In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

VICTOR, FAIRFAX, VIRGINIA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:06:53 GMT

AND THEY SAY ISRAEL HAS A NEGATIVE IMAGE. THEY CAN ALL GO TO HELL

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:10:30 GMT

Ahhhh, the religion of peace....

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dee Wichita Ks — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:11:02 GMT

Its a shame when you obey a religeon because your afraid of it. when you are told what to wear, when to shave, when to take a bath. what you can and cannot eat. I bet if they tried pork they would eat bacon every morning.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Richard — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:15:13 GMT

If you think this is a terrible state of affairs for Pakistan, it is also happening in France's muslim slums. When do you think it will start in New york's muslim neighborhoods? I think sometime right after the liberals make enough noise to get us out of the middle east.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Allison Antonelli — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:15:51 GMT

But Islam is the religion of peace. This and all of the other overwhelming evidence to the contrary must be a lie. I blame George Bush.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mary L., Cleveland, OH — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:17:07 GMT

I say we just blow all them idiots up!!! How ridiculous that these men aren't allowed to shave!! A crime punishable by DEATH!???! I can't wait for the day when these Taliban finally get what's coming to them!!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Willan Thompson Grenada West Indies — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:23:51 GMT

I believe the pakistani leader should quickly correct this situation before it becomes worse. No man should have to live in fear of having a shave of his beard.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Joe American — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:26:03 GMT

Kill the Taliban. The only solution. You can't reason with a wild animal.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bill Marino, Ann Arbor, MI — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:32:19 GMT

Sounds like you need to find a new religion. Perhaps Islam is an abortion of God's truth. When will you people all understand that God is inside of us all and not outside, over here or over there. I hope for your own sakes that you listen to your inner voice and see the oneness of us all and just Love God!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jon, Houston, Texas — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:35:34 GMT

"The government is unable to protect us" This is the exact reason the troops should invade the Pakistan tribal areas. Pakistan is doing nothing to reign in terror.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Danish Zuberi, Karachi Pakistam — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:45:21 GMT

They are up against shaves, music, and women rights yet these Pashtuns are very comfortable with usury, their centuries old profession. Usury or giving loans is forbidden in Islam to an extent that Allah says in Quran, those who insist on usury are waging war against Allah. The Almigthty has permitted an economy of profit sharing, venture capitals, shared capital and profit but interst based lending is more abhored than pork. What we see in Bajaur or Afghanistan or Pakistan or nay where else in the world is a conflict of religion and culture. The Talibans are mixing up culture with religon. If they are out to destroy the vice they must start from top, moneylenders who trap poor people and corporate executives alike and lure them in a short term agreement of 'ten per cent per month' at this rate a loan takes ages to retire with principal setteled and paid out a number of timed over. But these moneylenders are the main channel through which Taliban and thier goons get the funds after all the formal channels were blocked.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

an analyst — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:46:13 GMT

Immediately after 9/11, for several months the US should have 1 hunted down al-Qaeda around the world (the entire world was willing to support us), 2 carried out a massive carpet-bombing campaign against Taliban troop locations, and 3 threatened to 1 crush the Pashtun and 2 to turn the country over to the northern Afghanis if the Pashtun did not turn over Taliban members. We should have then pulled completely out of Afghanistan. The Middle East would have learned that assaulting the US meant only death and destruction. We would have been seen as powerful and a country to be feared and left alone. People would have seen al-Qaeda as weak and would not have seen it as salvation for Sunni Moslems and therefore bin-Laden would not have been able to attract support.have been able to attract support.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Benjiwolf, Pocahontas, AR — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:47:54 GMT

Quote: "Bajaur is the smallest and perhaps the most inaccessible of Pakistan’s seven Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). The tribal areas or agencies, as they are called, are semi-autonomous and have always been just outside the laws of the government of Pakistan. This is a holdover from the British Raj; the empire that separated British-run India from Afghanistan before Pakistan was created. The colonial British decided it was better to allow the fiercely independent Pashtun tribes that inhabit the tribal areas to run their own affairs, according to their own tribal customs and laws. And the Pakistanis continued this arrangement." Since it has independence, we should declare war on Bajaur. It is an obvious "hole-in-the-wall" hideout for terrorists. Mr. Bush, listen closely... "this is where your war should have been and should be now.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 13:51:28 GMT

Wow, what a surprise...Muslims killing their own people over something as minor as shaving. The religion of peace strikes again! They'd rather keep a murderer/rapist alive, (Hey, he's got a beard, ya know??), than a good person who is clean-shaven. That obviously makes sense. Next up...no brushing of your teeth or you'll be stoned!!!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dave Anderson — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:03:09 GMT

Now this is a country where the ACLU could really do some good. Perhaps we should send them there. The Taliban are obviously just the lastest version of The Third Reich. Apparently the Taliban have a lot time on their hands.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

john doe, wash — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:04:53 GMT

can not bic shavers be air droped? turn the tables a little? promote unity and self defense in addition to forming posses to capture taliban? what about loud speakers playing music - to draw in taliban who would not be able to resist comming near to try and destroy the speakers - which could be activated via sattlite [sic]...

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jeff Mathis Malabar, Fl — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:04:56 GMT

The Taliban are enjoying a resurgance in remote areas because the Bush administration redirected resources to a usless unnecessary war. Because of a lack of boots on the ground in Afganistan The Taliban was not destroyed when we had the chance. President Bush has bungled the effort by his lack judgment and poor leadership. Mission accomplished?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Virgil Koon, Coleman, Mich. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:05:08 GMT

Is it not interesting that those who proclaim a certain religion have governments that restrict freedoms to the point of having a beard? Can any of us understand just how precious freedom really is? Freedom to worship God, self, or another is a right even though some worship, such worhipping a President or a king is foolhardy. My idea is a good one. For those who gave the U.S. and Israel bad marks, let them loose their right to worship who they want and all must wear a beard and join Islam as their faith. NO CHOICE! Some would not care in loosing all, until it hit them what they had lost!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mohammed Hassanali, Paris, France — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:09:49 GMT

As long as illetracy reigns this inhospitable region in all manners, stupidness of such kind will continue as illetracy and ignorance are the worst things that a human can have. As a practising Muslim, I know for sure that keeping or shaving up a beard is Sunnah (Choice of the Prophet PUBH)and not a religious obligation)

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bill Adams, Columbia, SC — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:12:10 GMT

Does anyone doubt that the Taliban would export their Islamic extremism to the western world if given a chance. They do not want peacful coexistance. They want world domination. The US and her allies must fight them with all our might wherever we find them. It may take decades or even generations, but they must be defeated and eradicated.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Larry — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:14:16 GMT

And perhaps we wonder why it is important to be in Iraq ? And not to give in to this sort of thing ?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bill W. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:15:23 GMT

It's just another example of the intolerance and idiocy of Islamic extremists.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Pete Sanchez 3rd — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:19:53 GMT

Vengeance is not ours to take. Let us leave it up to the Lord. We need to leave these savages to there own devices in killing themselves. We can help each other by buying the opium from Afghanistan to make our own legitimate medicines and allow them to do what they will with the rest. There is no real attempt to abolish the illegal drug use in this country and most other parts of the world anyhow. The underground economy created by the drug trade is too large and to important to society's financial well-being to put an end to. If or when any of those unsavory creatures does major damage to life of the United States, our resdponse should be swift, exact, devastating, and for sure. I am sick and tired of this "drawn-out-drama' of a response our leaders subject us to.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mike , Jackson, MS — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:21:06 GMT

Proving yet again that facisim is alive and well in the Islamic world. We are right for fighting them. My only regret is that more people don't realize that there are no "moderate" Muslims. The "silent majority" of moderate muslims are guilty by complicity and sitting by accepting this sort of behavior. Yet at the same time people blast the US government for taking a stand against this. Wait until this behavior starts in the streets of London or Paris. Who's gonna be crying then?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mickel Lampkin, Dallas, TX — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:24:04 GMT

Life in other countries can be viewed burtal, but we as a people must unite to free our brothers and sister's from fear. We are all born with a choice, and to choose what ever make's you happy. Who are we to play God w/ other people's lives. Let one be responsable for one's actions and learn to live and let live together in peace..

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

ANEESA, SOUTH AFRICA, JHB — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:31:02 GMT

IT IS A SUNNATH OF OUR PROPHET MUHAMMED (SAW) TO HAVE A BEARD THE LENGTH OF YOUR FIST. IF THEY ARE TRUE MUSLIMS, THEY WILL KEEP THEIR BEARDS.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

jeremiah, springfield — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:36:37 GMT

The most serious problem is that the people of that region are cowards and don't stand up for themselves. If they would take the fight back to these fundamentalist nutjobs, then they would not have the problems that they have today. People like Zareenullah, and Nasir are pathetic little pukes without a backbone. If the people of that region don't have the courage to stand up to their oppressors than they deserve whatever fate befalls them.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dee Willie — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:37:25 GMT

How about the "Talibanization" of America...with thugs like Adolph Bush in power, and his fellow thugs like Falwell, Robertson and such, if they had their way EVERY THING would be "unholy' except sitting on your behind and reading the bible!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

joe ledoux — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:39:40 GMT

A perfect example of how clinging to the retarded tenets of any religion rots the mind and prevents progress. Idiots!!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jay, White Bear Lake, Mn. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:42:45 GMT

I cannot believe this supposedly educated tribe in today's world believe that by gaining power through intimidation and fear that they will somehow progress as a culture? Seems to me the region of people as a hole cannot live without conflict because of there backward century's old belief's!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Habeeb Al-Zabeebe — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:43:55 GMT

I can't believe you people think it is o.k. to shave your beard!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Stephanie V. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:44:45 GMT

"But Islam is the religion of peace. This and all of the other overwhelming evidence to the contrary must be a lie. I blame George Bush."????? Allison Antonelli must not be up to date on the violence these so called Muslims have been spreading. The Taliban have been militant for a while now. Blaming someone who came into power AFTER the Taliban came into their's is just ignorant and off the point of these comments. As for these Talibans that claim to be Muslim, they should all be sought out, put into prisons, and have all that brain washing reversed, by REAL muslims. I have nothing against religion, but I hold much angst against ANYONE using it as an excuse to cause fear and hatred, that goes for ALL religions.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

James, Sarasota, FL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:44:55 GMT

Sounds like the mob, doesn't it? …Or maybe an LA gang, or the Ku Klux Klan’s efforts against businesses serving blacks. This is terrible situation that repeats itself in cultures across the globe, over the centuries. Threats and fear work because most of us feel bound to the social contract and spend our time in productive activities. These people will need to band together to find resolution.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jeff, Falls Church, VA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:47:08 GMT

I find it amusing that Israel's image is supposedly worse than ANY country run by Muslim secularists. Because Israel defends itself against Hizbollah terrorist attacks from Lebanon from militias supported by Iranian oil money, it makes Israel the bad guy. Yet places like Pakistan and Afghanistan where the Taliban use the pain of death to enforce their archaic Sharia Law are not considered to have a poor image. These polls are a JOKE and are meaningless.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Allah New York, NY — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:47:54 GMT

Good!! I am so glad to see this in the news again!! The more extremism we see from these idiots the less they will be accepted. There is nothing to fear from these morons as they incapable of fitting into civilized society and will ultimately be marginalized out of existence...hopefully by more reasonable Muslims.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Shane, Budapest, Hungary — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:49:00 GMT

God has given all of us the gift to choose. We choose wrong many times more than we can imagine. Yet no one should have this gift of a free will taken away for religious reasons. The problems with many "religious" people, not just muslims, is that they make the outward more inportant than what is really in the heart. You make a muslim shave his beard but will that keep him from sinning in his heart? You can legislate proper "religious" conduct to anyone, but without uncondtional acceptance there will be no change of the heart. I believe the princple of free choice is important to the God who gave it to us.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Tufal Khan, Perrysburg, OH — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:52:17 GMT

There are good and bad apples in every society. Religion has nothing to do with it. If you look at the history of these tribal areas of Pakistan, they have been so severely neglected over decades that there has been no development whatsoever, no schools, hospitals, roads , jobs, industry etc. Within the same country when you go to these tribal areas it seems like you travelled decades back in time. Now, I dont think the solution is killing them and there is no immediate fix. The standard of living, education, health and security has to be improved to gain the confidence of people so that they can stand up and say no to the talibanization.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Pedro, New York, NY — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:53:41 GMT

