Monday
September 17, 2001
* Fucking for virginity
We have recently witnessed deplorable acts of terrorism that we all should
be quick to condemn. The terrorists had absolutely no regard for human life
in launching their cowardly surprise attacks that could not be prepared
for, nor defended against. Not only were the targets military personnel,
but also politicians and innocent civilians ["Taking
a stand"].
Such attacks on freedom and democracy should not be tolerated, and I
agree with President Bush that action should be taken both against the terrorists
and states harbouring and aiding the terrorists, as such acts cannot be
tolerated in the civilised world.
Therefore, the world should stand up and take action against Israel and
the Israeli government who have sanctioned and carried out the state assassination
of dozens of high level Palestinian military personnel, security forces
and political activists. These assassinations have not been without the
deaths of innocent men, women and children ("collateral damage"),
the policy continues and is being pursued vigorously, bankrolled by US citizens
and supported by the US government.
Why do we feel the disaster that occurred in the US is worthier of our
condemnation and condolences than any other similar atrocity that has occurred
and continues to occur? If I suggested we lay a wreath for every child that
has died in Africa as a result of simple, treatable, diarrhea, would anyone
care? Crimes of non-action kill more people than crimes of action.
Did anyone in the West reflect for a moment upon the loss of civilian
life when the USS Vincennes shot down the Iranian Airbus or when Saddam
(funded by the US) used chemical weapons against Iranian civilians? Ultimately,
are we civilised people of the view that an American life is more
valuable than any other?
Every day in Israel and the West Bank there's slaughter of stone slinging
Palestinian children and fresh faced Israeli youth drafted into the army
to defend a handful of settlers who have the right to avoid being similarly
drafted. Bombs still drop in Iraq and we look the other way, probably because
we're safe (that's all that matters, right?).
We need to think more carefully about what exactly we mean by "terrorism",
and what Bush really means when he proposes to defeat international terrorism.
Will he propose the bombing of Northern Ireland (home of many terrorist
paramilitary groups), the region around the Pyrenees (Basque separatists),
Israel and logically, Washington DC itself (financial support for the IRA
until recently, continued support for brutal Israeli regime)?!
Don't anyone say that because I raised these points, I have an agenda
to push or I care any less for those who perished when the WTC collapsed.
My point is simply that faceless innocents die every day, indirectly at
our hands, and we only sit up and pay attention when the monster we create
bites off our own kneecaps.
If we're prepared to tolerate (bankroll and ultimately cause) similar
atrocities the world over, we're being immensely hypocritical if we pretend
that people haven't been living the WTC disaster everyday of their lives
and that the tragedy on our doorstep is somehow more horrible. Just we choose
not to see the same thing occuring somewhere else, or our newspapers decide
the stories won't sell ads.
Human life is sacred and precious, regardless of creed or colour. The
tears of victims cross boundaries of race. The cries of mother and fathers
are the same in any language.
My prayers and condolences go out to all those innocents caught up in
mindless acts of terrorism around the world. May justice be done unto the
perpetrators. At the same time, America, remember: Fighting for peace is
like fucking for virginity.
Ehsan Ghorani
* We are all AMERICANS
Unfortunately, some times it takes a tragedy of national proportions
for us to start appreciating the freedoms that we take for granted, and
to realize how fragile our liberties are. President Bush was so right in
his assessment of the recent tragedy as the "first war of the 21st
century." Now, that we are embarking on this prolonged war, let's define
who the enemy is and what we are fighting for. ["Taking
a stand"]
Simply labeling the enemy, as "terrorists" will be only diverting
attention from the real sponsors of such actions. It,s the war declared
by those opposing human rights, civil liberties, individual freedoms and
democratic governments. These people could be of any race, religion, nationality
or political persuasion.
These people are not only in the mountain tops of Afghanistan, but they
are also in government mansions in Tehran, Baghdad, Damascus, Khartoum,
Tripoli and many other world capitals. I have had the unfortunate experience
of suffering at the hands of some of these barbaric people, and I have no
doubt whatsoever that the only language they will understand is that of
unmerciful force.
In one of the anti-American rallies in Pakistan, there was a banner asking
Americans to think why they are hated all over the world. The answer is
simple. America is much more than a territorial boundary. America is an
idea. America represents freedom and enlightenment. It is not America that
is hated by the ignorant and intolerant, it is the freedom of thought that
scares them so much.
All the freedom loving people of the world, regardless of their nationalities
and ethnicity, are "Americans". The fight against America, the
idea, has been going on throughout the history even before there was a geographic
place called America. Only now it has moved within our borders. In defining
our enemies and allies in our new war, let's not forget this historic perspective.
