it maintains a military presence, then there would certainly be a case that Muslims — or anyone of conscience for that matter — should refuse to serve in the American military. But as it is, the US is a country that has not only dedicated itself to providing Muslims (and all peaceful individuals) with freedom to worship and expand their religion as they please, but has delivered — consistently, and over a long period of time. In fact, Muslims in the US are given greater freedom of worship than even most nations in the Muslim world provide — just TRY speaking contrary to the official Wahabbist line in Saudi Arabia, or demanding equality with the Ayatollas as a Sunni cleric in Iran. In fact, all peaceful religions are respected and embraced as a fundamental part of the fabric of life in America, which makes America as much a Muslim country as it is a country of any particular religion, irregardless of what the numbers say. Must one define the notion of a “Muslim country” strictly by religious membership statistics? Or should one rather give weight to the degree to which that country allows the free and peaceful practice and propagation of the Islamic faith? I would contend that this is the key question American Muslims must resolve for themselves when pondering whether or not their religious values conflict with assuming something other than an indirect role in the defense of their country.
bob bitchen said
on November 7 2009 @ 12:03 pm
yea yea but jesus is the way no will come before god but through christ… the bilbe say thou shat not kill .. but we still do it mankind anyways…so where in the there book doesit say fly a plane in the wtc… yeaa um how that working out for guys gee if only you did n’t do that then we wouldn’t be in you r back yard… 911 gave us a reson to take over every thing and take your oil… good move slick thanks for the gas
Saadia C. said
on November 8 2009 @ 1:51 am
The presented debate and experiences of Muslim soldiers is interesting and timely, especially following the tragic shootings in Ft. Hood.
I think we can add another category. Should Muslims get more involved in civilian efforts in Afghanistan and Iraq in order to promote understanding between cultures? Should Muslims who are familiar with the issues at hand be more involved in policies related to war and how it is executed in the first place? For example, researchers in DC came up with the idea of “soft power” to extend US influence, rather than relying too much on military “hard power”.
(I want to digress and express my personal sentiment since the word “tragic” was used in commentary to media and it came from a comment I made about “tragedy”, which wasn’t intended to be widespread. The Inauguration wasn’t tragic and my comment about it wasn’t a call for sympathy. All I meant to say was that it was a myth to assume that previous ones ran perfectly. I presented only part of an article that explained how demonstrations and riots occurred in previous inaugurations. The article said that some ended up in tragedy. This one was not like that despite a significant number of attendees and volunteers like myself. It ran relatively well.
I haven’t had a chance to explain but my apologies if it came out wrong.)
saima said
on November 8 2009 @ 1:49 pm
Very interesting and urgently needed to be discussed, it is dire need of time to make America and Muslim safer It will require more intelligence(not cia) than what take to blow nations and buildings etc with bombs and airplane. It require a clear standard of policies of promoting peace and justice world wide. American government is trying hard but what hinders its efforts is favoritism and double standard.
saima said
on November 8 2009 @ 1:54 pm
All of it has nothing to do with religion, religion is just the peace of bread caught between two monkeys. It’s human delemma that is well understood in these times of advance sciences, but ignored due to lack of human selflessness and commitments when dealing the issue of human race.
docwatson said
on November 8 2009 @ 4:49 pm
After the last shooting, perhaps we need to start forming all Muslim units for Korean DMZ duty; that would free up non-Muslim soldiers for OIF and OEF and it would 1) remove any potential conflict of interest for duty and 2) segregate them for their own protection. I think someone needs to consider this idea and bring it forward – if only as a temporary measure.
Let’s be honest here – The US Army Major chanting ‘Allah Akhbar’ as he shot his fellow soldiers really didn’t help the cause and, as a result, being a Muslim in the US Army just got a whole lot harder and significantly less acceptable to everyone who *isn’t* a Muslim. I thinkn the mind set now is Muslim soldier = Terrorist in training. I can’t honestly say I’d feel comfortable serving in an Infantry unit with a Muslim soldier today and would most likely seek to get them transferred or chaptered out for the good of the service.