If Bush had given more thought to this - pardon the impossibility - he would have realized that the Taliban had to be wiped out from Afghanistan as well as neighboring regions. But instead he and his friends thought, "Hey, let's come up with a reason to invade Iraq. They have oil". So, 5 years later, the true enemies of peace and the real axis of evil are loose and regrouping in Pakistan to launch their offensive against the weak government of Afghanistan, and perhaps the central government of Pakistan. Both Iraq and Afghanistan will go down in history as total failures. And the trillions that this will have cost will be for our children and grandchildren to pay. What's Britney up to these days?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

KGG, Lexington, KY — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:54:24 GMT

And if these men don't want to keep their beards, they shouldn't have to. Islam is the religion of peace?? Apparently not.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Anonymous — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:55:13 GMT

"The Talibans are mixing up culture with religion." Thank you -- someone is finally stating a critical truth. Tribal customs and traditions are integrated into what is being termed "radical" Islam. As we sit and stew and simmer about this outrageous behavior, we obscure the facts in favor of vilifying the enemy. We cannot defeat an enemy we do not understand, and we cannot defeat an ideology through carpet bombing and deterrence. As to destroying the country of Afghanistan, one only has to look to history to understand that even advanced weaponry and boots on the ground will not subdue the region.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

David Cohen , Providence RI — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:55:22 GMT

I am disgusted at the ignorance being posted here , I am also disgusted at the terrible acts against inocent civilians . To spit out hatred against everyone as a whole , is pure ignorance , give it a couple of years and you will be wearing arm bands goose stepping , and acting out the same type of hateful ignorance . When are you people going to learn , remember the Nazis , this is how it starts , ignorance and lack of education fuels hatred . Peace be upon all of us , and may the ignoant see more clearly , and ignorance comes in all colors , shapes , countries , political persuasion , religious back grounds . No amount of hate you feel will make the victims of these actions , lives any easier , or yours . May everyone have a pleasant day .

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dave, missouri — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:55:54 GMT

more people have died in the name of religion in history than for any other reason. RELIGION IS THE ROOT OF ALL EVIL!!! Also are the people who impose their religion on others!!!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

D. W. Tiano — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:56:08 GMT

Why is the hair on the head of a man be required & shown while the hair on the head of a women be covered? DWT. Albuquerque NM

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dave Krupa, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:56:41 GMT

Bush should have crushed bin Laden at Tora Bora instead of letting him walk free. But don't worry about the Taliban taking over New York, gang bangers would take them out just for looking at them.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

George, Colombia — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 14:58:43 GMT

RELIGION DOES NOT MEAN GOD, and this religion is out of date, the times people get killed because s shave is part of th past, is gone; and this is not going to end using the force. All the warned people that wants to let behind these stupid things must say it loud, all together and, then and only then thouse killers will be less than the people that want their freedom.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Benjiwolf, Pocahontas, AR — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:00:41 GMT

Do Americans have short memories? Right after 9/11, We all banned together with our leader, GW Bush to accomplish a goal... Find the people responsible for the attack on us, bring them to justice or destroy them. Finally, go to where they are... No matter who is harboring them. Hmmm? Next stop should be Bajaur, if GW has intergrity, or balls.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mark, Cape Cod, MA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:05:27 GMT

ANEESA, SOUTH AFRICA, JHB (Sent Tuesday, March 06, 2007 9:31 AM) should sit down for coffee with Mohammed Hassanali, Paris, France (Sent Tuesday, March 06, 2007 9:09 AM) and discuss this at length. I hope they get back to us with their conclusions. I'm a practicing beard-wearer from November to March. I can't blame anyone for wanting to cut them off after a few months, but I'd be upset if someone told me to grow / shave. I seem to remember that when the Taliban gangs left some Afghani cities, barbers were making money hand over length of fist by shaveing men who were sick of their beards. Have you seen some of the beards on TV? Some look nice, others look really nasty. With no CDs or music, how can ZZ Top make beards popular?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sara, islamabad, pakistan — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:05:32 GMT

note how every place where the troops do invade, the problems rise, rather than decline. so in response to Jon, america needs to look after the problmes in their own country, instead of focusing on other country's ones. as a country, pakistan is capable of over-ruling the taliban, they just wont. which can 100% be compared to america being able to stop wars in iraq and not doing so. your troops havent helped any country at all. we dont need you telling us what to do and bombing us when your orders arent carried out. we are perfectly capable of looking after ourselves...no thanks for your help.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Joe M., New York, NY — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:07:48 GMT

People really need to stop mentioning Islam when they talk about the Taliban. The Taliban are not muslims, there just people who have nothing else to do and use religion to gain power. One of the worst sins in Islam is to enforce religion onto anyone.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Imas — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:08:51 GMT

I'm a muslim and its pretty sad and depressing that gangs in the name of islam use islam to control and force people to shave or not to shave. And its also sad that people believe what these people do as related to Islam and not just thugs and gangs.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Funny Guy — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:09:09 GMT

What's Gillette and Schick doing..they should go there.You cant blame people with rusted out blades..they need decent well designed ones..then I guess the rules will change.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

jonathan dizzoe — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:09:15 GMT

...what happens after your beard is 3 feet long, do you finally get to shave it or do you just have to let it grow?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Chris , Cambridge, MA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:11:20 GMT

The Taliban are NOT true Muslims. They do NOT represent Islam. Nowhere in the Quran does it say men must shave their beards. Although it is recommended because the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) did not shave his beard, it is not required. The Taliban is distorting Islam and imposing it upon others via violence, which is also against Islam. The Quran specifically states that there is no compulsion in religion. These people are confused souls who have lost the true meaning of Islam. Please do not judge all Muslims by these twisted people.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Barbara Jean Brackett, Orlando, Florida — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:12:37 GMT

I wonder if we,in the United States, who are civilized people should just leave these peoples of barbarism to themselves to fight amongst themselves. If we as a Nation of civilized peoples do not keep our money and Country intact here, then, all is lost to protect what remains to keep our civilization as we know it. Too much money has been spent already on Wars overseas. The primary purpose of invading Iraq and Afghanistan was retaliation for September 11, 2001. Would it not have been better to have beefed up our security on our own soil, instead of trying to liberate other peoples who are clearly creating more hatred and bloodbath now than ever before? As one can see, people here are starving now, to pay for senseless war(s) when we can't maintain our own homes, jobs, and economy. There comes a point in time when the American people have become bled of their hard-earned, toiled money to a given mess of metallic fragments--what a waste of Earth resources. Remember what happened to civilizations past--destroyed by hatred, greed, and uncontrolled lack of respect for Mother Nature and this beautiful planet!It won't matter what we are doing to try to help these peoples--their barbarism and diversified cultures, whether religious or not, will ultimately destroy them. If there is a Supreme Being in our universe, I'm sure He/She is looking down on this big (small?) blue ball of ocean separating the waters of humanity, and is thinking enough is enough--I think it's time that Someone in the universe will step in.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Glen Mautner Chicago IL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:13:29 GMT

"Stupid is as stupid does"

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Sakowitz, Talmage, CA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:13:36 GMT

Any Taliban ban on showers or brushing your teeth? How about underarm deorderant? I won't even ask about birth control. Why does the Taliban expect their people to live in the Stone Age?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Atif, Florida — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:14:30 GMT

Talibanization mentalty is growing pretty fast in Pakistan, it is comprised of big Ego's of these individuals(Who dont have to be Pustons or Afgans), who are not ready to listen to any valid argument of change in a religon which provide a total flexibilty through a term called "Ijtehad" by using it positivly a group of individuals can decide the "Change" according to the needs of the age. One cannot live with 1400 year old values in todays world. The muslim(myself included) need to stand against these individuals who are hijacking the religon and trying to live in stone age. The tolernce is taught by the prophet(PBUH)during his whole life and here we are all the muslims in total denial of the currents facts of life and socities around us. Keep the religon to yourself and do not impose it to others...............Let cut the chase of having a beard...(They were having it as "Shaving" process was not as smooth as it is now...lets face the facts)

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Erik W. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:18:36 GMT

Why is it that no one addresses what the Taliban truly is. Religion is the means, not the end. Totalitarianism through brutal, yet partial translation and adherence to a religious dogma. Christianity had moments like this too. Inquisition, Crusades, etc. It's not the religion that is at fault. It's the people using it for political and/or power gains with the thin veil of a religious adherence.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Tom, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:18:40 GMT

I honestly have read everyone's comments and they all sound as clueless as the misdirected Taliban. Imposing our religious beliefs is as fascist as their mandates of fundamentalist Islam. Killing them because of our small-minded intolerance is mass murder, no matter how you spin in. And all those pro-Israelis that think this shows the horrible nature of Islam are ignorant--all religions and people are capable of this callous disregard for the rights of others, both historically and currently. Palestinians, Black America, Homosexuals, Women, etc. ad nauseum have all lived horrible, subjugated, hopeless existences in our recent history because of the "ethics" and methods of the governments and organizations everyone has touted as superior to the backward Pakistani tribesman. And you right-wingers who think a liberal reaching for peace will cause Islamic fundamentalists to rise against us in our homeland are smoking Dutch cleanser, in addition to missing the point. And the liberals who think their high-and-mighty worldview of a peaceful resolution to all of this are ignorant to A) The Nature of Man; and 2) The Necessity of Our Great Country and Government's need for some form of imperialism to be able to succeed in the future against the competition of our global marketplace, like it or not. The more I read the opinion of both the populace and of the so-called powers that be, the more depressed I become that the situation is hopeless because of the incompetence and ignorance that surrounds all of us. God help us all, I only want a world left for my children to leave happily in.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

K. Hollomon, Houston, Texas — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:19:44 GMT

Let's see, God gave man free agency and muslim extreamest are taking it away. Playing God? Also, I am angry as hell at the moderate Muslims who are sitting on their hands doing nothing while American men and women and men and women from other countries are fighting the fight. Seems to me that the moderates should be marching in the streets, turning in people they know to be dangerous, joining the military by the hords and speeking out in every venu. The extreamist are perverting their religion through torture, war, and murder. Where are you people! America is giving all we have, What sacrafice are you people making? You should be at the forfront of this fight. Stand up! Not stand down and let others fight the fight for you! If we loose, you loose.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

randy sledge ,champaign il — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:20:43 GMT

this is a reply to allison antoneeli comment .I am not muslim i am not republican but how can you blame george bush for radical muslims that forbid shaving of face hair.How does he have any blame on this subject.Let it me known i am not a george bush fan i think he should be tried for crimes against humanity.Put the blame were the blame on the radical muslims not on bush.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Rick E. Phila. PA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:20:48 GMT

The only good thing about this is that now the Pashtun will start to hate the Taliban and recognize them as the enemy! I feel very sorry for the people of that region, isolated from the rest of the world, and never knowing the rule of law which supports inividual freedom and choice. The poll was a joke. I'd love to sit down with the muslims and ask them about free will. Is it better for one to choose for himself what to believe, or is it better to have to be a Muslim or die, because the local authorities demand it? The Taliban are acting like facsists, and the locals will start to hate them with their thug-like tactics of violence and intimidation. In the war for people's hearts and minds, freedom wins. No one likes to be told what to do, including good muslims!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jennifer Karima, East Lyme, CT — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:21:08 GMT

we should have sent adequate aid to Afghanistan instead of ruining Iraq (and ourselves in the process). What a shame. I encouage all concerned Americans to help these destitute people through orphan sponsorships and such things in Afghanistan. These people need so much help. I found a good organisation in Kabul called Aschiana. It's true that forcing religion is forbidden in the Koran. This area is darkened by poverty and illiteracy-not religion. The Taliban don't even understand Islam-they are all brainwashed. All individuals can do is help the standard bearers of light-that is parents and teachers and doctors-in this troubled place.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sana virginia — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 15:21:19 GMT

There is nothing wrong with Islam. You can’t blame a religion if people are misinterpreting Islam. I am Pakistani and I know every other Pakistani man is clean shave. And yes my answer to John Doe is that Islam is a peace of religion. How would you feel if I say Christianity teaches terrorism because Timothy McVeigh was a terrorist? You can’t blame a religion for evil minds. No religion teaches inhumanity.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Isabella, San Antonio, Tx — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:06:07 GMT

