Response to the 9/11 Commission Report

Abstract

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.