Anonymous said
on November 9 2009 @ 8:01 am
We the people of this United States, christian, Jewish, atheist….are sick of the attacks from the MUSLIM religion and it’s believer’s. You may call these attackers extremists, but I see you people as a whole. Your bible, the Quran, states that anyone who does not believe in Isam, is and I quote, “AN INFEDEL”, and must be killed. You will even kill your own flesh and blood if they stray from the Isam. That’s totally unbelievable to me, but true. We hear about these cases everyday in the news. About how some crazy MUSLIM ran over and killed his daughter because she was leaning toward the west’s belief’s and customs. You are not of kind, caring belief. You stand for torture, domination, and control. Daniel Pearl….anyone remember him? I do, I will always remember the hooded (COWARDS) MUSLIMS who took a dull knife and slowly decapitated him on the internet. This is what your religion is really about…I personally wish that you would leave our country. Leave us alone. We were fine until you all decided to try and take over the world. Go HOME!
Asif said
on November 9 2009 @ 8:09 am
Dear Saima,
Is the religion of Islam that complicated for a shrink to misunderstand Mr. Abdul Dayan’s point dated 9/3/09 (scroll back)?
saima said
on November 10 2009 @ 12:44 am
Dear Asif for a moment forget about religion, because its like water that travel through different lands pick up the essence of the soils traveled. So to be agree with Abdul Dayan’s I have to search the original source. However, so far as I know Islam, found it incredibly reasonable far beyond we people who uses hardly 10% of our brain can easily imagine. First of All, Islam is not the property of those tribal monster those not all, they don’t practice Islam as meant to be at all. Their killings of their own and others or Daniel Pearl are similar to Timothy Mcvey of Oklahoma bombing. Its a prehistoric mental status thing.
Now, get back to the original point, tell me what good it should be to participate in protecting the motherland when motherlands ideology is corrupted under moral grounds. civil rights movements and post Hallocust era should be good indicator for us to fight for human rights not for pieces of lands and call them motherland and fight blindly when their roots can suck who you are. Force you to lose your identity.
And to Mr. GoHome. All I had to say, Its my home its my birth right to be on this earth, even though you took part of land from native indian and call it whatever you want, that doesnt give you right cancel other people rights. Well if you like you can go to Mars, I heard we will be arranging home for you there shortly.
Talha Khan said
on November 10 2009 @ 8:33 am
Dear Anonymous “Mr/Ms.GoHome”, you proudly declare, and I quote: “Leave us alone. We were fine until you all decided to try and take over the world. Go HOME!”
Exactly these words have been the cry of thousands of Palestinians for over six decades. Their land was taken, their homes were bulldozed, they were shunned, and they were driven away homeless. Then, you did not raise your voice. They cried the same words that you do now. So that was then, and now is now. Now, that the needle is in your own butt, it hurts, Does it not? By no means do I justify terrorism. However, I do emphasize on WHO started it, and WHO aided it in starting with WHOM. Mr/Ms. Proud US Citizen, you must ask these questions before forming your overly broad conclusion such as “Go Home.”
Nevertheless, that was not the topic at debate here, and I recognize it. For the reasons that follow, I reach the conclusion that an American Muslim should not join in American Military. For those who propose that being an American, you must contribute to the defense and protection that America provides, I submit that you can still contribute to America in various other ways, one does not have to be in the military to ‘return the favor’ bestowed upon you by the country. Perhaps, you could be in politics? Or intelligence agencies, or even in the executive branch – where REAL decisions to go to war are made. Military here, as we all know, does not decide who to go on war with, it merely carries out the orders. Does it not then make a better sense to get involved in those institutions where you can help promote American and Muslims interests, bridge the gap, with diplomacy and tact. Going working for the military, arguing that you can raise Islamic awareness during a war is something you are doing AFTER the milk is spilled. Its not proactive, rather a reactive approach.
Shak said
on November 11 2009 @ 12:30 am
Muslims in US should know that any WAR has nothing to do with religion. It is very wrong to link any war specialy a war to defend your country, in this case US, to your religion. If Syria attacks Jordan should Jordanina Army surrender to Syrians and give there country to Syria because they are muslims. Muslin armies of Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan are fighting proper wars againet these extremists. In other almost all muslim countries police is fighting with similar extremists. A US citizen should defend its country regardless of what is the enemies religion.
Also it is important for a US muslim to consider that whatever circumstances, killing of innocent human being is not justified at all.
Dick Loewen said
on November 11 2009 @ 12:45 am
I’m a Canadian and am pleased to see and read the dialogue about Muslims and the military. I don’t have an answer but believe there needs to be continued discussion and dialogue to help in everyone’s education. I personally do not know a Muslim and have no idea what their thnking is….only from what I read and see in TV exchanges.
From what I’ve read there also needs to a stronger and more public outcry from Muslims and their distancing from the extreme radical interpretation of Islam…when there is a demonstration by radical Muslims anywhere,then the moderate Muslims need to be demonstrating at the same time expressing,their visual and vocal opposition.