Bush tried for crimes against humanity? What exactly are his crimes against humanity? By saying such a comment, you are basically saying our troops are committing these crimes. The only crimes against humanity I see is our country blindly funding a country who does commit these crimes daily. Buy a ticket and fly to the West Bank or Giza, and you can witness it first hand. How can anyone in this country make a comment about terror tactics, or the abuse of anothers rights, when parts of this country did the same thing to African-Americans, not so long ago.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Lynn in Miss — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:07:04 GMT

"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank that is in your own eye?" (Matthew 7:3)

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Melissa Davis — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:07:25 GMT

This shaving business isn't about religion. It's about control. People across the centuries have committed cruel acts upon others in the name of religion; remember the Crusades? It's about the politics of control. There is no solution that does not come from within. The people of the Colonies had to decide for themselves to rise up and shake off the madness of King George before France could find it lucrative enough to step in and help. Notice the irony.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Daniel, Olean, NY — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:07:34 GMT

Sana, until the Islamic world stands up and begins repudiating these crazy people and takes the responsibility of dealing harshly with them nothing will change. The USA is in Iraq and Afghanistan precisely because of the abject failure or the Saudis, Egyptians, Jordanians, Algerians, Morrocans, Lebanese and all other supposedly moderate Islamic countries to undertake the responsibility of doing what they should have done. But then, its so much easier for them to cry "Infidel" or "Crusader" to whip up anger among the ignorant populations who are Muslim only because they were born that way. Islam is no religion. It is a culture, a political system, an identity. That's all. And until Muslims start to police their own extremists instead of leaving it to the rest of the world, the Islamic world has no credibility, has no standing, has no face to even sneeze at the rest of the world for trying to protect itself. Perhaps nations should be renamed to... The Christian Republic of Great Britain, The Christian Republic of Germany, The Christian Republic of France, The Christian United States of America. Then, of course, the Islamic world would be agast with horror and claim bias and prejudice. Where's the same horror at "The Islamic Republic of Iran"? Why is not Iran or any of the Islamic countries, also the country of all of it's citizens? Why do Christians and Jews in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, and on and on, have to live in constant fear and hiding? Look at virtually every single problem location in the world? What do they have in common? Islam. This comment from one born and raised in Pakistan. USA Zindabad!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Waleed, Pakistan — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:09:21 GMT

This is clearly a statergy of the terrorists. They do this so that everyone looks like them and so that it is hard for the army to pin point the terrorists. This is no exteremism this is no terrorism this is a MENTAL ILLNESS.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Sandra Bartolomo, NY NY — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:10:03 GMT

I am so tired of the "Timothy McVeigh" comparisons. He was an anti-government extremist who claimed to be agnostic until he asked for a chaplain the day of his execution. What does this have to do with MILLIONS of Islamic extremists who will kill at the drop of a hat for Allah???? Who will murder their sisters, mothers and daughters for family honor without regret?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Moe California — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:11:53 GMT

Being a Muslim, born and raised in the US, I can tell all of you that this is NOT ISLAM. People who feel its ok to insult a religion based on fanatics are just as illiterate as those fanatics. Learn a little about the religion before you go off on it. The people referred to in this article are the taliban, and yes they are illiterate, they are crazy and yes they should be taken out. But there is no reason for us to go in there and do this and risk more of our soldiers lives.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Quis Custodiet — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:13:33 GMT

For those who say that RELIGION IS THE ROOT OF ALL EVIL, I ask you to consider the "wonderful" acts committed by Nazis, Bolsheviks and Maoists in the name of "human supremacy" over religion. Everyone has a "religion" whether you call it philosophy, way of life or what have you. Everyone has a set of supposed "non-negotiables" by which they think they, and everyone else, should try to live. You can define that as "religion" or "philosophy", but the concept of outlawing religion is a ludicrous as outlawying individual thought. There are people around the world who would kill us in an instant if they could, for no other reason than the passport we carry. Peaceful coexistance with us is not an acceptable outcome for them. When they gather and chant, "Death to America, Death to Europe" they really mean it. If they had access to nuclear weapons, they would have used them already. They are like rabid dogs - and the only thing you can do with a rabid dog is put it down. You can't train it to be nice or even to leave you alone. It's not pleasant, it's not fun, but it is sadly necessary.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

james bell,cardiff,none — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:14:56 GMT

ive heard that /M1:6 had a tip off this was going to happen but they didnt do anything.if there was a tip off they shouldve sent like 30-50 undercover armed soldiers onto the planes

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sick-n-tired, NJ — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:15:15 GMT

Hey Sana, You say you are Pakistani but post from Virginia. How about being an American. I'm so sick of all the people of other lands comming to America and failing to assimilate to our way of life. No one is saying to betray who you are as a people, just be a productive member of American society and claim to be American of Pakistani heritage. Get with the program or get out...bottom line.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

H. Burns — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 16:15:24 GMT

This is what happens in a theocracy. The Bible says the same thing about shaving. We just ignore it.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Brad Doe, Orlando, Fl — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:11:52 GMT

We have our own Taliban in America. It is known as the Republica Party of morality...They are against any and everything..(The religious right, anti abortion, gay people, poor people, etc.) We had better pay more attention to our problems here at home and less attention to those abroad.....We are in the thresh hold of loosing our liberties also.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Doe, Oklahoma — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:11:53 GMT

To all who believe we shouldn't have removed Saddam from power in Gulf War II: Remember Kuwait? American-led coalition forces drove Iraqi forces out of Kuwait and liberated it. Saudi Arabia sat idly by and did NOTHING! Iraq very belligerently ignored no-fly zones and fired upon American and coalition aircraft patrolling the zones for a decade. Saddam kicked UN weapons inspectors out of the country. All the while, terrible acts against humanity were raging against innocent Iraqi people. A wise man named Vince O'Neill once said "You be nice, and you be nice, and you be nice, until it's time NOT to be nice anymore!" President Bush did the only morally-responsible thing by ousting Saddam and giving the Iraqi people a chance to stand on their own. It will be a terrible waste if they don't pick themselves up by the bootstraps and take responsibility for the security of their own sovereign territory. The same for the peoples of Pakistan. We as Americans at least owe them the help to get on their own feet. After that, responsibility falls squarely on their own shoulders.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sj, southeastern wi — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:12:35 GMT

It seems odd to me that these stories that surface every so often about prison sentences, death sentences, caning sentences etc., bring about such a strong response by their readers. This is an every day occurence in these countries. If it is not one thing it is another. We think they are backward and ridiculous, but as ridiculous as it may seem to us - has it not evoked a response? Don't think that their actions are stupid, backward and ridiculous. If they can srike fear in their country, they can continue and eventually strike fear in other countries as well. We cannot turn a deaf ear or maintain a "laissez faire" attitude. We must continue to be involved and help these oppressed people, or someday we too will be wearing veils and sporting 3 foot beards. Fear and lunacy spread quickly - it still occurs every day and we must continue to fight it. Sometimes you must accept that there truly is pure evil and it spreads quickly. It must be stopped.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

HB, Glendale AZ — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:12:59 GMT

Dearest Antonella - Oh I hope you will never have to face the fear of losing your freedoms in America. Blame whomever you choose and maybe just to prove your point you should not shave either- seeing as how you choose to blame our President. It amazes me that people look to blame one person when it is hundreds of years of oppression that enable a society to accept what is pressed upon them to live a life that a personal hygiene choice can amount to death. What's next - not sneezing or coughing without a written permission slip. OUR President does not have absolute and total control, every decision he makes goes through many others before it is carried out. Wake up and be thankful that you are allowed to live your life with the freedoms that many people have fought and died for. Do not take for granted that we each have so much that others may never be able to gain without someone fighting for them.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Gloria, California — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:13:27 GMT

I am shocked at the ferocious response to this article. It is good to see that people are expressing their opinions, and I am glad to see that someone mentioned the gangs and the Nazis. But we are forgetting that this is not the only cruelty that is happening in the world. What about the Sudan? What about Burma? What about China? What about North Korea? With or without religious backing, some rulers are cruel and completely inhumane. Yes, education will help, but we cannot police the whole world. I agree that everyone should be appalled at the inequities of the world. I agree that more moderate Muslims should help fight against the tyranny of the extremists. We are all human beings and we all should have the right to food, shelter, and personal safety. Basic human rights need to be taught all over the world.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Henna Danawala, Bay Area, California — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:13:46 GMT

Whoever here is blaming Islam for what the Taliban does can be ignored. You have no knowledge. Therefore the ignorance that you sput is ignorable. Everyone knows that the Taliban are not REAL followers of Islam. What they percieve as Islam is nothing at all like the true version of it. So whoever is blaming religion, STOP because it makes you look like an idiot. Go and do some research on it and then come here and try to make it sound bad.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bill Hilburn — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:13:55 GMT

Barbara Jean Brackett thinks we spend too much money on forein wars, despite America and the rest of the free world having enemies like the Taliban. Where do you want us to fight them Barbara; wait until they start killing people for shaving in Dade County and fight them there? The rabid fanaticism of these people is spreading toward our shores, as surely and deadly as a 767 flying into a skyscraper. Like the Nazis and the Japanese facists of the 30's, we need to fight them before they get here, then chase them back to their holes and burn them out. No other solution for this kind of problem has ever worked. Islam is a beautiful faith, that is if I haven't been misreading the Quran for the past 30 years. Today it is being misused as a flase front by a bunch of maniacs. They keep saying Islam won't allow this or that without Holy War, and it is the same kind of "big lie" that produced the "summer of madness" in Manchuria in '31, and the rise of the NSDAP in Germany in the same time frame. The only solution to that kind of insanity then was bullets, balls, and B-29s. I don't think we will ever see Chamberlains"peace in our time", and think we should stop asking "why can't we all get along?". There are monsters out there, and unfortunately, to survive, we have to be pretty monstrous as well.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Rick E. Phila. PA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:13:57 GMT

Hey Sick and Tired, thanks for acting like an ugly ignorant American. Sana said nothing wrong. She and her religion are welocome, as is the truth. Just what did she day that was unamerican?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Matt — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:14:19 GMT

Im a muslim, im pakistani, living here in America born and raised, and im a devout muslim..Thats why it is a shame to see what is going on over in that region. There is no place in islam for forcing people to shave, forcing people to pray, forcing people to not listen to music. Islam promulgates freedom of choice, for muslims and non-muslims. Yet, it is the extremists within religions that scar and make look bad there own religion. Its also sad to see the uninformed bloggers on this blog, taking shots at Islam, maybe if you were more informed about Islam and muslims, you wouldnt ridicule the religion, rather you would realize that the taliban are extremists, who do not represent Islam. Try reading an unbiased book on the religion and you'll see what im talking about. Every religion has extremists, unfortuanetly, thats just a part of life.. but as we know, knowledge is power, so dont make unbiased judgements, seek the truth via credible sources. Note, American media is not one of those credible sources. May God guide and help us all, and may we all live in peace together and better understand each others beliefs and appreciate them..

