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In an e-mail-based dialogue, sponsored by IslamOnline.net’s Muslim Affairs section, American student David Mauldin and Palestinian student Tasneem Shaer discuss Hamas's victory in the Palestinian elections and the challenges that the new government faces. Below are some of the comments we received from our readers.
What do you think of this dialogue? Which argument do you support? E-mail us your comments: mideast@islamonline.net.*
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Muslims have to promote the Palestine question in Western media.
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I think that what should be done by the Palestinians in particular and Muslims in general is promote the Palestine question in Western media. It is good to build credibility in the media by training Muslims and sincere non-Muslims to talk about the issue.
The other thing that Muslims have to do is create alternatives by looking for support from other regions/countries, especially China, India, Russia, and so on. Muslims should benefit from other regions' development. Looking for alternatives might put some pressure on the West. But don't ignore the West completely. Still, we should get something from them. Our objective is to achieve peace, freedom, and fairness.
Abu Mumby
April 23, 2006
May the Almighty bring arrogant people to their senses for the cause of saving humanity.
I cannot help repeating the words of David Mauldin, who patriotically, honestly, and beautifully depict the US domestic and foreign policies in just one sentence: “Our [US] immense power is causing immense harm and ... our freedoms are being eroded from within.” What a hit-to-the-point sentence it is!
I believe that the vast majority of the Americans would agree with David on most of the issues he raised if only they were as informed as he is and if only they are freed from the constant disinformation campaigns through mostly one-sided American media.
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Most Americans would agree with David if only they were as informed as he is.
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America looks like as if it is not in control of itself, for otherwise with the approval of the affected and the oppressed, it would have been able through its influence and power to change positively the face of this fragile world we are living today. It is a great nation placed on a wrong path by behind-the-scene policy makers who seemingly do not care about the general well-being of the country.
I read that David feels pity towards the Palestinians and thinks that, by Hamas recognizing Israel, Palestinians may be saved from their final extermination by the militarily powerful Israel in the disguise of stemming terrorism. I wish Hamas openly does that and David sees the outcome. I have no doubt it will make no difference. There is a lot for David to learn to come to that conclusion.
Hassan M. Aden
Phoenix, Arizona
April 19, 2006
Assalamu alaikum,
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This is an excellent way to build bridges.
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So far I have read two parts — mashallah! I am so happy to read that students are engaging in dialogue from two sides of the world. This is an excellent way to build bridges; is it possible we can open up pen pals between Western Caucasians and Muslims from Mideast backgrounds? A dialogue between Christians and Muslims is needed, especially at a time when neo-conservatives are throwing hate messages about Islam.
Tasneem and David both bring in valid viewpoints. I agree that the West should recognize Hamas if they wish that Hamas does the favor of recognizing Israel in the near future. Whether Hamas recognizes Israel or not, this does not resolve the issue of stability and peace between the two states.
Afifa
April 18, 2006
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