In these trying times and days of national sorrow, let us all remember
that the overwhelming majority of those who have migrated from such places
to this land of the free and home of the brave, have escaped the oppression
and torture of those barbaric regimes. They have come here in search of
freedom, peace and tranquility. They have come here in search of a dream
called America.
America, unfortunately now has the first hand and direct experience of
the viciousness and barbarism of these people. But let us all unite and
not allow the enemy to succeed by turning us into a police state or by dividing
us into groups and factions based on our ethnicities. We are all AMERICANS.
Hamid Bahadori
* Don't be afraid
Please better explain to me what this piece is REALLY about?! Who are
you trying to appease? ["Taking
a stand"]
Of course, I am sorry too. I am sorry that human lives were wasted. I
am sorry that again the Middle East will come under attack. AGAIN. Everyone
(including Americans), know who they should be blaming for the horrific
acts of last week. But instead of bringing justice, they will again spill
havoc upon those who have nothing, suffer, and starve already.
We have seen this done throughout history. Vietnam, Cuba, Nicaragua,
all over Africa... Please take a moment to ask your American neighbors:
do you feel sorry for those innocent people that suffer at the hands of
your government EVERY DAY. Not just once every few years, but EVERY DAY!!!!????!!!!
Don't get me wrong, I do not by any means condone the actions of those
lunatics, but I also fear what is about to come. You know much better than
I, so I don't know why I have to state this: We only have what we have in
this country because human beings in all other parts of the world suffer
at our expense. This includes the wealth, freedom, and commodities we so
"enjoy". Until this changes, it will only get worse.
And please JJ, you do not need to prove to us, that you are "American",
we read your paper because you are not this. Don't be ashamed of who you
are. Don't be afraid. And tell this to all of your readers. It is not they
who committed those crimes. Why should they feel responsible?
In the same sentence, let them know that they need to be more educated
themselves as to how this global business is really functioning under the
dictation of the American government, and that they should support a leadership
that is more responsible. That, yes, is their responsibility.
Sara
* Tehran Mayor
Please excuse me that I do not speak Farsi. I have been trying to find
the email address of the Tehran Mayor's Office. Please convey the following
message to him
Mr. Mayor:
I write you as a private American citizen. I wish to thank you and the
People of the City of Tehran for it's kindnesses in expressing condelences
and conforting words for the castastrophe at the World Trade Center in New
York.
We are all brothers; let us live in peace as such.
William Rowland
Greenville, SC
* America not our only hope
In response to Babak Koohyar and his wishes for "God Bless America,
for she is our only hope": ["Our
problems come from within"]
I am saddened by the events of last Tuesday. Not only for the lives of
5000+ innocent people, but also for the fact that this only fuels the divisions
in society on an international level. The US is not a protector of freedom
and justice. Along with all the countries and individuals in the world,
it is only concerned with its own interests.
No one blames them for that, but unfortunately because they are the only
superpower in the world, they believe they have the moral high ground. Hiroshima,
Vietnam, Korea, Noriega, Nicaragua, Cuba, Pinochet, Shah, and even Afghanistan
are all examples of US self-interest, and willingness to impose sufferring
on others. I have not mentioned Iraq, Isreal, and Africa, because these
are more complex issues which involve the self-interest of other parties,
such as Europeans in Africa, Zionists in Isreal and despots such as Saddam
in Iraq.
Unfortunately America is not our only hope, or any hope at all. She is
a dangerous beast. When Cheney (the real President of USA) was asked why
Bin Ladan hates the US so much, his reply was: It must be his upbringing.
It seems that Americans cannot fathom that others may disagree with their
strategies, rightly or wrongly!
Bush's administration has tread a dangerous path since coming to power.
It has advocated isolationism, and unilateralism (Kyoto, Human Rights, Isreal,
China, Missile Defence). It seems that with these tragic events, we will
see an even more dictatorial and righteous America. I hope that the citizens
of the world unite and stamp out all violence and injustice. The lives of
a Vietnamese still suffering from Agent Orange is as precious as that of
a New Yorker.
May God Bless the World.
Ali Kelvin
London, England
* Yes you are naive
Writing a response to Mr. Babak Koohyar's article title "Our problems
come from within" has been a process of writing and revising my
comments. On one hand, I am left wondering how can someone with an Iranian
background be so "naive" (yes, Mr. Koohyar, you're naive) in actually
believing in some of the stuff that high school students in US are thought
regarding their country's role as the "leader of democratic world."
Yet, I do not think that I should let my own perspective to be the dominating
approach to writing a response, and I agree with the point we can't entirely
blame others for our own failures. So, I am just going to list, revisit
and refute every historical example that Mr. Koohyar has provided in proving
that "excluding Saudi Arabia, because of its extremely peculiar relations
with the US. The US has always pushed for freedom."
