Afghan President Hamid Karzai, raising questions about the success of the US-led war on terror, on Monday said that the Muslim world was in a state of tumult and questioned whether the international campaign against terror had reduced or further fuelled radicalism.
Addressing a US-Islamic World Forum – titled A Decade of Dialogue – the president said he had repeatedly taken up the issue with US President Barack Obama and other western leaders.
“Have we succeeded in this war against terror? Have we agreed on defining terror? Who is a terrorist and does the menace exist inside Afghanistan’s villages and homes? Have we paid heed to real terrorist sanctuaries?” the president questioned.
In a statement from the Presidential Palace, he claimed the anti-terror drive had certainly boosted radicalisation across the Muslim world – from Pakistan and Afghanistan to Mali and Nigeria. “Is it an unexpected outcome or is the west doing so intentionally?
“In my opinion, it’s necessary for the US-led west to explain to Muslims they are impartial in the Israel-Palestine conflict. Have they conveyed this impression? The answer is obviously in the negative,” the president remarked.
Karzai explained did not want Israel to be wiped off the world map. He wanted the Israelis to live in their country like all other nations, but said that the Palestinians should be given similar rights.
He urged the Islamic world, the United States and the west to work together for promoting tolerance and spirit of peaceful coexistence. He also called for sharing resources and know-how to ensure welfare and prosperity for all.
In his speech, Karzai renewed his administration’s call for Britain to transfer around 80 Afghans being held at Camp Bastion in southern Helmand province to his administration within the next two weeks.