It is hoped that attitudes will change after a few generations living in North America…but maybe not as the investigation in Fort Hood continues..
anonymous said
on November 12 2009 @ 5:47 am
War is not about religion thats good but war for the countries also follows the similar means if the basic human dignity is at risk. So war for the country or for the religion should not be the way to go. War for should only be justice for human race that should be the new world religion.
Ken Hjerpe said
on November 14 2009 @ 9:15 pm
As a former member of the U.S. Navy and current member of the federal civil service merchant marine, I have served our country in actions against Libya, the Kozovo War, OIF, and the current anti-piracy campaign in the IO. These are things that most people would point pride to. However, the actions of Major Hasan are the actions of a coward. At any time, he could have left the Army if he felt conflicted about his duty to his country and duty to his religion. All he did in succeeding is to once again question the loyalty of Muslim Americans and he has aided engendering the call to ban Muslims from serving in the military as well as public service jobs (like policeman and fireman) and security job. This is the new backlash that Muslim Americans face – the same backlash that Muslims have felt over 9/11. All he did in succeeding in casting doubt on a segment of American society which is badly needed. There is no better community from which America can draw from to fight Al-Qaeda, Bin-Laden, Taliban, and others than its own American Islamic community. Our government must do more for outreach to Muslim Americans and Muslim Americans must do more to demonstrate their loyalty to the country they live in. There has been a thorough condemanation of Major Hasan’s actions by most major American Muslim groups and that’s a start. These groups also must call on our government to form a better cooperative so to prevent another Major Hasan-like action. As I said, all Major Hasan did was to give the naysayers, the political pundits, and the conservative media elite the ammunition they need in order to promote their anti-Muslim American propaganda and to help feed the fear of Muslims and Isalm within America.
Saima Baig said
on November 19 2009 @ 7:46 am
Major Hasan should only be consider a lunatic person he shouldn’t be labeled as muslim and used to disadvantage of muslim American in services.
Omar said
on December 13 2009 @ 4:51 pm
There is a difference between protecting one’s country and community from criminals and terrorists bent on killing innocent civilians, and helping one’s government to invade and kill innocent people in other countries, along with those who take up arms to defend their country from invasion.
Muslim Americans should want to protect their country and community from anyone who wants to commit crime, including and especially killing innocent civilians. Therefore they should join the law enforcement agencies and other institutions aimed at stopping protecting American communities. Muslims in America are obligated by Islam to oppose crime and violence – and if the perpetrator is a Muslim or not, it makes absolutely no difference.
If you join the military, you will not be targetting “terrorists” who threaten America. You will be targetting the people of invaded and occupied countries who are resisting american invasion and occupation; and sometimes even innocent people who are not even exercising their right to resist foreing invasion. So, the banality of those who identify any military action as ‘protecting America against terrorists” is clear.
American Muslims have a responsibility to do their part in protecting American from terrorists, BUT also have a responsibility to refrain from invading others countries and killing innocent people. Both these responsibilities are primariy to Allah, for which we will answer on the day of judgment – only secondarily to country – since Allah has commanded us maintain law and order in whichever country we live in, regardless of whether it is America or elsewhere.
an American Muslim said
on January 8 2010 @ 3:28 am
In my honest and humble opinion, I have to agree with Omar’s assessment. And for those who consider it, please read and learn about politics in the Middle East in order to make an educated decision.
An Account from USS Liberty Survivors:
http://ussliberty.wordpress.com/2008/12/03/broken-heartsbroken-trust-broken-like-match-sticks/
Washington Report on Middle East Affairs
http://www.wrmea.com/
Council for the National Interest
http://www.cnionline.org/
If Americans Knew
http://www.cnionline.org/
Because you will forced to “follow orders” of those politicians and special interest groups, which are detrimental to those people who are in occupied territories, as Omar pointed out in the previous post.
joe said
on January 12 2010 @ 1:23 am
no offense to any one just sayin what i think and trying to be respectful about it. all muslims need to get on the boat they fled over here taking our jobs and making it hard for us whites to make a living and go back home and take care of there own mess.
Abu Daoud said
on January 22 2010 @ 7:58 pm
Muslims must not take up the Infidels fight. We are Muslim and must look to our own. Only when Shari’a Law replaces the Infidel laws of America can Muslims fight. Those who do so now are destined for the flames of Hell. The Prophet Himself (PBUH) has said, “Make no Infidel your friend.” Rise to Holy Jihad and rid the world of all Infidels so that Islam can ultimately triumph over all others!