1) South Korea.
The political scene of South Korea during the past fifty years has witnessed
periods of violent crackdonws on student protests, repression of political
rights, authoritarian "presidents", and most notably military
dictatorships. I don't know by what account it could be considered democratic,
or an example to use for a successful democracy. Should we reminded that
there are 30,000 American troops stationed in South Korea and it received
large amount of US assistance for many years. Refer to any history book
regading South Korea.
2) Marshal Plan
It's true that thge US spent a huge amount of money rebuilding Europe.
The issue though, was not to institute democracy, after all democracy had
already taken foundation in Europe for hundreds of years. Indeed, Europe
is the birth place of modern democracy, and European societies had already
experienced it. The Marshal plan was to prevent Western Europe from "slipping"
into communism. The devastated economy of post-war Europe, high unemployment
and unfavourable social conditions had already made communism a very appealing
option among masses in Europe. It was under this notion and a belief in
a "strong" Europe that US spent millions rebuilding western European
countries "to stop the potential spread of communism westward."
3) Carter and Iran
Well, for one thing, I wasn't even born when the revolution happened,
so I refrain from making personal comments.
There is a great deal of controvesy with regards to why Carter "pressured"
the Shah on human rights. However, I find it rather hypocritical for the
"leader of free world" on one hand to ask an absolute monarch
to respect human rights, and at the same time to make a toast and call the
same monarch a stable and trusted ally in Middle East (a stable ally
what an irony!)
Lastly, I like to venture a little and try to clarify (at least for myself)
the meaning of "extremely peculiar". There just seems to be many
of these "extremely peculiar relationships" floating around:
- Iran (coup d'etat against Mossadegh)
- Guatemala (1954 coup)
- Chile (Pinoche coup / military dicatorship)
- Congo (CIA backing Mobutu, an army officer, forcing and then killing the
prime minister Lumumba)
- Iraq in the 80's (while using chemical warfare agains Iran and Iraqi Kurds)
- Turkey (what an excellent human rights records Turkey has!!!)
- Egypt (Mubark is more like president for life!!)
Cyrous Jame'
* Warmed my heart
I am still in total disbelief. I grew up in Iran during the revolution
and the war. I had visited Behesht-e Zahra when going to Behshet-e Zahra
was considered a field trip in Junior High.
I have never seen anything like this. The loss of so many innocent people.
I have carried my heavy heart since Tuesday and like so many other Iranians,
have hoped for any words from The Iranian Government that they too condemn
such an act.
The image of people jumping from the windows will never leave my mind.
I have felt the desperation, agony and anger of all people, black, white,
yellow, Muslim, Jew, Christian, any human being should be outraged at such
a violation to the freedom which this country stands for.
I have also seen the direct anger toward any Middle Eastern looking people.
I am one of them! even though I have lived here for 15 years, raising my
children and teaching them to be proud of who they are. I have taught my
children about the wonderful beauties of Iran. I have showed them pictures
of Shiraz and have told them about Hafez and Ferdowsi. I have also taught
them about the great country we live in. after all, they are half Americans,
and they need to be thankful for the freedom that this country has to offer.
I was watching a program yesterday with my 7-year-old in which the children
were asking their questions, voicing their concerns, fear, uncertainty that
we all feel. What my daughter told me warmed my heart and brought tears
into my eyes. She said to me, that she would have to pray for the bad people
who have done this so God will change their hearts and minds. Right Mom?
Of course it isn't that simple. Perhaps these people have no religion
whatsoever. They know no God, but I was moved by simplicity of my daughter's
heart. So I wanted to share that with all of you and offer my love to each
and every one of you.
N Klonaris
* America's product
Good Heavens! Your editorial, Sep. 16, 2001 ["Taking
a stand"], showered abundance of praise on America, most of it
undeserved.
Mr editor, you should have a balanced view, you are praising America
as if it is the promised land for Muslims and those who do good, i.e. Heaven.
Of course, America deserves some praise also. America is a free society
with abundance of freedom, perhaps too much, of which these terrorists on
Tuesday had made a bad use.
But America does not practice what it preaches. The Taliban is its and
Pakistan's making. Saddam was America's product, and see what he is doing
and did with them. Please do not go overboard in praising anybody.
Syed Wasi Imam
* Clarifying my dilemma
I just read a copy of your latest article posted on The Iranian
["Big
leap"], and want to thank you for clarifying my dilemma.
I am an Iranian-American, and have lived in this country since prior
to the revolution since I was 12- years old. U.S. is my first home, but
I feel very much Iranian and Iran is where I would like to buried when I
die.
