American Muslim Terrorists?

Submitted by Ed Gordon (Israel), Dec 13, 2005 at 06:14

American Muslims, and their possible connection to domestic and international terrorism has been under scrutiny for years. Even before the Al Qaeda attacks of September 11, 2001, and stemming from the aftermath of the 1991 Gulf War, Muslim radical groups and so-called "sleeper cells" have been monitored continuously by U.S. Government authorities. Even in the Oklhahoma City bombing in 1995, Terry Nichols, the associate of convicted and executed bomber Tim McVey, has been alleged to have had direct connections to Muslim terror groups such as the Abu Sayaaf organization, based on the southern Philippine island of Mindinao.

Even if the number of Muslims living in America, who are 'actively' engaged in terrorist activities, are relatively few in number, their activities are still worrisome and could contribute to future acts of terrorism on American soil - especially with it being more difficult for Islamic terrorists outside of the United States to enter on student and temporary work visas. A well established network of 'safe houses' are probably located all over America to offer aid and comfort to terrorists as well.

The borders between the U.S. and it's northern and southern neighbors, Canada and Mexico, is still much too 'porous' and would-be terrorists can gain entry at will.

Another factor is the great increase in Americans converting to Islam, with some becoming drafted into terrorist organizations. This matter become reality when some of these were found in Afghanistan and other areas more recently, such as Kashmir.

And lastly, who is monitoring what is being preached by the Immams of American Mosques each Friday? Even so called 'moderate' Muslims, especially those who participate on the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, mix with Muslims from all over the world during this week long affair, often remaining in Saudi Arabia for a period of time afterwards. Who is to say who they meet there during this period?

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