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Fitzie Caraldo — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:16:43 GMT

At this rate, the entire northwestern corridor of pakistan will look like a giant version of the band ZZ Top!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Cioch, Hamilton, NJ — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:16:56 GMT

Well, tough guy Bush has really sent a message to the world. Attack us & we'll go after you half-heartedly until we realize there's not enough money to be made for halliburton, exxon, et al. & then you can go back to killing people for shaving. had enough? there's more. we'll topple a secular regime, w/o restoring order, or electricity, or...anything, thus providing you a training ground & millions of targets. And we'll indiscriminatley round up, torture,& disappear people, providing the propoganda you need to recruit fresh suicide bombers. so.. let that be a lesson to you.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Chris, West Jordan — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:17:14 GMT

It is sad when people no longer seek understanding. Most people do not pay much attention to the real stories. They see or hear one side of the story and then formulate their own views. Where is the other side of the story? Do we care about finding out? Not really. By the time we finish hearing one side, we entrench ourselves into our views trying to fight off other views and opinions. Open up your ears and hearts! Listen to dissenting views. Find out the real stories, instead of what you want to hear! In regards to the story, I find it disappointing that one religion will seek to impose its will on all others—regardless of their own personal beliefs. I do not completely understand why the Taliban will use such force. I suppose it is to force them to be “saved,” but I have not had the opportunity to find this out. I have found, after reading the posts, that several people blame President Bush for everything under the sun. I agree that he has not handled everything as well as could have been handled, but we’re looking at that from the future, where we can see things a lot more clearly. He may have called the shots, but he was given all of the information from other people. Any “bad” decision that was made was made off of either incorrect or inconclusive information. Had you been in that position, you would have made your best decision, which probably would have been derided if it wasn’t the best decision. Many probably would call you stupid, a mass murderer, or whatever other terms they may think up. Also, before you blame President Bush for everything, please learn about the limits of the three branches of power, and who does what. If you don’t you’ll just sound stupid to those who have knowledge.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:17:25 GMT

Boy, I don't know whats more scary, the Taliban manipulating and changing a religion to make up their own rules or people who read these kinds of stories and immediately react with assertions that this is how Islam is, lets kill them all. Islam is the second largest religion in the world. Has at least 6 million practicing muslims in the U.S. Yet in Africa, US, Austria and all other parts of the world Muslims are allowed to shave. A person with common sense or an educated person would actually go and lookup for themselves what the religion says before making a judgement on it. He would then realize this is not the religion. But, a Taliban like minded person just needs to here one story to be brainwashed and make up his mind. I would like to ask the many people who have said Islam is crazy religion to ask themselves if a Priest had made up this no shaving rule in some remote poor non governed area to gain control, what would their response be. Most people would say the priest is not practicing his religion and thats not what Christanity is. But, when it comes to another religion they act another way. Come on people, educate yourselves and stop acting like the Taliban.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Professor Joe — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:18:46 GMT

Religion is Mythology. The only thing dumber than the belief in a mythological god, is killing people because of that belief... Which is what has been at the core of ALL religion for as long as it has existed... Why should it be any different now? Wake up people. Evolve beyond the god myth...

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dave Doe, Ohio — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:19:06 GMT

You know, God, Yahweh, Allah, etc., etc., probably doesn't really give a _______ if one has a beard or not! But I bet He does care if one human takes the life of another for any reason. 'Ya think? Unbelievable !!!! It would be so very interesting to know how all the so-called "martyrs" and followers of this and other extremist religions will be welcomed at the pearly gates.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Taliban Sucks — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:19:38 GMT

The Taliban are no different than a neighborhood bully. They will twist your arm, and beat you good if you don't listen to what they say. The outcome will always end up with you getting a beating for something, however. Now, if someone with a gun put down that bully in the street... well, problem solved. There should be a well-publicized campaign to nab these "bullies" and they can be rounded up, identified, then shot dead as a warning to other taliban: You don't belong here.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Eugene Bueno — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:19:49 GMT

We are told by politicians and media, “Democratic nations are not at war with Islam.” Muslims defends Islam and say we are ignorant about the truth. Then where the hell is the non-radical majority of Muslims when the world is boiling? Where is this overwhelming non-radical Muslim majority when it is absolutely necessary to search out and eliminate the radicals in their very own neighborhoods? Where is the Muslim ideology that will give birth to a kind and peaceful society? The truth is the majority of Muslims throughout the world fall into one of two categories; radical religious fanatic terrorist who want to kill anyone with a different idea and Muslims who if not actively supporting them sit by and do nothing to take up arms and fight the radicals which are their own family and neighbors. Until Islam has a war within itself to eliminate the insane murderous fanatics, we will clearly be at war with Islam.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

TimBob, Motor City, MI — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:20:36 GMT

Well now I know why I am a practitioner of Santaria, Rastafarian Orthodox persuasion. These other "false" religions like Islam and Christianity are all about killing, stoning, beheading, etc., of non-believers. Personally, as long as I can sacrifice a chicken occasionally to keep the evil away, pay homage to the good spirits by burning my sacred "incense", I will embody the true spirit of Peace. The rest of you are all infidels...beard or no beard! AIIIyyeeeeee!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jesus Tapia, Stockton, CA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:21:06 GMT

I think is time for us to withdraw from Iraq. We shouldn't pay for a mistake of judgement that conducted us to this nonsensical war. The people of Iraq shouldn't pay for it either. We will have thousands of our soldiers killed there and this won't solve the problem, the people of Iraq will have more friends and relatives also killed and this will generate more anger against us. Everything was Saddam until he was hanged and where in the world is "Osama San Diego"? The big guy will have a nice paid retirement with all the benefits while our families will be left with many orphans or sons and daughters in the comforts of the walter Reeds'. The only way to avoid terrorims is to stop terrorizing those guys!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Someone — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:21:12 GMT

Why does everyone blame Islam? (Not necessarily you guys who have commented before me, but speaking generally.)The actions of the extremists who blow themselves up, claiming that it is for the sake of Allah, is not Islamic, mind you. In addition, this is the TALIBAN we're talking about here, who try to use Islam as a justification for their sick actions. The actions of these people shouldn't be falsely generalized to apply to all Muslims. Peaceful, tolerant Muslims do exist, even though they rarely appear in the media.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Sulaiman, Orlando FL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:21:31 GMT

This is in response to Sandra Bartolomo: Sandra, Timothy McVeigh is not a good example. This comparison might be better: Does the Irish Republic Army represent Catholics?. The IRA commits acts of terrorism but does the West call them Catholic terrorists or Catholic extremists. NO - they call them terrorists. Why attach 'Muslim' when we refer to Taliban terrorists or other terrorists who commit crimes against humanity? They are terrorists not Muslim terrorists. In the Quran it says to kill one human being is to kill the whole of humanity and to save one human being is to save the whole of humanity. How then can Islam, a religion practiced by billions around the world be interpreted as a religion of aggression.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Gypsy, La. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:21:33 GMT

I just read where a 19yr old Saudi women was blackmailed, her family threatened, then ganged raped and beaten by some thugs. Her punishment!! = 90 lashes QUOTE: "The judges, basing their decision on ISLAMIC LAW, also decided to sentence the woman and her original blackmailer to 90 lashes for being alone together in his car." (http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,256980,00.html) I'm having a hard time believing Islam = Peace when so many justify brutuality in the name of "Islamic law". Another example that this nasty behavior is not limited to remote villages.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mike H. Ankeny, IA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 17:21:52 GMT

First, H. Burns: Where in the Bible does it say you will be killed if you shave? Second, is anyone even mildly surprised by this? I mean really, is this even remotely shocking?! Not one bit to me. The only Muslims with a voice are the terrorists. The so-called "moderate" ones, sit by and do nothing while they could be a great ally of our cause. I suppose the libs read this and blame Bush just like the Katrina disaster. That was his fault too.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Hajra,MA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:53:47 GMT

What is happening in the tribal area with the taliban is clearly cultural and NOT related to religion of islam at all. These kind of mix up occurs all the time and they should be cleared the religion of islam is not to be blamed but the people following it. Islam is the greatest religion and so many stereo types are being portrayed.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Ricky Faella — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:54:08 GMT

If the past century has taught us anything it surly is that when you fight a war it should be with all you can muster. There is no apeasment,no forgiving after all your country and your countries men and woman are a risk. What if you lose? At the present time our military forces are at a point of depleation not enough of everything, why do our leaders persist in fighting wars with one hand tied behind? Why do we pour billions of our hard earned dollars into a country that insists on killing Americans. Our own infrustrure here at home is falling apart, Not enough schools , hospitals , road repair , ect. not to mention conditions of the homeless, and health care for our own citizens. If it were not for Franklin D. Roosevelt " A real leader" our citizens would not have anything to leave our children, Politicians are afaid to call up the men required to complete the task they have envoked upon America. But have no compuntion when it comes to handing out Billions in give away programs to build other countries, including the enitire middle east. Just take a minute and think about this! The present adminsteration could have given each and every one of our 360 million people here in America Two (2) million dollars each and still would not be in the debt we now have. We would be no where near the Trillions of dollars we now owe to borrowed monies from foregin countries. Thsse coments will not appear, for what ever reason , however they should be of intrest to all Americans , because we are giving our lives to a half hearted effort on the part of our own government.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jeremy S. Grain Valley, Missouri — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:54:11 GMT

Completely stupid, just another reason for everyone to hate the Taliban, what point do they prove, its just another scare tactic

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Ricky Faella Wayne Ok. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:55:45 GMT

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Ashamed not Afraid American — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:57:12 GMT

It isn't our problem you idiots! If we didn't have to exact our ideology on every culture in history maybe we wouldn't have these problems in the first place. Maybe white americans are not 100% right all the time, ever thought of that! Maybe all of the world hates us because we are the most ignorant nation on the planet and think we are entitled to everything, our dumbass highschoolers have proven this every year, they score better in pop culture than 6th grade math. Read books and don't watch tv, it will help you think your own thoughts. We should stay the #%$$ out of other peoples business. The only reason we are involved is $$$, if we were not the greediest country on the planet we wouldn't be involved!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

WeNeedPeace — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:58:11 GMT

I've been a Muslim all my life and have never read any laws stating that if someone shaves they are to be killed as keeping a beard is voluntary. This goes against the teachings of Islam and the government should take control of the area with the locals. It also seems like the media is only picking up this incident as though ignorance and injustice is only common among Muslims and not among other people and religions. The Western media reports about the Darfur genocide which I personally condemn, but rarely mentions the Chechen Genocide, the Kashmir conflict, the historical roots of the independence movements in the southern Phillipines and Thailand, or the Western backed authoritarian rulers who have been ruling much of the Muslim World since WW2 with a few great exceptions. To all those who are blaming Islam for the actions of the Taliban, maybe it would be worthwhile to checkout the National Archives and see how the CIA was the one that helped finance their rise in the first place. One of the commentators above said that the West should be at war with Islam, which means that the War on Iraq is indeed another Un-Christ like "Crusade". I say un-christ like because we Muslims know Prophet Jesus' teachings are being disobeyed by these neo-Crusaders who fight for revenge or for the wealth of others like the original Crusaders.Unfortunately many soldiers are still blaming Iraq for 9/11 even after the truth has come out. If we trully want to fight against terrorism we need to fight against all forms of it whether by individuals or state sponsored including by Russia, India, and Israel and not only blame Muslim countries. We need to stop supplying and supporting those who commit these acts or we will be seen as having double standards and our credibility in the world will be further eroded. To learn more about Islam I recommend the following sites: http://www.ediscoverislam.com/ http://www.theamericanmuslim.org/

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Patrick, Miami, FL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:58:28 GMT

Funny that all the people posting that are so hot and bothered by all of this forget to mention that stupid stuff get you killed here in the states too. Try wearing red and walking through a Crips hood or blue in a Bloods hood. That will get you just as dead and it would be just as stupid... and that's here in the good ol' USA.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Caitie, SC — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:59:04 GMT

The abuse of religion by extremists in order to gain control over people has occurred in almost every religion over the course of human history. My problem, with this as with any event, is the fact that the true Muslims, who by far outnumber the extremists, very rarely, if at all, stand up and decry their actions. Yes, there is the weapon of fear in tribal areas such as the one mentioned, but there are Muslims across the entire globe and it is not very often that you see them stand up and speak out or educate people. Instead they stand back and let others cast stones while their minority extremists are allowed to essentially brainwash the uneducated and continue their reign of terror in the less "civilised" areas. (And no, I am not religious, I am agnostic.) On a lesser note, I took the Allison Antonelli comment as a lesson in sarcasm, though maybe I was wrong since so many have believed it to be honest.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

jon, San Diego, CA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 19:00:04 GMT

"Someone" wrote asking why blame Islam for what is happening. Shouldn't the Islamic world be up in arms about this? I find it disturbing that there is such a hatred for Israel which next to the Taliban are pretty much angels and yet you see most of the Islamic world doing absolutely nothing to stop or condemn this activity. The sad part is that this is so common in many fully Islamic countries. Only in countries where Islam is not the major religion is this much less prevelant. Shouldn't that tell us something about the true nature of this religion? Of it's not politically correct to say this, but politically correct DOES NOT equal truth. Shouldn't all the neighboring Islamic countries be hell bent on tracking down the Taliban and writing scathing articles and going on television denouncing this? Where are all the Moderate Islamic Americans? There is a glaring double standard in the middle east and in the world. WHy don't i see the same passion and fervor in their eyes against what is happening here that i see when talking for instance against Israel? I know there are peace loving muslims in the world, but right now they seem to be the cowering minority in the world, not the great majority at all that they claim to be.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Margaret, Oregon — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 19:01:32 GMT

Please don't confuse religion with a quest for control and power. Was the Spanish inquisition about Christianity? Are Christians who oppose abortion responsible for the actions of radicals who blow up abortion clinics and kill the people working there? Taliban is using religion as a justification for using violence to control people. Don't confuse people who perpetrate acts of violence on others with a religion in whose name these actions are taken.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John K, Delafield, WI — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 19:01:32 GMT

Well I guess it 1938 again but this time it is the Middle East, when will the Leaders of the world realize it takes all of us to ban together to rid ourself's of these terrorist's. Remember WWII, if we don't, welcome to WWIII

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

ThomasJ., Fishkill, New York — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 19:01:37 GMT

What is amazing after 9/11 is that so many people still have no clue about the history of islam and its founder and that they think the Crusades were started by the Christian Europeans. Muhammed was kicked out by his own tribesmen for being a mad man and came back with an army of nomad murders,rapists, thieves etc. and have been doing the same thing for almost 1400 years(621AD). As far as the crusades are concerned, it was the people of the Middle East- Christians,Jews and everyone else - who begged the Christians to do something before they would have been wiped out by the muslim hoardes that were only interested in stealing the land and wealth in the name of islam. There is NO record of peaceful islam and there never will be. islam is the problem and always will be...

