Islamic State Terrorists are Islamic Like Duh
It’s so rare for a politician to climb out on a limb that the very notion of a brave political speech has almost become an oxymoron. So let’s give credit where it is due.
Last week, British Prime Minister David Cameron confronted a tough debate with brutal honesty. For too long, Western leaders have danced around the real reasons for the rise of Islamic State.
From US President Barack Obama to Tony Abbott, Western leaders have shied away from telling it like it is, choosing instead mealy-mouthed political correctness and cultural infirmity.
Speaking at Birmingham’s Ninestiles School, Cameron said this: “In the past, governments have been too quick to dismiss the religious aspect of Islamist extremism … But simply denying any connection between the religion of Islam and the extremists doesn’t work.”
He’s right. In Australia, Abbott, normally a straight-shooter, has failed to make the honest link between Islam and Islamic State.
Cameron made the obvious point that “these extremists are self-identifying as Muslims. The fact is from Woolwich to Tunisia, from Ottawa to Bali, these murderers all spout the same twisted narrative, one that claims to be based on a particular faith.”
He said it is futile to deny that. Worse, it is dangerous to deny the link because you neuter the important voices that seek to challenge the religious interpretations adopted by extremists.
The move that could see a future Labor government recognise the state of Palestine Duration: 05:30
First posted 27/07/2015 11:55:53Download audioThe ALP national conference passed a resolution committing the party to discuss joining like minded nations who have already recognised Palestine, if there was no progress on a two state solution.
The resolution "recognises the special circumstances of the Palestinian people, their desire for respect, and the achievement of their legitimate aspiration to live in independence in a state of their own".
Bassam Dalli is an Executive Member Australian Palestinian Advocacy Network.
More ABC NewsRadio MorningsHe speaks to ABC NewsRadio's Glen Bartholomew.