US Muslim group: Muslims must rally to counter radicalization

Recent media reports suggest that a young Somali man from Seattle was responsible for a September suicide bombing in Mogadishu that killed 21 African Union peacekeepers. The bomber’s identity has yet to be confirmed by federal authorities.

Radicalization is a complex process that continues to vex law enforcement officers and Muslim leaders alike. MPAC says in its report that the path to extremism usually beings with social or economic discontent and alienation – creating “the labor pool or 'market for martyrs,' that terrorist firms seek to recruit from.”

The council adds that the police should focus on "criminal behavior while Muslim communities deal with ideological and social components to radicalization."

At a Friday press conference to release the report, Haris Tarin, head of MPAC's Washington office, said it represents efforts by Muslim groups like his to "capture the narrative from those who seek to misguide the young people."

Channeling frustration with US foreign policy

Some other groups are skeptical about such efforts, however. They say one motive for radicalization is the fact that the US is currently at war in parts of the Muslim world.

"The only thing we can do is try to deal with the religious implications of that narrative. In other words, what is the Islamically correct way for American Muslims to respond to the fact that the US is at war with Muslims in some parts of the world?," said Kamran Memon of Muslims For A Safe America in an e-mail.

"One option is anti-American violence designed to try to change American foreign policy toward the Muslim world. Another option is political activism designed to try to change American foreign policy towards the Muslim world. But grassroots American Muslims are not convinced about the usefulness of political activism," he said. "Of course, the third option is to simply do nothing. That's the option that has been chosen by the majority of American Muslims."

Mr. Memon suggests more political activism is the answer. "Political activism can channel American Muslim frustration and energy regarding America's actions in the Muslim world."

See also:

Five Americans arrested in Pakistan don't fit typical profile

David Headley case: What's behind spate of US-based terrorist plots?

Fort Hood shootings: US Muslims feel new heat

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