Browsing by Author "Senzai, Farid"

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    Response to the 9/11 Commission Report
    (Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU), 2004-11-01) Senzai, Farid
    In response to the 9/11 Commission Report, Farid Senzai critiques the recommendations and underlying assumptions of the report. The Commission calls for a coalition strategy involving Muslim nations to combat terrorism, which Senzai views as a positive step that American Muslims should support. However, Senzai argues that the U.S. has mishandled its relations with the Muslim world, relying on neoconservative "experts" whose views have exacerbated anti-American sentiment. He stresses the need for a clear definition of terrorism, criticizing the Commission for conflating Islamist terrorism with terrorism in general, which risks aligning with extremist rhetoric. Senzai emphasizes that a multifaceted approach involving political, diplomatic, and military means, and closer cooperation with American Muslims, is essential for a successful long-term strategy against terrorism.
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    War Will Not Bring Democracy to the Middle East
    (Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU), 2003-02-01) Senzai, Farid
    Advocates of the Iraq War argued that regime change would catalyze a democratic wave across the Middle East. However, this perspective is misguided. Historical precedents, such as the 1953 CIA coup in Iran and recent experiences in Afghanistan, demonstrate that democracy cannot be imposed through military intervention. Instead, war is likely to increase regional instability and repression, fueling anti-American sentiment. True democracy promotion requires non-military approaches, as evidenced by Secretary of State Powell's $25 million democratic initiative for the Middle East. The article concludes that war with Iraq is unlikely to bring democracy to the region and may exacerbate existing tensions.