23 September 2010

Qaradawi, Quilliam and Bob Pitt

Bob Pitt, who runs the Islamophobia Watch blog, has attacked the Quilliam Foundation for their criticism of Islamist ideologue, Yusuf al-Qaradawi.

Pitt is a big fan of Qaradawi's, and has rigorously defended him in the past. Now, I could bore readers with yet another analysis and explanation of Qaradawi's extreme positions regarding suicide bombing, femal genital mutilation, homosexuality and Jews, but that's not necessary because this video says it all really: [Standpoint] Read more

A reply to George Readings on Qaradawi The Quilliam Foundation claims to be a think-tank combating extremism, particularly within the Muslim community. However, as the recently leaked briefing document “Preventing terrorism: where next for Britain?” has demonstrated, Quilliam’s real objective is to misrepresent and smear those mainstream Muslim organisations and individuals who are the leading forces in countering extremist interpretations of their faith. [Socialist Unity] Read more

Why Ken Livingstone Is Pamela Geller There is an excellent piece by George Readings at Left Foot Forward. It is a response to a recent interview with Ken Livingstone, in which he states: I think the fact that Sheikh Qaradawi has been banned is a disgrace; he is one of the leading progressive voices in the Muslim world

Livingstone also says: Although there’s a huge smear campaign organized by Zionists. When I met this man …. he’s a progressive, humble person who is looking at how Islam can engage with the rest of the world and we should support him. [Harry’s Place] Read more

Livingstone: Al-Qaradawi is a “leading progressive voice” in Muslim world Should a man who supports wife-beating, FGM, and either lashing or killing homosexuals, really be considered a “progressive”?

In an interview with Ahmed Versi of The Muslim News, Labour Mayoral candidate and former London mayor, Ken Livingstone, appeared to suggest that he should. [Left Foot Forward] Read more