For the past week I have been debating to buy the flag or not. I just
couldn't bring myself to do it. I thought I am betraying or cheating. At
the same time, I felt if I don't buy and display it, I am burying my anger
and frustration and denying all the good US has done for me.
But when I read your article, it became clear to me what I should do.
In fact, I will go and buy some at lunch time today.
We are citizens of the globe; and we just get confused when we have to
choose between nations and territorial borders.
Thank you. I feel a little better today than I did last Tuesday.
Regards,
Marjan
* Betraying every ideal of tolerance
I have just read online your editorial titled "Blond
or bearded" in The Iranian. I could not agree with you more.
As an American of northern European extraction I am absolutely appalled
and horrified to read and hear the reports that some Americans are now turning
on any Moslems or anyone who "looks Moslem" in their anger and
grief at the terrible events of this week.
Don't these people realize that they are putting themselves on the same
level as the original terrorists -- that they are betraying every ideal
of tolerance and diversity that we, as Americans, supposedly hold dear?
I am heartsick at the thought that you must now, as you say, be afraid on
two fronts.
I wish there were something more that I could do other than to send you
this email, participate in local rallies advocating tolerance, confront
my friends and acquaintances who make disparaging remarks against Islam.
This is not what America is about!
I hope and pray that things will not be as bad as you fear. May we all
have the strength and wisdom and compassion to get through this terrible
time without losing our humanity. May God bless you and keep you and your
family, your friends and fellow Americans of Iranian or other Middle Eastern
extraction, safe against any harm.
With my very best wishes,
Katherine Waser
* Embracing differences
Dear Setareh Sabety, ["Big
leap"]
I happened across your article on the Iranian website and I am sorry
that you are confused about the meaning of all the flag waving that is going
on. Sure, nationalism can get out of hand and causes much of the world's
ills, but how else can people be wrenched their little cocoons of insularity?
More culturaly isolated Americans are learning about the world, religious
differences and how American affects the world RIGHT NOW, since the bombings,
than anytime in the past several decades.
It is the job of writers such as yourself, in influential positions that
will be widely read, to trumpet the line of religious, ethnic and cultural
toleration. Teaching Americans to embrace differences will do more to cure
the cause of this terrorism than to bash Nationalistic flag waving.I look
forward to reading more of your critical writings in this time of healing
and education.
Sincerely,
Josh Gerak,
Seattle
* No long-term plan
First, let me state that I am an American citizen, and I appreciate the
condemnation of last Tuesday's terrorist bombings by your President Khatami.
The support of those who are voices of reason and thought are so rare and
needed. You have an exemplary President, in my opinion, and I hope the Iranian
people continue to keep him and similar such men of vision and wisdom in
public office.
I have followed events in the Middle East, as do so many, for decades
now. And, once again, there are so many things that seem askew in the American
government's approach to the terrorism plague. Though we have corrected
many short-comings recently, new problems seem in danger of being introduced.
For instance, why are we apparently planning to base combat aircraft
in Pakistan when that country's regime is so vulnerable to the Taliban and
Muslim extremist sabotage, attack and riot? Why not base our aircraft in
a more neutral nation like India, whose government has expressed more than
mere willingness to help us in this regard? There is a danger that by forcing
General Musharrif of Pakistan to more intimately support the US, that the
Taliban my foment unrest, insurrection and violence to topple him from power.
Stranger things have happened, and the Taliban does seem to be taking
a persistently long term view of the events they unleash. I cannot believe
that they do not have contingency plans for Pakistani assistance of US counter-strikes.
If the US does indeed base combat aircraft in Pakistan, I suspect will provoke
disaster.
Also, I do not understand why the US government is not doing all in its
power to aid and abet Massood's Northern Coalition. Though it is rumored
that he was assassinated, US aid to a selected replacement commander would
go very far in solidifying that man's support. We could fight the Taliban
by aiding their own indigenous enemies and requiring minimal direct intervention
on our part. But I see no sign that such open aid is in the plans for the
near future. But maybe they are being extra clever at this time and actually
being quiet about their "secret" plans? Well, maybe a leopard
can change its spots, after all.
While I see the American government applying force in retaliation of
the tragic events of last week, I do not see any long term approaches designed
to reduce the tensions in Isreali-Arab relations. This is the source of
all the problems, and there will be no long term solution unless Israel
learns to live in peace with its Arab neighbors or is destroyed. Israel
can continue to win war after war and they will still be in this terrible
predicament, but they cannot lose even once without being annihilated.
The American government can seem slow, at times, to sort things out that
are, truthfully, of tertiary importance to it. But they do learn quickly,
and I believe their heart is in the right place.