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Missy M., San Jose, CA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 19:01:51 GMT

Hello? Since when is Free Will a tenet of Islam? The word itself means "submission", and it is reinforced every day, five times a day in prayer. Let's be careful not to impose Western values on another ideology. Apples and oranges were never, and will never be the same. Also, leave these people to fight the Taliban themselves? Oh, yeah, it worked in Afghanistan, while the world watched the Taliban blow ancient sculptures of the Buddha into historic oblivion. Knowledge is Power, and no one knows this, or tries to prevent it, better than the Taliban.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Ken J. - Chicago, IL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 19:02:17 GMT

When will everyone figure out that the universe doesn't care what we believe or whether we believe at all. It really doesn't matter whether you grow/shave your beard, wear a religious symbol, eat/don't eat a particular food, burn candles/incense, sacrifice goats, hop backwards on one leg, wear your underwear on the outside, or perform any other meaninglesss ritual. Everyone has the same origin and the same destiny as everyone else. Meanwhile, we're all killing each other in the name of whatever religion we believe in. If anything matters at all, it's how we treat our fellow members of the human race.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Anonymous — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 20:52:47 GMT

I don't know how many times recently I have railed on and on about how the lenient policies of Musharraf, President of Pakistan toward the Taliban would lead to ruin. Often also have I commented that the Pashtun were not

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Les D. Leesburg, VA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:45:10 GMT

While I have read all of these postings, I didn't find 1 that hit the point. 1) you suppress people through denying them an education (which is why the Taliban is destroying schools in Afghanistan) and 2) the Taliban is a modern day KKK which spews its hatred and beliefs through fear (same as LA gangs) and 3) they will challenge anybody who attempts to educate the masses (because through an education one truly finds his/her freedom). I am hearing bomb them, leave them to their own vice etc. and none of this will help the situation. This isn’t about Islam all though the Taliban states they follow a strict interpretation of Islam, this is all about control and power.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

JRF, Point Pleasant, NJ — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:46:35 GMT

First, let's realize that had Bush not taken his eye of the real threat and squandered thousands of American lives and billions in dollars on a made up war, their wouldn't be a Taliban to reconstitute. That being said, it is time for "mainstream" Muslims to stand up and do more than just shake their finger and state that the Taliban do not represent "real" Islamic principles. You can't just say you disagree with them, but not call for their elimination. You can't sit on the sidelines on this and expect others to rid your religion of the factors that threaten everyone else.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Alex, Southampton, PA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:47:06 GMT

By the way this country has more than 25 nuclear heads! That is pretty scary, isn't. The country where 15th century laws in charge has nukes!!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

AA, Augusta GA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:48:02 GMT

If anyone really believes that this is about religion, then you are very much mistaken. This is about human greed, corruption and a unquenchable thirst for power. Nor is it just the Taliban that is guilty of such behavior, or for that matter, any major institution; it begins with the individual, then family, community, and finally the government. In our own country, for example, (and this is only one example of many) our media subjects and exploits our daughters and leads our sons to believe that the only value our daughters have is a sexual one, and even then only if she is anorexic thin and under the age of twenty-five (though it does seem that our daughters are preferred at 14 and younger) and she can be beaten and killed with little or any justice. Marriage and commitment are a joke in this country and raising a family to have morals is no longer the "popular" thing to do, especially if it means giving up our quest for materialistic things. When we destroy the dignity, worth and sanctity of our daughters and allow our sons to use "testerone" as an excuse to mistreat them, then we set ourselves up for failure as a society because we are destroying their ability to have mutual respect for the other and in turn destroying the foundation of the family. Justice and peace begins with those who practice it and teach their children to believe the same and then are brave enough to shine as an example to their community and the rest of the world. We might not be able to vanquish greed and corruption but if we work together, and stop shift blaming and making excuses, we can keep it in check.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

BroncoScott, Fort Collins, Co — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:49:30 GMT

Some of you are missing the point- I think Allison Antoneeli was using some cleverly timed sarcasm in "blaming" George Bush for the Taliban's beard policies. She is just making fun of those who would blame Bush for anything- Katrina,Volcano, Tsunami, etc.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Freedom for all, Virginia Beach, VA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:50:55 GMT

ANEESA and Habeeb Al-Zabeebe miss the point completely. It's not a matter of what Islam demands regarding facial hair. It's forcing religious beliefs and norms on others, and denying them the right to practice, (or not practice), thier religion as they see fit.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

claudia mahan,colorado springs co — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:52:05 GMT

The Taliban and Insurgents kill and torture innocent people in the Name of Islam. When will ALL the Countries stand up to them and say enough is enough.Why is it that the United States stands alone in the Fight of Terrorism? Those Muslim Countries need to rise up and fight against those Invaders who destroy their country.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

usmc mom, USA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:52:42 GMT

I have to agree with a lot of the other sentiments here on both sides. I understand the true Islamic Muslims saying that the Taliban are not actually Islamic but the fact of the matter is, they [the Taliban] are USING the Islamic faith as a back and therefore are making many people believe that Islam is the root of all evil in these situations. Even if Islam is a religion of peace, why are the moderate Islamics not getting out and defending their religion?!? As an American, I am sick and tired of losing the BEST of our young men and women trying to defend someone that is not willing to step up and defend themselves. I wish our country would leave them to their own devices and spend our money and resources reinforcing our own country and beliefs. If we had spent here what we have squandered away in islamic countries every American I know actually would be living in a paradise on earth.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bill Hopkins, Swanton, OH — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:53:46 GMT

The Taliban represent mainstream Islam to about the same degree that snake handling and speaking in tongues represent mainstream Christianity. Thankfully, the snake handlers do not seem to threaten others with their snakes, nor do the those speaking in tongues threaten to cut out the vocal cords of those who prefer not to emulate them. The radical "kill all non-believers" philosophy postulated by those with the means to carry it out is the real threat; mainstream Islam is not the problem.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Pat Swords, Naperville, Illinois — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:54:33 GMT

As I was watching the recent movie, The Guardian, about the trainning & lives of the U. S. Coast Guard personnel, and the often heroic, selfless rescue of anyone in trouble on the seas, I wondered to myself if anyone of those Muslem, Arab,Islamic, whatever countries have devoted, trained personnel like that? you know, other than the suicide bombers? maybe they could be trained to sacrifice for others, and save civilians instead of blasting the guts out of them at the markets!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

mel, chicago, il — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:54:51 GMT

People, read your history books. Islam is by no means the first, or only religion to be used as justification for horrific or extremist actions. I.e., Christianity (the crusades, the exploitation of Africa, slavery, the inquisition, monarchy, IRA and Protestant paramilitary terrorist groups). Selective memory does not make an argument.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

ross mclaurin columbia, sc — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:57:22 GMT

Come on people! "Man" is inherently evil and forever will be. We killed the only one with the answer and He still loves us enough to find the way to eternal peace. What a terrible thing to face, those final words, "depart from Me for I never knew you"! "The Taliban", is just another "beast" like Hitler and his likes! This world must rise up in one voice and say, "NO MORE"! The Jews are still looking, the Christians are awaiting and the rest are in peril of "missing the boat"! We all are just passing through this world, ever wonder what you will leave behind? Contrary to popular belief, there is one thing you may take on with you. Souls! Think deeply, Columbia, SC

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jason Pau, location unknown — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:58:22 GMT

PLEASE PEOPLE! Not all Muslims are violent at heart. It's just the other 97% that give the rest a bad name.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Abdul-Karim Stephens — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:58:25 GMT

I swear by the lord of the universe, the taliban does not represent islam AT ALL!! You can't find there teachings in Quran or in the way of the Prophets.My god guide us all.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Brian, Tampa, FL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:58:31 GMT

I am personally a little upset with the ignorance of some of these comments. The Islamic religion is one of peace. That is why the Taliban and al-Qaida are called Islamic extremists. They do not go by the common Islamic law. They make up their own. Those of you that blame Bush for this situation are idiots. If you think pulling out of the Middle East is the answer, WRONG. If we pull out of the Middle East, all of our fighting men and women will have died in vain. If you think "kill em all" is the answer, WRONG. You cannot find them all. In order for America and our allies to besuccessful, we need to stay the course and most likely longer. Once the Middle Eastern governments become stronger, the Taliban and al-Qaida will become weaker. Once again, I am shocked at the ignorance and stupidity of some of these comments. Those of you who do not know what you are talking about are better off just shutting up. "It is better to remain quiet and thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt."

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Johhnboy — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:58:48 GMT

No Mike, Bush was not to blame for Katrina, just the poor response to it.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Angela Paris France — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 21:59:00 GMT

Somebody said that America should stop interfering and trying to impose their ideals on other cultures, leave them to their own beliefs, I agree with that. But I have a very hard time with men being punished because they want to shave, what the hell has that got to do with religion? I have a much harder time with the way that women in many countries are treated, made to cover themselves and punished so harshly if a little of their face or hair shows. If they are raped they are then punished for that, as if it were their fault when it is surely the fault of the male (probably so called religous believers!!) who committed the rape! Why do men treat women so badly, so dis-respectfully? They are born of women, do their mother's mean nothing to them? I believe they are afraid of women, they know that women are more intelligent and logical. Women are treated like this, kept without a voice as men are afraid of them becoming powerful. If women, inside whose bodies new life grows, most of whom would do anything to protect their offspring, were more powerful, had a voice, I believe much of the unrest and evil in the world would die out, it would become much more peaceful. Religion is just used as an excuse for this awful behavouir. Religion is just a convenient excuse that terrible, ignorant and barbaric people can hide behind to commit their awful sins in the name of their God. Don't they think beyond what they are doing to their own death and realise that if they commit such awful crimes they surely cannot hope for eternal life with their God in heaven? So although I think on one hand that America should not interfere in the problems of all these countries, on the other hand it is so hard to stand by and watch people behaving so atrociously towards each other and to do nothing. It seems as though many of these people are living in a barbaric world centuries behind the western world, how long will it take for them to catch up? Why would anybody ever want to punish a man for shaving or a woman for showing her face, for being raped? Why do they deserve to be punished? I really do not understand.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Kelsey, jefferson city, mo — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:01:24 GMT

What the heck does peace mean? I'm not relgious, but man, does it cause some damage on folks. Really, this world is not going to end with a meteor, or any kind of natural disaster, its going to end because we have psychos out there murdering people because they have no beards!!! Peace people...think about that damn word. If people don't follow thier religion, then its their own fault right? They will suffer in thier own religion's hell right?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Shalom Al-Salaami — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:01:46 GMT

You gotta be kidding me. The only thing more ignorant than these taliban killings, are the collection of xenophobic hypocritical comments posted by the "kill 'em all" wretches on this page. Yes, Islam is a religion of the peace...Thus the word itself, "Islam." So is Christianity and so is Buddhism for that matter; and pretty much every messianic religion; and they've all been edited and warped to the will of their violent followers - be it the Taliban, Pope Urban II, David Koresh. Faiths that require salvation via a person (Jesus) or a book (Qu'ran) usually lose focus after these people have died or the books have been "published."

