Violent Muslim Extremism Flagrantly Dares the World A Critical Reflection

Abstract

This editorial reflects on an aspect of the root causes of the current refugee
and migrant influx into Europe: Can the Muslim world’s extremist elements,
who brazenly continue to dare the international community, be decisively defeated
so that peace and tranquility can be restored to the Middle East and the
world at large? I contend that this menace can be decisively eliminated. However,
and most importantly, the international community – all of its potentials,
commitments, and declarations notwithstanding – lacks a genuine unity of
purpose and a strong will to defeat it.
A Brief Clarification
The definition of a terrorist is simple and clear, and yet there is no consensus
or objectivity on whom and how to apply it.1Although any individual or group
that terrorizes others can be described as terrorist, people tend to ascribe it only
to those with whom they disagree (mainly Muslims). Thus when their “kind”
or allies engage in similar acts they are not terrorists.2All those who use violence
to terrorize others need to be labeled terrorists, regardless of their political
and religious affiliations. I employ violent Muslim extremists here because it
accurately describes the people I have in mind: Those Muslims who are violent
and extremist, and nobody else. But terrorist can – and should – be applied to
anyone who uses violence against others ...