Anyway, your web site is impressive, filled with great information.
Good luck and thank you again for such a great man as President Khatami.
Richard Cheek
* Stay stong, Persians
I would first like to say that I am a first generation Iranian American.
I love America, the opportunities, the multitude of freedoms, basically
everything down to the fact that we can have 10 different places to eat
all within the same street thanks to one simple factor, competition. I think
it is a shame how "Americans" are lashing out against Muslims.
But as my aunt joked, even their criminals are being patriotic, they are
only looting the minority owned stores.
If we all look at ourselves, deep down inside or even at our own family
members, someone has a certain stereotype about a certain race, or religion.
But as representatives of the Middle East, we should not have let it gotten
to the point that we have to NOW explain what Islam preaches. It is too
late now, in a way, because most people already have their own prejudices
against us no matter what we say.
Every single one of us that were born here in the United States have
just as much a right to be here as the early settlers that came over from
Europe and conquered the Native Indians. If you take it to the root of how
this country came about, the only real Americans are those Native Americans.
Everyone else is a foreigner. So stay strong, Persians... remember at one
point in time we ruled much of what is now the Middle East.
Surely we will rise again.
Ossin
* Vote for me
It helped so much to relieve some of the grief I feel when I read the
letters of sympathy from
the Iranian people. God has saved my life 21 times since I was a baby. I
have traveled all over the world for 5 years and I have never had a day
where the weather interferred with my business -- God is with me. I have
guardian angels who look after me.
I was in Moscow, St. Petersburg & Samara 1st. of Feb. a year ago
for 7 days and I never had to put on my thermal underwear. Never in the
history of Russia did they have this nice weather in Feb.
Muslims are probably the most devout people on this earth. I pray that
God will open your eyes. What a great shock it will be to the terrorists
when they find out they are not in heaven.
Japan killed many Americans and we do a lot of business with them; Iranians
killed no Americans and we do no business with them.
I am running for U.S. Congress in the Primary in March 2002 in California,
if I am elected I will do my best to bring better relations between Iran
& the U.S.
Sincerely,
John C. Barker
* Propaganda war
I just want to thank you for this insightful and valuable information
that goes a long way to helping provide the Western world with some needed
background on the history of "how things got to be the way they are."
["Limbs
of no body"]
I was referred to it by a web site called "www.slashdot.com"
that is perused by hundreds of thousands of "computer geeks" each
day for breaking news of importance. Hopefully this will make a difference
in the tenor of American thought, or at least by the more educated Americans
who help form more thoughtful opinion.
While I am not an American, I "live next door" and am very
worried by the anger and lack of forethought being displayed since the Sept.
11 tragedy.
The rhetoric that raises the hair on my neck is the American media's
constant use of phrases like "ground zero", "nuclear winter"
and "Perl Harbour" as the proper metaphors of the tragedy in New
York.
They appear to be making an equivalence between this terrorist event
and having an atomic bomb dropped on NY, which is of course many magnitudes
of horror out of sync with what actually happened. 5,000 Americans does
not equal 500,000 Japanese (or Afghans) dying a fast or slow death from
radiation burns.
I think this is a serious escalation of war propaganda, especially since
we already know how the repercussions of Perl Harbour eventually turned
out for Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Next question is then, who owns the American media and how would this
serve their interests?
Thank you again for your very valuable contribution to getting a balanced
assessment of what's going on.
Peace,
Walter Cooke
Bermuda
* You are not alone
Regarding, "Limbs
of no body"
Thank you sir. Took some good thinking and time to write that article,
not to mention some courage on these early days. I guess the best thing
to tell you is a lot of us are aware of the situation and we are going to
change it.
When I hear the word American used in discussions overseas I realize
that they think the the Bush administration and the mainline American press
are speaking for me. Those talking heads are not me or my neighbors. I guess
the term "the military industrial complex" that Eisenhower warned
us about is out of fashion. Call it what you will. The same rigid minds
screw up our lives too.
Americans speak best as individuals. But It's always good to have company.
If I could talk for the rest of my goverment and friends I'd say "How
can we help?" As far as I'm concerned you are a caring articulate,
thoughtful man. If we were to meet I would pour you a cup of expresso and
invite you to talk. For some reason I would bet that your family treats
your guests well. So does mine. It really boils down to individuals does'nt
it?
All this is such a waste of time, that short amount of time we have here.
Your feelings of helplessness are the marks of a good man. All I can say
is the pen is mightier than the sword. I'd also say you just gave the greedheads
a good whack with yours. The only thing that is letting this continue is
ignorance. It would do a lot of good if more people were aware of your viewpoint.