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Craig, Riverdale, MD — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:02:02 GMT

No, Catie in SC, I don't think you're wrong about Allison A.'s attempt at sarcasm. The sad reality is the flailing, angry ignorance aimed at her by people who didn't recognize it. Is it any wonder that those same are spewing inhumane vitriol at the taliban and in every other direction in this forum. We're so ready with our anger in America, yet so halting with our compassion and resolve to peacefully right wrongs, esp. in our own country. Truly, people, find an issue that bothers you in your community and do something to resolve THAT! Improve your schools...tutor somebody...mentor a kid. But leave the fate of these people to the Higher Power that you and they say you're worshiping. GET OFF THIS BOARD, which I got sucked into after reading this sad, sick article...GET OFF AND GO DO SOMETHING!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Barbara Jean Brackett, Orlando, Florida — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:02:07 GMT

In response to Bill Hilburn: Tuesday, March 6, 2007 at 12:13 pm. If one will notice the bravery of a kind and sincere act by American Pilots and other countries' Pilots flying helicopters to aid in dropping provisions to whom they thought needed help in the way of food or clothing, etc. in those remote islands for tsunami victims recently, in my mind, was most respectful for the two different cultures to show respect for the SPEARS being thrown up at them from the island natives is good enough for me to realize that there are yet, still, many levels to this World of an onion-encircled sphere. It's not the money, per se being spent on foreign wars, so much as the harm to everything alive on the planet--not just people, but the littlest of creatures also. Yes, the money needs to be kept in our infrastructure. The balance of the equation is already tipping into the zone of disrepair or the ability to stop the "shaving", in my opinion. I have to agree with your comment to ..."fight them before they get here, then chase them back to their holes and burn them out". Yes, other creatures do this, especially in the insect world, such as bees and ants. Yes, I guess the jaws of those flying ants in massive swarm will devour us within an hour if on the ground at their level. They eat a lot to, I'm sure. How long does it take the ants or other animals to bring down a cow? Is it any different to bring down another human in the same manner? The only difference is that humans have evolved with a language of intelligence and enough sociopathic, cunning and manipulative behavior to cause severe physical and emotional harm to others and themselves. We do have a lot of ants here in Florida--one ant bite or bee sting hurts--ouch! Yes, there does not seem to be an easy solution. Whatever is humanly possible to control in actions will obviously be taken at all costs to secure what is the right thing to do in all cases. Then, there is only the reliance on the unseen ability of the "Higher Powers" to intervene and take time out for our tiny small planet spinning at how many miles per hour compared to the stars spinning around a Black Hole at 2.2 million miles per hour? Thanks for sharing.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bobby T — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:03:21 GMT

Pakistan had better wake up and smell the coffee, the Taliban is not merely some obscure religious cult they are infact bent on world domination the so called religion is simply an excuse and a conveinent means. If they have any sense what so ever they will exterminate this bunch of vermin unless they want pakistan to be renamed Talibanistan. Equaly important is the fact that pakistan does have Nuclear weapons which the taliban would dearly love to posess in order to impose their will on the people of the free world.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Sid, Chicago, IL. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:03:27 GMT

And the mind control continues. For heaven's sake, how can people commit atrocity's such as this?! It's as if they are under some sort of mind control. I don't care what you believe in in terms of religion and what it says in your certain holy book, killing your fellow man for something such as this is disgusting. But not inhuman sadly. The world is such a horrible place and this just adds to our misery and insanity. As for religion? War is never caused by religion. It is caused by the stupidity of man. God help the tribes of Pakistan as having your freewill taken away from you is in itself slavery.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John S. Smith — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:04:16 GMT

When the sgraggly-faced Taliban move into an area, they want to blend into the population when they want. It's a lot easier for them to do so if everyone has a beard. Three years and nine months after Pearl Harbor, World War II was indisputibly over. Four years and four months after the World Trade Center went down, we're starting to get serious about threatening to reduce foreign aid to Pakistan if they keep giving Bin Laden and his crew unrestricted guest privileges and free rent. Where is Curtis LeMay when you need him?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

rono-CT-USA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:05:06 GMT

a resturant in nyc can get fined for using the wrong oil for there fries. What's the difference? I think freedom is freedom. Were do you draw the line? Freedom for all is worth fighting for. "WMD's found or not.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Robert, Kentucky — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:07:31 GMT

If all of the moderate Muslims in the world spoke out against the Taliban, I doubt anything would happen. The Taliban are armed, those they oppress are not. Do you all honestly think they would give a damn if these people publicly disagreed with them? You think they're going to say to themselves "Crap, our philosophy is being seen as radical. We should throw in the towel"? The Taliban respect power. That's why they backed out of neighborhoods they terrorized when U.S. troops rolled in (and came back when those troops rolled out because they are undermanned and could no longer afford to stay). They don't need to be lectured, they need to be killed off.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Steve, St Paul, MN — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:10:51 GMT

What is the answer to the terrorist mindset that recruits followers based on radically perverted religious views and then kills in a manner that appears to be almost indiscriminant? More religion? No. How about more bullets and bombs and boots on the ground? That hasn’t worked yet and it doesn’t look like it will. How about arming everyone in terrorist infested areas with a loaded handgun? That’s got to be cheaper that what were doing but the guns would undoubtedly and quickly end up in the wrong hands. The bad guys are using the Net with immense effectiveness to spread their message, so why can’t the 99.99% of the world that is sane do the same? I don’t know how but I‘m confident someone could figure it out. Meanwhile, at the expense of many thousands of our young men and women, we will keep killing the radical elements because it is righteous, and after we’ve felt the satisfaction of taking our pound of flesh, I would argue that ultimately the answer is education. It is not a war for land or power but of ideas, and we will not capture hearts until we enlighten minds.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Tomarco, Syracuse, New York — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:12:10 GMT

If anything matters at all, it's how we treat our fellow members of the human race. Missy M., San Jose, CA (Sent Tuesday, March 06, 2007 2:01 PM). That is an excellent point but I suspect it will fall on deaf ears.In a perfect world, everyone would wake up and ask themselves, "What can I do to better the quality of life today" and set out about completing that task or series of tasks. But as we all know, this isn't a perfect world; so this is where we are today.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Gary — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:13:46 GMT

I think Pakistan needs to take care of the problem they are the ones with the problem. They let the Taliban in so now they can deal with them. Maybe what they need to do is invest a little bit of the millions of US dollars that we're pooring into their country and invest in a border fence. Really isn't it about time that we quit helping those that wish to harm us. Muslims are not to blame but the extremeists which sometimes they harbor are. Its time that we let the muslims take care of muslim problems.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Peace On Earth, Fletcher, North Carolina — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:13:53 GMT

Now, I've read many of these responses and I'm disgusted at all these ignorant responses from Americans. I've read about Islam many times (but I am a Buddhist), but only a few NON-IDIOTIC people seem to grasp that ignorance and prejudice are the cause of all violence. I don't believe we should stamp anyone out. We should instead pull out of Iraq and move to more important matters, such as GLOBAL WARMING and the Rainforest being cut down. Don't get me wrong, this is a truly regrettable tragedy, but this can be solved. Other things are more difficult. We must band together to combat ALL of these threats.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mark B. Leedom, Nashville, TN — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:17:02 GMT

...doesn't seem too terribly different from our religious right...

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

muslimah2378 — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:17:48 GMT

This is to comment to those who think that moderate Muslims are not speaking up. First of all, rarely do you see any type of media that even highlight Muslims who are active in the community. As a practicing Muslim, I am always out trying to meet new people so that open dialogue can be established. I know there are of Muslims who are striving to make their community that they live in a better one. What I find challenging is that some people, perhaps most, don't want to listen to what Muslims have to say. They already have this "idea" perpetuated by the media. Now I can point out a lot of cases where Christianity was used to suppress people, even in modern times. Do I blame Christianity? No, I blame people who use religion to fit their personal agendas. No one says anything about the priests molesting little boys? Why isn't the Catholic Church or it's people up in arms about that..instead of transfering priests to other parishes. We can go back and forth on this but God is not going to bless people unless their hearts are going to change. And also to comment to one who said.."there is NO record of peaceful Islam.."..last time I checked Islam made a major contribution to how we do things today...Algebra anyone?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

SAM,WHIITER, CA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:19:20 GMT

THESE FANATICS HAVE NOTHING TO DO WIT ISLAM. AS A MOSLEM, THEY DO NOT REPRESENT ME OR THE FACE OF TRUE ISLAM. THEY ARE MINORITIES AND THEIR INTERITATION OF SUNNAH GOES BEYOND ACCEPTANCE. IF THEY CLAIM THEY ARE FOLLOWING THE SUNNAH, IT SHOULD BE DONE BY GOOD DEEDS NOT INTIMIDATIONS. THE PROPHET (PBUH) NEVER USED THE SWORD MAKE PEOPLE DO WHAT THEY SHOULD. HIS ACTIONS USUALY ATTRACTED OTHERS TO CONVERT. THE ONLY REASON THESE NEWS ARE REPORTED ARE BECAUSE OF THEIR EXTREMISM. SHAVING BEARDS, KEEPING GIRLS OUT OF SCHOOLS, KILLING OTHER MUSLIMS WHO DO NOT SHARE THEIR VIEWS, LABELING OTHERS AS INFIDELS, DESTROYING CULTURES i.e. CENTURIES OLD BUDDAH STATUE AND KILLING INNOCENT PEOPLE i.e. EMPLOYEES OF TWIN TOWERS ALL ARE NOT THE TEACHING OF ISLAM. MAY THEY ALL BURN IN HELL FOR WHAT PICTURE THEY ARE PAINTING ABOUT ISLAM AND MUSLIMS.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bruce Shader, Hanover Park, IL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:23:31 GMT

Freedom of religion is a two way street. We are free to practice our faith and others are free to practice theirs. Fanaticism is not a religion, it is a philosophy and fanatics cannot be reasoned with, they cannot be intimidated nor bought. The only way to defeat fanatics is to take away their base. If everyone would ignore them or refuse to be intimidated by them they would become impotent. I for one do not understand why we, as Americans, feel we need to go where we have not been invited and force our values down the throats of people who have neither the inclination nor the desire to follow our way of life. Live and let live. While, in my opinion, our way of life is definitely flawed, it is the best thing going, for now.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Sad to be called human, Everywhere — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:23:41 GMT

I find it sadly ironic that in a relatively peaceful forum...ie a blog, we are prone to the same barbed comments and hatred that is being played out all over the world. As a species, we are pathetic. Mostly because of the political lines and walls we have created. It seems that a small percentage of people who have posted here actually understand the true nature of current events. Others just geek at seeing their silly uninformed comments posted. It would appear to me that we can't even maintain our own civility to each other as citizens tollerant of each others differences and beliefs. What say half of you get on one side of an island, and half of you get on the other side. Then we'll give you guns and missiles to settle your differences..... oh wait.... never mind. Someone already thought of that. Thank you all for proving that we are just a selfish self destructive bunch who will be the instrument of our own demise.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jeb Black — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:26:07 GMT

Great posts from the dumb down american public. examples: I say we just blow all them idiots up!!! Kill the Taliban. The only solution. You can't reason with a wild animal. And perhaps we wonder why it is important to be in Iraq ? And not to give in to this sort of thing ? When you give the uneducated a forum, this is the result. Remember who met with the taliban before 9/11? Your president did.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jill Mullen, Fairbanks Alaska — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:27:22 GMT

Islam may be a religion of peace but all religions have their fanatics, no matter how peaceful it is. Take the crusades by Catholics in the past. no matter how much I hate Bush this is the one thing that is not his fault contrary to Ms. Allison Antonelli's belief.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Skadi Haugen — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:33:19 GMT

