Free Essays on Terrorism: Give Peace a Chance :: September 11 Terrorism Essays

Give Peace a Chance Since the horrible tragedy that occurred on September 11th, Americans are brainstorming for ideas on how to fight terrorism. Minds are collaborating on what can be done to reconcile the West in the minds of Islamic nations. Many strategies for attaining peace have been introduced, and steps are being made toward the appeasement of differences. The ideas for peacemaking that have already been set in motion will be discussed in Section 1, and new suggestions for reconciliation will be introduced in Section 2. SECTION 1: Both political and private associations in the United States have introduced wonderful ideas that have begun the process of reconciliation between Islam and the West. In the political faction, Bush visited a mosque after the terrorist attacks to show support for American Muslims. He declared that terrorism "is not the true faith of Islam. That's not what Islam is all about. Islam is peace. These terrorists don't represent peace-they represent evil and war." (http://www.beliefnet.com/). This act gained Bush the support of American Muslims who had been persecuted since the attacks. It also served as a testimony for other Muslim countries that this war was not a religious matter. Unfortunately, since Bush's demonstration, Osama bin Laden has misled Muslims into believing this is indeed a jihad. In a speech he gave on November 3rd, he declares, "It is a question of faith, not a war against terrorism, as Bush and Blair try to depict it" (http://news.bbc.co.uk/). One of Osama bin Laden's top lieutenants explained, "The root of terrorism is in the conflict in Palestine." It is believed that if war stops in the Middle East, more than half the battle of ending terrorism is won. Previously, the United States has sided with the Israelites over the Palestinians. Secretary of State Colin Powell made a speech indicating that Bush is taking a more diplomatic stance in bringing peace to the Middle East. Instead of being exceedingly pro-Israel, the speech was directed at both sides and created an emotional appeal each could relate to (New York Times Nov. 15th). This new position will allow each side to feel comfortable in the negotiation process and will hopefully get a step closer to peace. When the United Stated defeated the Taliban, it gained the respect of Afghanis. Although there were a few mis-hits in the bombings, Afghanis realize that all the targets were directed at military sites.