Please make an effort to get this out. Many of the websites here have
not had a posting with this information in it. Try Bourkes --www.bourque.com--and
see if they'll run it. Email your article to every political columnist you
can think of. We have some good people in the States and in Canada. I found
you because I was looking for, and wanted to hear a voice from your people.
You, me, we are all the same. I want to play with my grandchildren.
Well, I'm strong enough to give people a fair chance, willing to share
with the rest of the planet, and determined to put some of this right. Thats
the kind of American I am and I am not alone in feeling this way.
I'll keep this short. I don't hate you or yours. I really don't know
anyone who does. I'm glad you were willing to speak out. We need diversity
in reporting to get a handle on this and to see where the truth lies. If
you got kids tell em theres a lot of people out here trying to protect them
and that we really do care. You are not alone.
Best wishes,
Jim Sofra
* You have made a difference
I read the article "Limbs
of no body" in The Iranian which you had been published
last June 20, and it was a very insightful and timely article, which I feel
everyone should read in the wake of the terrible events that have occured
in New York and Washington D.C. a week ago.
Part of your article touched me deeply, and I feel I need to react to
it: "I remember his words the day he came to our office expressing
how he felt his job and efforts were in vain and he wanted to become my
assistant. And even now that I've finished making Kandahar, I feel vain
about my profession. I don't believe that the little flame of knowledge
kindled by a report or a film can part the deep ocean of human ignorance.
And I don't believe that a country whose people in the next 50 years will
loose their hands and legs to anti-personnel devices will be saved by a
19-year old British girl. Why does she go to Afghanistan? Why does Dr. Kamal
Hossein with all his despair, still report to the UN? Why did I make that
film or write this note? I don't know, but as Pascal put it: 'The heart
has reasons that the mind is unaware of'."
This reminds me of an old Eddie Murphy movie I saw once, "Holy Man",
where Eddie Murphy's character recounts an incident where a great storm
has tossed many starfish to the sands of a beach. After the storm he sees
a little girl taking as many starfish as she can and throwing them back
into the sea, and he tells her that it's all useless and they're all going
to die anyway, so what's the point? The girl answers, as she throws another
starfish back into the ocean: "To that one it made a difference."
Perhaps the 19-year old British girl feels that every artificial limb
she makes will make a difference to the one who receives it. Maybe I, your
reader, am a little starfish you have thrown into the ocean of knowledge,
and to me you have made a difference.
Rafael R. Sevilla
* More informed
I just read your Afghanistan article in The Iranian ["Limbs
of no body"]. It took me some time to read, since English is not
my native language, and altough I feel said for their situation, I feel
it was extremely valuable, because I became more informed on what's going
on there.
There is a female Brazilian reporter called Ana Paula Padrão who
went to Afghanistan these last months and made a series of reports for the
Brazilian TV. One of the key points of her reports was when she interviewed
a female doctor who worked in secret because of the Taliban. The doctor
would say that she was doing it for her kids, because she believed that
was important.
Another thing I noticed, tough, is that this reporter sees Afghans with
a strong united spirit, different than the tribalism you write about. I
guess you are more experienced than her, so I guess you are right. She says:
"When we crossed the border, coming from Pakistan, I asked a little
8-year-old boy where we were, and he did not give us the name of a city
or a village, he answered with conviction and pride: 'This is my country,
Afghanistan'."
Thanks in advance,
Roberto Jung Drebes
* Who was responsible?
In this early morning of Monday Sept.17, life in this part of the world
is getting back to normal.The airports are open and the airlines have resumed
their flights although sluggishly.The market is supposed to open on time
and the Federal Reserve Board has reduced the interest rate by 0.50% hastily
to protect the market from sharp declines and sell offs.
Overseas, life is the same.Israelis and Palestinians are at each others
neck with Sharon refusing to agree with the pending talks with Palestinians
to go on, inspte of his foreign minister's objection(arrogance,ignorance
, stupidity or all of the above?).
The president has spoken repeatedly in the strongest possible tone by
declaring the war on terrorism and is determined to eradicate this evil
by all the military and political tools.
And yet to my amazment there has not been a word of getting to the roots
of the problems.
I can understand this kind of naivete from a nation with 200 years of
history but I can not understand the same kind of behavior or even worse,
say from a nation with a few thousand years of history, during which at
some points, she had reached to the brinks of extinction ... FULL
TEXT
Peerooz
* Got to educate
Using "Terror" on the front
page of iranian.com is a bit out of place. Yes a lot of innocent people
got killed for no reason, no justification even thou many Palestinians have
gone thru terror for number of years, and many Iranian and Iraqi families
lost loved ones in wars manipulated by good old USA.
