The arrests in the synagogue/jihad case in New York are terrifying, of course; and a reminder that anti-Semitism is a live force even in the U.S. Also a reminder that the Palestinian issue is likely to be deeply disruptive in the Middle East if there is no progress soon (as Khalidi and King Abdullah say). Here's a great response from the Council on American-Islamic Relations
CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad said:
“We applaud the FBI, the New York Police Department and the other law enforcement agencies that took part in the investigation for their efforts in helping to prevent any harm to either Jewish institutions or to our nation’s military.
"We repeat the American Muslim community’s repudiation of bias-motivated crimes and of anyone who would falsely claim religious justification for violent actions. Members of the American Muslim community should remain vigilant in reporting any activities that could harm the safety and security of our nation or its citizens.”
CAIR also requested that media outlets and public officials refrain from linking this case to mainstream Islam and to challenge those who will inevitably exploit this disturbing incident to promote anti-Muslim fear and stereotypes.