What I don't understand about many of the responses to this article, is why it is our job, as Americans, to be the world's policeman? George W. Bush, who apparently slept through his classes as a history major(!) at Yale, didn't learn anything about the ethnic or religious make-up of Iraq before storming in, like a cowboy in a 50's western, to take out the guy in the black hat. He didn't think about what he would do after Saddam Hussein was captured and "brought to justice." He didn't think about the havoc that would be wreaked by invading, the hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians who would be killed before a state of civil war ensued. He didn't stop to think about just how many Muslims overseas would turn against America as a result of his actions. Yes, the Taliban are stone-age thugs. But there are thugs in many parts of the world. Kim Jung Il and Omar Hassan al-Bashir, the President of the Sudan, come to mind. In many minds, George W. Bush should be included in that list. We Americans need to figure out a new way to make a positive contribution.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Frank Yanczer, Missouri — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:33:40 GMT

Islam is a great religion that has been given a hard way to go. As with any growth in any business there are kinks in the chain. The problem lies not in the chain but, in the kinks. Remove them and the chain will function as intended. All people should have some kind of faith in a supreme being that will protect them in times of need and provide them with the belief that a better world does exist and we need to seek it out freely and without judgment. A simple shave should not be a death warrant.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Justin — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:42:22 GMT

Stupid, stupid, stupid! But just keep in mind that this is religious extremism and not representative of Islam as a whole. There is fanaticism in every religion and ideology. Poverty and ignorance...simple people are very impressionable.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sam spoons Fat City, Kansas — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:43:29 GMT

Go after bin laden wherever he is. Pull troops out of iraq and send them to afghanistan. The world and your will support you.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Brett, St. Pete, FL — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:49:26 GMT

Do not be too quick to judge, an animal may feel and reason but it can never be truly compared to one who improvises and adapts to every curve and only fails when hope is gone. The Taliban is cunning not well stupid many assume that because their judgement is blocked by prejudices and segregation. Underestimating the Taliban will be a costly mistake. People in that area of the world know this because they live with it. America does not have this type of behavior in it. There are not revolts against our government like there are in their country. You cannot compare apples to oranges. Next time try to contrast them. Anger, wrath, and hatred will only blind you to the truth. Do not let yourselves be blinded, have some empathy and see it in someone else's point of view. Do not just think, feel, none of you know all of this situation, nor I, you must not judge unless we will be plunged into being segregated ourselves. THANK YOU

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

F.Burton, Fultondale, Al. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:50:50 GMT

Everyone is picking on poor Antonella. This is a [erfect microcosim of the entire situation. If you took the time to really read what she says, you would realize she was using sarcasm to make a point. You form an opinion based on partial interpretation of the facts. The same is true about blamimg muslims for the actions of the taliban. Extremists will use any tool at their disposal to grab whatever power they can. Moderate muslims should take a stand against the use of their religion for the subjugation of people. Until they do, I feare we will never defeat the ones who are responsible for the wrongs commited in the name of Muhammed, or Christ, or any other belief.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Anise, Miami, Florida — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:52:29 GMT

fanatics in any religion scare me.... they are the equivilent of pat robertson and jerry fallwell in this country, neo nazi's here in england, germany and scandanavia. How about we stop polarizing people and focus on what we all have in common.... a yearning to live in peace and tranquility

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mike, St. Louis, MO — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:55:01 GMT

I find it interesting how people of multiple faiths, whether Christianity, Islam, Judism, or other, think they can speak for God and, worse, act as if they were God. Ultimately, He will be our judge, not other men. As for Islam itself, doesn't the Koran say something to the extent that anyone who believes in God will not be abandoned by him, whether he be Muslim, Christian, Jewish, etc.? Strange how some individuals seem to use God as a justification for their own actions and ignore the parts of their faith that doesn't suit their needs. My own faith, Christianity, based on forgiveness, has been misused by inflexible men who seem to think they have the ultimate authority to speak for God, so I am not surpised this is happening in another faith as well. As for those who object to the United States going after the Taliban and Al Qaeda, remember they attacked us on our soil first, now they're attacking anyone who dares to interpret their own faith differently. They will face the consequences of their hubris, sooner or later.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Open your eyes — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:56:14 GMT

Maybe if America wasn't giving the military dictator Musharaf millions of dollars, Pakistanis could elect representatives that would enforce the law. The Pakistan military is supported by Mullahs(priests) who support Taliban. Islam is a religion of peace as most religions of the world. Only the Mullahs, Taliban, and Pakistani military/government establishment uses it for its own agenda. As usual, it all goes back to American sticking its nose in other countries affairs. If Saddam was a dictator, so is Musharaf, so are 100 other dictators in the world.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

wendy S. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:58:10 GMT

On the dogmas of religion, as distinguished from moral principles, all mankind, from the beginning of the world to this day, have been quarreling, fighting, burning and torturing one another, for abstractions unintelligible to themselves and to all others, and absolutely beyond the comprehension of the human mind. -- Thomas Jefferson, letter to Archibald Carey, 1816

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Fed Up — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 22:58:59 GMT

As long as we keep talking about how "terrifying" these "radical Muslims" are, the more they will see the United States as fearful of them. And as long as we remain fearful of them, then they will continue to inflict the ultimate terror upon us - fear itself. This is exactly what they want from us, and that's exactly what we're giving them. So we have to make one of two choices: either face them head on and do something about it; or just shut the hell up and deal with it.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Naz — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:05:11 GMT

I think, before blaming the religion of Islam, the adherents of fundamentalism should be addressed. Islam was made to be a progressive religion; in its purest form, it was meant to be democratic, and also a religion which protected and progressed women's rights. Unfortunately, people have manipulated our texts to suit their needs. This fundamental behaviour is not the fault of Islam, the religion of PEACE, but rather, the small minority of followers who are extremists. To Mr. Fishkill of New York-Islam is not a problem, and Muslims certainly arent, unless you're claiming that I (a fifteen year old girl) am a threat to you, and a problem for America. The Pashtun, as stated in the article, are a group that are "fiercely independent", hence, they would not allow themselves to be subjugated to Pakistani laws. Pakistan has tried repeatedly in history to control the fundamentalists that she is overrun by, and unfortunately has failed. It is certainly not, however, the responsibility of the United States to go start a war in Pakistan. Every nation has a right to national sovereignty, a right which has been flagrantly violated by President Bush.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

alfred az. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:07:41 GMT

I share the opinions of mister Bueno. My biggest fear is if there is another major attack in America then the government will be forced to react against the muslim community good and bad alike, internment camps, deportation, etc. A lot of senseless suffering for a lot of innocent people. So come on all you good americans that share the muslem faith, stand up and kick the extremists out

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Peter C, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:25:43 GMT

Wow, alarming, and sad. Is this a true story? I am not sure. The Taliban seem portrayed as Islamic extremists in every article I've read....Why the need for social control through religion....Why place so much emphasis on religion, any religion for that matter....Taliban now, the holy wars hundreds of years ago in the name of spreading Christianity.... All due and benefiting those who want to control those who need to follow, be saved or believe in something other than the poverty religion seems to cater to. The only people who benefit from religion are those running the show. I seen millionaires made from selling religion, Evangelist, Catholics, ect. A very few lead the multitudes yet the multitudes are no better off. Bring about wealth to these poor nations, and you will no longer breed extremists but moderates willing to keep what wealth will have brought them...freedom!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

SkiMan, St. Paul, MN — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:27:31 GMT

This situation is being created intensionally, it gives the pak government more cards to play with. Same reason both India and Pakistan have not solved the Kashmir issue. No where does Islam tell people to shave or not to shave a beard and there is no law that gives you a death sentence for shaving your beard. There are laws, strict laws, and eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth and a life for a life, but if you forgive then you are the better man and God will give you your reward in the hereafter. Nowhere does it say break things and kill people if they shave beards. Everyone is reponsible for their own conduct. But an islamic society, just like New York society has rules of decency / indecency and there will be fines punishment for crimes and immorality. Very civil things. These Taleban are making a mockery of Islam. Whereas, when you read the Quran, it talks about galaxies being created and that creation of such has not stopped but continues. Talks about folded space, time warping concepts, genetic mechanisms, existence of matter as atomic and subatomic particles. concept of energy from stars. concepts in logic. and that in the end everything in the universe will be folded up again. Yet these taleban can only come up with issues of sizes of beards. When I was in Pakistan, I learnt that it was recommended that you groom yourself well and trim the beard to make it look neat. Islam is not a way of savages but it is being projected in this image. Unfortunately. When people show sarcasm by saying ...Ah.. the religion of peace...and quote such things as in the above news. I wonder whether they actually read anything from islamic sources. If anyone is willing to learn the truth, then he/she should ernestly pray to God to show them the true path. He will show it. Just don't reject it too quick. There is choice. The Quran says....it is God who created everyone, but some people believe in Him and some don't...and God will NOT force anyone to believe in Him.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mr. Wonderful, Va. Beach, VA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:31:58 GMT

What was the goal of the 9/11 hijackers? I believe that they intended to pick a fight with the US. I believe that they knew the newly elected moron (Bush) would take the bait and sink this country deep into a war that we could never win. If Gore had rightfully been elected president, things would be very, very different today. He wouldn't have been suckered into doing the Taliban's bidding. I am so ashamed to be an American.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jana, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:32:05 GMT

100 years ago, this land (USA) was a land of lawlessness too. Afganistan is behind ...that's all. Some people think that killing animals is barbaric and cruel. In my opinion there is nothing wrong with their beleif. Just because majority of the Christians do eat meat and their religion allows that (recommends that?), is Christianity a barbaric religion? Open up your minds people. Shit happens!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Lane,Naples, Florida — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:33:43 GMT

Dear We Need Peace, We need freedom, and equality just as much. All but true idiots (often spelled l-i-b-e-r-a-l-s) know that the Muslim religion is not to blame. Bless you and God Bless the World.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:40:46 GMT

This article is just further evidence of the brutality in which the Taliban ruled in Afghanistan and continues to do today in the tribal regions. The civilian populations need to arm themselves heavily, organize and root out these @#$%@#$@. Fight for your freedom, death rather than slavery. Give me Liberty or give me death.....Onward humanity! If they wish to bring death upon you for not following their edicts they deserve no less.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Julio from El savador, Orlando, Florida — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:44:59 GMT

MAY GOD always bless AMERICA the BEAUTIFUL!! In respond to the story; These people have no way of defending themselves against those (Not Muslims)But simply put!! Terrorists!! I just became an American citizen and i am very proud of it. I learn the language and abide by the rules!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

gung ho Jo — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:49:22 GMT

apparently you people do not understand that if we allow this sort of totalitarianism to exist in any corner of the world, however remote it may seem,it is a direct threat to western civilization.The ultimate goal of these extremists is for the downfall of our culture and way of life and the conversion of all to Islam. As long as we have enough gasoline to fill up our SUV's and snowblowers the people of this country continue to ignore the fact that we have been at war for more than 2 decades.Complacency is not what is needed at this point in history.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

PB, Tustin, CA — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 23:58:37 GMT

What the Taliban are doing in Pakistan and Afganistan is no different than what the Catholic Church did in the Dark/Middle Ages. If you have a group of believers who you keep in ignorance and not teach them to read the word themselves, they will believe anything that the clerics teach them. Most of the lower level clerics can't read either, but are very infuencial to others so they continue to spread the lies to others. This is a cycle that must be broken by education and not by bombs. If we could manage to teach everyone in the world to do something as simple as read and educate them to a least what we in America call and 8th grade education, most of this would go away. But we don't want to educate the poor and disinfranchised. It takes away from America's power to do so. The poor and disinfranchised in America think to themsleves that "at least we're better off them those people." How sad is that? When we start educating ourselves and others, we can stop living in fear.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:05:30 GMT

We can all thank Al Gore for this. Before the day of the Internet, this type of news would NEVER be broadcast....not because it is important--especially in terms of human rights--but because it is from such a backwoods backwards place, it would not be newsworthy. And here it is...on the front page of MSN, literally screaming for you to take notice.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Paul F. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:13:04 GMT

Let them have the Bajour Tribal Area. However, don't let anyone or anything in or out of the area until they are no longer a threat.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Kamillah Khan — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:14:54 GMT

This again is an example of Muslims not knowing their own religion. A beard for a Muslim man is required according to Saheeh Ahadeeth, but it must also be noted that if a Muslim man does not choose to keep a beard there is No Islamic Punishment in this world for him not keeping a beard. There is no physical punishment for not keeping a beard. If the Taliban has issued the death penality for this crime, then they are a misguided sect and not following the Qur'aan and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). As many other sects in Islam they do not know the religion they profess to follow. Kamillah K