I think it would be better to have damage control measures in place.
Peace oriented type messages would be more appropriate. Got to educate Americans
and Iranians about politics of the world.
"Terror" is what FOX News and military forces are pumping into
americans' brain 24/7 since last tuesday. You have more responsibilities
by selecting this dotcom address, you got to act responsible.
Let's not forget our so-called freedom and cheap gas in this country
is what the government offering in exchange of silence and ignorance of
what they do and what they control overseas for big boys. Yes , the cheap
gas we consume in Silicon Valley or any place in this land is at expense
of most underclass arab/Iranian people whose government is whoring for U.S.
corporations/big boys.
I also found the article "Holy
smoke" extremely out of place as well, and am glad someone else
pointed to it.
For every gallon of gas we consume, we should donate a dollar to a cause
for kids in Middle East. It's their money/future passed on to us for cheap
by way of Arco/Cheveron ....
Lastly, thanks for all your efforts. I understand this is your baby and
you are learning as you go....
B Macui
* Just because they are Muslim
Excellent article Mr. Javid ["Taking
a stand"]. It's too bad many people in America are ignorant to
the fact that these despicable acts were done by ultra radical people. It
angers me somewhat that threats and violence are done to completely innocent
people of Arabic descent in this country and probably elsewhere.
A person has a right to believe in whatever religion they want, not only
here but all over the world and just because they are Muslim doesn't automatically
make them an evil person. People need to get educated to that fact and stop
the discrimination at once.
I believe there's enough hatred in the world the way it is without making
things worse for innocent people.
Best regards,
Lou Rybij
* Follow Jeses
I have just read your very astute online editorial, "Holy
smoke".
I am a Christian Japanese-American Veteran of WWII and can identify with
some of your thoughts and concerns, in some small measure, as you sort through
the aftermath of last Tuesday's attack on America by Islamic radical terrorists.
Your title, Holy Smoke, intrigues me because it alludes to the fact that
you must perceive the situation as transcending the powers of mankind and
belies your religion, Islam. Thank you very much for your cry out to your
nation to take stock of what the false prophets of Islam have done and are
doing. Satan is a powerful evil force and must be dealt with.
In times like these, may I share with you that fifty years ago, I made
a choice to follow after Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and since then
the Peace of God, that transcends all understanding, has guarded my heart
and mind in Christ Jesus.
That is not to say that I was not awed by Satan's evil attack on America
for all of the world to witness on TV, but I am not destroyed or shaken
because I already know that this was a strike against God and not just America
and I have hope and assurance of His Victory.
Jesus said "I am the way the truth and the life, no man comes to
the Father except by me."
Thank you for your attention and be assured that we will pray for God's
Grace, Mercy and Peace upon you.
George Oiye
* It is your choice
You people must make a choice at this time. The die has been cast and
if you wish to live in the world comunity you must accept Americans as part
of that global whole. You imprison people of other faiths or your own government
outright slaughters them(Kurds).
Now your government and religous fanatics have brought you to the edge
of the cliff and if you wish we Americans will surely push you off. It is
not a religous matter for us, it is survival and the protection of our way
of life.
We have a choice here in America, as an open, free, democratic society.
Wishing to stay that way we must choose: either we stay free and in diong
so remove any of you people who wish us harm and negate your country as
a threat, or we relinquish our rights and liberty to protect ourselves from
you.
I think you can already see the direction we have chosen. The common
man has the true power and if you wish peace then you must show you are
willing to earn it. Rise up, overthrow your heartless violent corrupt governments
and we will leave you in peace. Defy us and perish. It is your choice.
Bret Andrysiak
* IRI too will be held accountable
Dear Mr. "Joker" Peerooz ["Thank
god he opened his mouth "],
Even the grinning face of Khatami or his condemnation of the terrorist
acts against the USA (in this instance) cannot hide the evil face of the
Islamic Republic.
Thanks god, it seems clear that the most heinous acts of terrorism commited
in the US last week had nothing to do with any Iranian. Therefore, Americans
(or their allies) have no reason to retaliate against Iran for these evil
acts.
Nevertheless, how can the Islalic Regime deny the facts that since its
conception thier main slogan has been "Marg bar Amrika" and their
principal enemy has been "The Great Satan"? and how can they hide
all the evidence of their overt and continious support of terrorism and
terrorist groups/organisations?
Regardless of your feeble attempt to misrepresent Reza Pahlavi's comments,
he is only stating the truth about the IRI. Rest assured that in the course
of the strategic war against terrorism, IRI too will be held accountable
for their actions (not necessarily by military means).
Peace and freedom.