Bulldog101 said
on January 26 2010 @ 6:01 pm
In my opinion, I appreciate the Muslim Americans who do fight for their country. Many have deployed and served honorably in this messed up war.
However I do feel the American Muslim community is NOT doing enough for their adopted country.
When the time came to pick a side, they hesitated. That calls into question their very loyalty to the country they are citizens of. The real motives of Al Qada, and the assorted groups in Afgan and Iraq are anything but ideological or Theologically driven at their true core. It’s over regional power & resources.
The Theistic driver is just a smoke screen they use to confuse and motivate the average joes and to manipulate the media.
Asher Rasool said
on February 9 2010 @ 7:20 am
Salam,
I am a practicing muslim and went to an islamic school for my middle school and freshman and sophomore years in high school. And to many muslims disgust i plan on joining the United States Marine Corps. Although to many muslims this seems like a grave sin as i am going to “kill innocent muslim brothers”, i dont see it that way at all. I was born and raised in America and love my country but i dont want to join JUST as a service to my country but as a service to islam as well. Members of the taliban are killing innocent people in general, in their “jihadist” (not true jihad btw) ways, whether they be muslim or not. And to me those people are not muslims. they are oppressors and they are giving a bad name to muslims everywhere. Now some may say i have been brainwashed by the media into thinking that taliban members are terrorists and not freedom fighters. there is no doubt in my mind that the taliban was a freedom fighting force in the past and that some members may still have that mind set, but many have strayed. This has happened many many times in the past where a group fighting for rights soon becomes a menace. the Black Panthers black civil rights group in america is said to have been where the roots of the notorious crip gang began. MQM, a group that fought for indian immigrant muslims rights in pakistan has also become a corrupt group. I have a cousin living in Kohat, Peshawar Pakistan (on the border of Afghanistan). his father (a soldier in the pakistani Army, deceased now) and his family were extremely strong supporters of the taliban for over 2 decades and would mention how all the news about the taliban members is all propoganda and a way for the US to give muslims a bad name. His father was later murdered for unkown reasons. It was not until recent bombings that occured in peshawar that their mindsets changed. Exremists were bombing market places full of muslims and MASJIDS ON FRIDAY PRAYER (equivalent of Sundays in Churchs. Real Muslims dont do that . My cousins changed their perception completely after having firsthand experiences with these extremeists. Another one of my cousins from the other side of my family who lives in Karachi, Pakistan was carjacked by a group of 4 afghani people (they can tell the difference between afghanis and pakistani people easily over there)and was told to drive to a location. once they arrived they exited the vehicle and began firing their guns into crowds of people. Alhamdulillah my cousin managed to escape.These people are not muslims. they are only muslims by name. I would never have considered joining if i had not heard these stories that confirmed the acts of terrorism. I understand that the government has their own agendas but the evidence is there that relief eforts by soldiers are happening such as the rebuilding of schools, delivery of mdecial supplies, and things like that. I dont have to randomly start firing into a crowd of innocent civilians or rape innocent women if i dont want to. those who have done so were not ordered to, but did it out of their own anger and choice. I feel as a muslim that if there were any time for muslims to join it should be now becuase we would be fighting to bring back the name of our religion and prevent these so called muslims from killing more innocent people, muslim and non-muslim. One can only know the truth if they actually serve and see it firsthand. all these other accounts are just speculated by people who either believe too much or too little of what the media shows them. The brother above who serves in the Ranger regiment would have chosen to end his service asap if he felt he wasnt doing something right. However he went on to further continue and advance his career as a soldier. If i find what we are doing to be wrong, then i will finish my required service and never go back and ask for forgiveness. MY initial intentions are to protect and defend innocent people and our religion. And what better way is there to show the truth about muslim people than by demonstrating it through your actions. Muslims serving in the military have a unique opportunity to aid in the recovery of the view of our religion. I can undertand many peoples opposition to mulsims joining the military but please dont bash them becuase there intentions may not be what you think. I am a proud muslim and a proud american and that is my opinion on the situation. i just hope that the actions of Nidal hussein (im not going to give him the respect of saying Major) hasnt ruined it for those of us with good intentions.
Salam and bless you all (YES THE NON MUSIMS TOO) lol
Asher Rasool said
on February 9 2010 @ 8:11 am
Salam
Hopefully i wont leave anything out since this is the second time ive had to type this. I am a American born, practicing Muslim and went to a private islaimc school for 6 years of my life. To many muslim’s, including some of my friends and family, disgust i plan on joining the United States Marine Corps. Many of them argue that i am going over there to kill “innocent muslims”. I on the other hand dont view it like this. The taliban and groups like Al-qaeda are not my muslim brothers. They are exremist and take innocent lives themselves. I will not be fighting my innocent muslim brother but an enemy of islam. These people are not only killling innocent people on a daily basis but are also giving islam a bad name. They are spreading an evil version of islam and poisoning the minds of potentially good muslims. I am not JUST joining to serve my country but also to serve my religion and save it from those who have hijacked it. Many people will read this and assume that i have been brainwashed by American television and the media. It was not what i saw on tv that convinced me to join. it was my own family’s personal experience that convinced me that to join. I have relatives living in Kohat Peshawar Pakistan (right on the border of Afghanistan). They were strong supporters of The taliban for nearly 3 decades. Whenver we would have conversations with them on the topic they would say that whatever is being shown on the tv about the taliban is strictly propoganda to spread hatred against muslims. I think this has something to do with people not wanting to belive that muslims are doing things like this. Just as any other person such as a christian wouldnt want to belive that terroristic acts are being done in the name of their religion; its denial. Anyway, It was these same people who now, after recent events, have completely changed their outlook on the taliban. Recent bombings of market places full of muslims and masjids during FRIDAY PRAYER (equivalent of Sundays at Church) show the true faces of these people. My cousins were shocked to see the people who they trusted before doing these things in their own areas against muslims. Another one of my cousins from the other side of my family who lives in Karachi Pakistan was carjacked by 4 armed afghanis, possibly taliban, (they can tell the difference between afghanis and pakistanis easily over there) and was forced to drive to a location. Upon reaching the location the men jumped out of his car and began firing their weapons into a crowd of people. Alhamdulillah my cousin managed to escape. These experiences show that we are not dealing with muslims here. I have no doubt in my mind that the Taliban was once a great freedom fighting group during the russian occupation. However like many rights groups of the past the taliban have changed. the Black Panthers started out as a civil rights group for blacks in america. It is said to the where the roots of the notorious crip gang began. MQM was a rights group for muslim indian immigrants to pakistan. They too are now a corrupt group. Im sure that there are a few members who are still on the right path but it seems that a large group of them have strayed. I feel that if there is no better time for muslims to join the military. I will be defending innocents and my religion. Ofcourse the government as their own agenda but the evidence cannot be denied that military members have worked in many relieif efforts that involve rebuilding schools and delivering medical supplies. They are helping people. Those who shot into crowds of innocent people or raped innocent women, did so on their own will. No orders were given to do so. Many people can only speculate what is going on over there. Many of those speculators twist facts to meet how they feel about the situation and believe either too much or too little of what the media portrays. I dont have to participate in such things. I have the intention to go over there and end oppression as the prophet would like me to do. If i find that my purpose over there isnt serving the cause i inteded to serve will finish my service contract and never go back and ask for forgiveness. The brother above who serves in the Ranger regiment is a testament to this. If he felt that what he was being told to do was wrong i dont believe he, as a muslim, would have continued his service and advanced his role by becoming a ranger. MY niyah (intention) is for good. If i find otherwise happening over there, i will end my career asap. I just want it to be clear that these people are not muslims and our religion is worth defending. What better way is there to show the true light of islam then to join and display it through our actions. Ofcourse there will still be those of you who disagree but i for one have to see firsthand what majority of muslims say is propoganda. I have to know if i can be a part of something that can change what islam is being portrayed as. If i find it wrong i will leave. I am a proud Muslim and a Proud American. I find it necessary to defend both. Unfortunately psycopaths like Nidal hussein (im not going to give him the respect of saying Major) have lowered the chances and acceptance of muslims in the military. I do hope this gave you another view on muslims in the military and this war.
Salam and bless you (YES THE NON MUSLIMS TOO) lol
John said
on February 20 2010 @ 3:16 am
Listen to these scumbag muslims on this board. 98% of them are out for killing you if you are not one of them. I say nuke ‘em all and get rid of this plaque once and for all!