R. Sardar
* Important lesson
I am a regular reader of your site and enjoy the articles and pictures.
I just wanted to share a thought with you and your readers.
I have at times asked of myself what is really important in life, or
what is the actually true meaning of life? I am under the assumption that
I may not be the only person that has either thought or asked this question.
I (like millions of others) have watched and the news and shed tears
for this shocking, sickening and monstrous catastrophe. Each day more pictures,
videos, and statements are shown. While sadly taking all this in and trying
to get somewhat of a grasp of what kind of world we live in, I have come
to an important realization.
It has been reported that many individuals had made contact with their
loved ones at the moment the terrorism was taking place. They all called
to say what is happening and to say that they loved their husbands, children,
mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and other family members.
It dawned on me that ALL these people when faced with the last moments
of their lives came to one conclusion and that is the MOST important thing
to do (the last thing they wanted to do before leaving this life) was to
tell the ones most important and close to them that they loved them. So
we should learn from this tremendous loss and realize that all that really
matters during our duration in this life is to love each other and make
sure that those close to us know we love them and feel that we love them.
This should be the most important thing for all of us. In our community
we find jealousy, pride, anger, resentment and greed. Well, I think that
it is time we seriously reevaluated our priorities. If you are reading my
words and you are mad at your mother, sister, friend or you simply have
neglected in showing your love to the ones around because you assume they
now, then please take the time to let them know how much their existence
and health and being is cherished by you.
We don't know if we will ever have a chance to make the last call. All
those that had that chance did call to say I love you and good-bye. Blood
has been shed, and I say this with fear, more shall be shed. Let us open
our eyes and find something to take from all this, something to learn so
that the torch we pass to the next generation bears the light of this fire
in a promising bright future for them.
Fargol Nassiri
California
* We have to wise up
My name is Melissa. I was reading your newspaper artical "I'm afraid,
pops". I'm sorry but I did not even find it funny. I don't see
how you can joke at a time like this in America. These people who did this
are sick. God will punish them in their time.
For now when we get ahold of them they will get the death chair and even
though I am highly against the death penalty but, damn, they killed a lot
of innocent people.
It's really depressing to know someone can just not even think about
how they are going to change the lives of others. If they actually thought
about how they would feel if this happened to them or one of their loved
one's I don't think they would do it.
They should just think " How would I feel if My spouse was in this
building when it got blowed up and now I don't know if she is dead or alive.
I dont know if she is in one piece or if she is in any pain".
I think if they put themselves in that position all crime and terrorism
will stop. One day we will have peace on earth. We just have to wise up
as people. Think about each other. Learn to watch out for one another and
learn to solve arguments without violence and war. We need to just sit down
and talk things out. I just hope I will live to see the day that happens.
Let God bless us all in this time of sorrow have strangth in the future
to unite with each other and have peace on earth.
Thanks for listening to my thoughts
Love,
Melissa
Age 17 USA
* Not all Americans want blood
I'm an American (35-year old-female living in the midwestern part of
the US) scanning the internet in the wake of Tuesday's events in our country.
I have been reading about the culture of the Middle East from the source
of the people (though I am limited to the english language, so I have only
been able to read english language sites... but I have checked out others
and have taken interest in pictures and graphics).
I am certain that the American media does not accurately portray Mideast
culture. I am so very saddened about the events of this week. I don't want
war. It makes me sick to think that we as humans just cant all co-exist
peacefully, regardless of our cultural and/or ideological differences. I
get the impression that the general population there is not much different
than the population here.
We all have families, friends and interests. We all love our children
and hope for bright futures, no matter what the ethnicity. It makes me sad
to think that our world is not the same. I don't want to be afraid for the
future, I want to embrace it.
I have often thought that it must just be so scary and horrible to be
"on the alert" for terrorist activity all the time. How can you
relax like that? How do you let your guard down? When do the kids just get
to be kids? Thank you for your support regarding Tuesday's tragedy.
Please don't think that all Americans want blood. That thought turns
my stomach. I want peace for all of us and for our unique ways of life...Muslim,
Christian, Jewish, Bhuddist, Hindu, Pagan, or whatever.
Sorry for rambling, I was really just stopping by to say thanks.
Peace,
Janie T.
Ohio, USA
* What is Islam?
It is a fact that September 11, 2001 is the "Darkest
day" for all mankind, but the writer has tried very hard to show
that Islam is a religion of mercy and compassion.
When you read the Quran, all you read about is killing. Rarely do you
find anything as mercy and affectionate. Khomaini is another example. When
he, in the name of Islam, orders to kill prisoners, what can you say?
You may say it is not Islam. Then what is Islam? Why can'ty anyone able
to show it?
Siavash Amani
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