Asher said
on February 24 2010 @ 10:43 am
John, it is unfortunate that you believe this way about Muslims. As far as i have read it doesnt seem that 98% percent of the muslims who have commented are out to kill you. only one hss posted his extremist views. Unfortunately it is those people who are giving you this feeling and i can understand the frustration and hate you may feel as a result of this. But please do not assume the whole population is like this. There are crazy people like this in every religion. Unfortunately only this side of our religion is shown on television. You may be surprised to hear this, but Arabs only constitute only 20% of the muslim population. And there are over 5 million Muslims in the U.S. alone, let alone European countries, Canada, Australia, etc. There are over 1 bilion Muslims in this world. The second largest religion on the planet. If killing all of “you non-believers” was the main objective of Islam bombings and mass murder would be occuring all over the world. I fail to even see reports of Muslim commiting crimes on episodes of COPS or America’s Most Wanted. Most of the extremists arent well educated in their religion. A recent suicide attack on an IRS office building in texas killed an innocent person. The bomber was a texas, christian man who was agaisnt the IRS policy against software engineers starting their own businesses. He flew his plane into the building killing himself in the process. This act is not enough to judge the whole state of Texas or even Christianity. Acts like this are not uncommon. Several Christian people have murdered doctors are clinics for conducting abortions. These are also acts of terrorism, however we do not label the Christian faith with such violence. Just as some of these commenters you have heard make statements of killing non-believers, you have made a statement to kill all muslims.. so in those few extremist eyes you have evoked a more passionate retalliation. By saying this you have just become like them. Two sides arguinng to completely eliminate each other will solve nothing. I hope you do not continue to judge us all and see that those are just a few who do such things. And please change your own attitude towards them becuase i believe it is this talk that fuels their rage. Just as we only hear they want to kill americans, i am sure they only hear that americans and non-believers want to kill them. I know it seems almost impossible but you will be surprised what a few kind words will do to change a man and his views on life.
susie said
on May 9 2010 @ 7:29 am
I think all muslims should get out of the US. I don’t trust them on our soil as long as we are fight them in Iraq and Afganistan.
The Muslims are trouble makers and there are two many of them in the United States. Why do they live here. They should be made to go into the service and fight for the country they take advantate of.
When the Immigration first started in the US they only could let in so many spanish, so many muslims and all the nationalities has to be around the same amount that was let into this country. For example, they could only allow say 10 thousand spanish, 10 arabs, 10,000 jews, 10,000 poles so no one nationality would take over another. So why did immigration let so many spanish and muslims into this country to tip the population in favor of the spanish and the muslims. The United States should stop letting in any more immigrants until the ones that are here are intergrated in the society, that is they know how to speak english, that the muslims become americanized and don’t wear the headpiece and and become americanized and love the country they live in and help that country to be the best it can. But the muslims have this thought to take over the world and force us to live under the shrie law. This I don’t like and this needs to be stopped. The muslims are definately a threat to world piece.
Bruce said
on May 22 2010 @ 5:19 am
Muslims in US should know that any WAR has nothing to do with religion. It is very wrong to link any war specialy a war to defend your country, in this case US, to your religion. If Syria attacks Jordan should Jordanina Army surrender to Syrians and give there country to Syria because they are muslims. Muslin armies of Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan are fighting proper wars againet these extremists. In other almost all muslim countries police is fighting with similar extremists. A US citizen should defend its country regardless of what is the enemies religion.
Also it is important for a US muslim to consider that whatever circumstances, killing of innocent human being is not justified at all.
Mr. Right said
on June 6 2010 @ 3:28 am
Should we not have fought NAZI Germany because we were both predominantly Christian?
peace said
on June 9 2010 @ 2:16 am
Muslims in our military have absolutely NOTHING to do with “Muslims killing Muslims”. We are not anywhere in the world to kill anyone. We do end up killing those who are armed and dangerously threatening. The terrorist sects long ago have given up the right to call themselves Muslims by themselves having taken up killing other Muslims in a violent and terrorist way. As soon as this violence stops we will have no need or right to commit any troops to any kind of killing. The Muslems in our military are the most courageous of any and the most helpful to peaceful Muslims everywhere.
anonymous said
on July 17 2010 @ 2:00 am
i didn’t get it instead of stopping the war an getting on some solution they are preparing it for more it doesnt matter whether muslims join or not what matters is someone needs to put an end on it because of this war againts terror so many innocent people are sufferning and killed. Stupid peoples like laden in the name of jihad and islam taking innocent lifes and america also taking life of innocent people in the fight againts terrorist.thousands of innocent people have been killed in war againts terror. By watching news it only shows one side of story.Just like invading iraq for possession of nuclear weapon but in the end its was false.This terrorist can be stopped by digging it deep like how they are getting all those weapons and who is supply to them rather than fighting an unending war and taking innocent lives