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

LDH, Louisville, KY — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:22:06 GMT

I'll keep it simple. We are in charge. The US is the only world "super power". We must communicate with any legitimate State. It's called agreement/consensus. Let the individual governments govern. The UN can sort out the issues. The United States can strike if needed and back off to let the process continue. STOP using fossil fuels. The US needs to stop giving others reasons to complain. It's like being the parent or the boss, we are empowered. Some day soon that may not be the case.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jason London,Ont Canada — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:25:05 GMT

It's hard to believe that these kinds of things still happen in this day in age...We should have just bulldozed that whole part of the world...I hope my son doesn't have to put up with this crap when he gets older

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Reality check — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:25:06 GMT

Psssht. See what religion does to you? Not only Islam, but ALL religion. Remember the Christians? Remember all the "missionaries" who told the natives to convert or die? The world would be a better place without religion.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dan, Buena Park, California — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:27:30 GMT

Allison, There are lot of opions posted here, Who's right? One thing is for sure. A bunc of folks out there don't know a facetious comment when they see it. I liked it!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Hippiemom, Clearlake Ca. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:29:29 GMT

I don't think these rules have anything at all to do with god or religion, it's just a way for a set on men to be in power of another set of men, and as long as they can get away with it, they will..After all, all the christians are allowing George Bush to stay in power, and he's not as smart as a gorilla!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Howard carr — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:30:23 GMT

Same old rhetoric.Supposedly we are in a war so lets kill tmem all and go home.Death is all they understand

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Adam Lotz — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:30:53 GMT

Islam IS a religion of peace. Taliban are not spokespersons for Islam, they are a bunch of retards who liked the taste of power and cannot abandon it. There are extremists in all religions who do horrible things. THEIR idea of their religion tells them its the right thing to do. A tiny minority does NOT speak for an entire people/religion (any peolple, any religion). Examine your prejudices and bigotry. Many of the comments above reflect a Taliban-like mind set.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John I — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:31:03 GMT

Aren't you glad the founding fathers of our nation had the wisdom to prohibit the incorporation of religion into our government? There is no doubt there are Christians who would like to similarly control our lives if given the authority to do so.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:38:16 GMT

The poster from San Jose should stop posting and start reading. Not only this does NOT happen in ANY other Islamic country, ALL of the Islamic world has condemned the Taliban. Just because you dont know sometjong, doesn't mean it doesnt exit.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Sara,Virginia — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:40:51 GMT

For all those who say moderate Muslims are "silent": The western media does not highlight any of their actions or viewpoints. You will hear about every single terrorist act but someone condemning terrorism is relegated to a column on page 5 of the newspaper (case in point: CAIR, council on american-islamic relations, published a statement condemning terrorism. How much coverage did that get???)

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Joe, OH — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:51:33 GMT

Its pretty sad that we have more people flying over from OUR country to defend them, then they have from their own country, defending themselves. I know their in pretty deep, and we are being blamed for not helping them, but who flew the plane?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Joseph F. Mckinley — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:55:48 GMT

Its werid, I don't know if I would believe it considering the source, remeber our media is famous for propaganda. I do find it a sad irony at how We Christains in America are so quick to say Islamic people are EVIL HEATHENS, yet Islamic law forbids the practice of abortion. At the same time Christian America turns a blind eye to the abortion clinics on street corners in America..I would love to see what would happen if Some rich fool tried to open an Abortion clinic in the most liberal of all Islamic nations... I also find it a sad and evil irony at how We Christians call Islamic people evil yet defened abortion as the "woman's RIGHT to choose"...These people make no pretense to the evil of abortion, its child murder plain and simple, even these backwards people understand this.. I highly doubt my comment will be posted because its fly's in the face of what I "think" they wish the comments to reflect. Just food for thought.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

hals layton, utah — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 00:58:20 GMT

why can't people just get along killing someone for a shave in my opinion the world is gonna end if peace and love and respect for one another don't start becoming more prominant

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sebastian — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:08:11 GMT

There is no god. Religion is Nonesense. Al the religions should be eliminated as backwards, including cristians and Jews. Long live to the scientific view of the world. Down with idolatry.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John DOE, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:09:30 GMT

Beards? Freedom? Religion? None of this is really going to matter after 2008; when the Real ID act becomes law. That's when you'll have to have your RFID chipped identification to do anything. (even buying a razor) Sometimes I wonder jus' who the terrorists REALLY ARE?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John, USA Baby! — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:11:09 GMT

Ya know...the world is a crappy place as we all know. No one is ever satisfied and everyone wants to be king. Well...mostly everyone. We need to step back...and honestly mind our own business. We have enough problems of our own then to be peddling in other countries affairs. Let's get a grip and worry about global warming, fossil fuel depletion, our homeless, our un-employed, etc. We have a country to run people! Like Nike says...just DO IT!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Peace, but not through ignorance — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:12:47 GMT

P.S. I missed something really important mentioned in Sana's post. When did Timothy McVeigh ever profess to be a christian or a member of ANY religion (except his own warped beliefs)?!!!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

William Vance, Kualal Lumpur, Malaysia — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:15:48 GMT

I live in Malaysia which is 75% Muslim. I couldnt find a gentler, more law abiding and nicer people anywhere in the world. In Malaysia, actions such as these are condemned and considered absurd. Islam is not what the Taliban is conveying. My message is, please do not judge all Muslims based on actions of a bunch of criminals such as the taliban and others throughout the Muslim world

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

ken, chicago, Illinois — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:21:17 GMT

Will the REAL muslims stand up and defend yourselfs!! and stop leaving that task for the rest of the world.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Sue I., Mant., MN — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:31:59 GMT

Glaringly obvious - The Taliban are comprised of evil, power-craving individuals whose ONLY use for their "religion" is for manipulation of the fanatically religious. The fanatics, in turn, have had their whole lives saturated with this demented distortion of a valid religion. Some are weak, some are ignorant, some are criminally insane - all are brain-washed, all are horribly wrong. I'm willing to bet it's impossible to diffuse their "dedication". As to the Pashtun tribes "bowing" to the terrorists' edicts - it doesn't seem so much a matter of ignorance, illiteracy, lack of education, or even a matter of them wanting to lead "religiously correct" lives, so much as just wanting to be allowed to live. And (maybe I'm missing something here) if these people are in such dire financial straits that losing business to the tune of 2 cents per shave will cause "severe economic hardship" - WHAT, exactly, can these people use to purchase the weapons they would need to "rise up and defend themselves"? There are pseudo-victims, and there are the real victims. DON'T blame these victims. Oh, and Professor Joe? Re: God... barring all else - I'd rather believe in God and be mistaken, than NOT believe - and be mistaken. That would be an eternal "Ouch".

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Flori , Belton , Mo — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:43:07 GMT

The thing that is amazing to me is that you don't hear the bleeding heart liberals cry about something like that or about the terrible way woman are treated in muslim countries (do some research on rape laws for example ) or about the muslim militias commiting genocide in Darfur . You do see them cry over Gunatanamo Bay and they sure hurt when Israel kills any Palestinian militant . But then of course , our great media don't make that big of a deal out if it either , cause they are liberals also and they are to busy making Bush look bad .

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Naimah Muhammad, Denver CO — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 01:45:05 GMT

This is the reason I am now non-religious. But as a former Muslim I feel a duty to let people know that Islam is a peaceful religion as is Christianity. However, the people that follow these religions still have choices as human beings and that is to live Godly people and let him judge or try to be Gods and judge other people. I ask you not to attack Islam ( or any other religion for that matter) but to take a good look at the hypocrites that make ignorant decisions and damage the image of religion.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Kate, Detroit Michigan — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:05:23 GMT

These people have no right to choose. I can't believe that. I feel so bad for those people.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

David Thompson, Russell, KS — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:05:40 GMT

George Bush isn't at fault here. Not all muslims believe the same way the extremist Taliban do. If this were the case we would all be dead for breaking some law of the Bible. What needs to be done over there is the police need to start doing their jobs and arresting these troublemakers. As I recall when President Bush sent our troops into Iraq we wiped out the mainstream talaban within a week. A couple of stealth bombers loaded to the teath and unloading on the taliban would wipe a good portion of them out. But the Democrats don't want us to finish the job we started. Thank God I live two blocks from our local National Guard Armory so when the Talaban attack us over here I'll have something to defend our country with. The Republicans giveth, the Democrats taketh away. Like that Democrat Senator who added an additional month of Daylight saving time which starts this Sunday.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Minaxi, Durham, North Carolina — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:07:52 GMT

Islam is a religion of peace, but its the extremists who make it otherwise. There are extremists in all religions from Christianity to Buddhism, it's a matter of the culture and history of the region. Christianity is widespread in America because it was brought over here by early settlers, and the nation was founded on the basic principle of equality since the people leaving the other parts of the world to move here DIDNT HAVE THAT SINCE THEY WERE USUALLY LOWER CLASS IN THEIR OWN COUNTRIES ('America, a land of opportunity' ring a bell?) Yet the nation has laws and regulations that allow everyone to practice what they believe, these laws exist solely because they were not available in their own countries (many came here to escape religious persecution) That is not the case in Asia and other parts of the world where civilazation existed for centuries before it did in the western world. The ideas and cultural beleifs have been held together for so long in the middle east and south asia because history and culture are so deeply rooted within and is a way of life for many people. Therefore, to simply look upon the innocent people as 'weak' and having no 'backbone' is wrong and unjustified. The situation from the early 1900s in Europe with Hitler and the Jews can be applied here as well. Those who didn't abide by Hitlers laws were taken away to camps along with the Jews! When a government instills fear into the hearts of the people, the people abide by the laws and regulations. What about Argentina and Chile in the 1970s and 1980s, when the CIA helped kick out leaders we didnt like and allowed their respective armies to take over? There was a 11pm curfew! and if you were caught outside, you would be picked up and shot regardless of your reason! Thousands of people were murdered and tortured ranging from the elderly to pregnant women! The point is, this happens or has happened everywhere. The Taliban have existed since the mid-late 1900s and the Western World JUST GOT TO KNOW ABOUT IT AFTER 9/11. You cant expect people's personalities or mentalities to change over night or even for over a few years! They wont be able to revolt until the Taliban and Pashtus are powerless! It's our duty as fellow human beings to help those in need, especially if we have a history of making things wrong to begin with!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mike, St. Petersburg, FL — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:09:02 GMT

"God help us all, I only want a world left for my children to leave happily in." Tom in PA, you live in your happy place because a few million Allied forces saved the world from facism 60 odd years ago. The war we thought we won and now are losing again is to communists like you who want us all to get together and sing cum-by-ya (spelling???, whatever you get the point). These people and all those who hate the United States are jealous, pure and simple. You live in the desert, life sucks, what did expect, get out, get a job and get out of the 14th century. The US has saved this world from facism, famine, plauge, earthquakes, floods, and stupid more times than any of us can count. The only battle we are losing is the weenie-pukes like you who aren't willing to fight for a good life for not just us, but everyone. You are probably some college employee living a non-competitive life wish you had what hard working people have, same as the schmucks making people keep their beards and live in the dry empty desert hating life and wondering why not me...

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Ali M DearbornHeights,MI — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:10:51 GMT

If we get involved in it, do you think Americans will be ready for another war? I can assure you it is much better to stay out of pointless conflicts like this one, what will it do other than cost lives of our own people? And as for the people above me, I'm Muslim my self and I don't believe in blowing my self up; so please don't think that all Muslims are bad because it's only a small group that is. Hey I am only 15 years old, so what am I gonna influence I guess.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Von Abston, Beverly Hills, California — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:24:46 GMT

I like most of you think it is ridiculous that the Taliban would threaten to kill someone for shaving off their beard. But what's just as scary is the comments on this blog from Americans saying we should just blow them all up. Do you really hear what you are saying. Is it any wonder that the majority of the world hates the United States. Of course it doesn't help that Bush is our incompetent leader. This way of thinking that someone is different from us so lets just get rid of them is a Nazi mentality.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

G. Andrew Noska Clifton Park NY. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:32:53 GMT

There seems to be a small consensus running thru some of the offerings here. Where indeed are the "moderate" muslims in all this? The [ soldiers of ]the United States, a/w/a/ many others are really trying, and dying, to help make it possible for you to live peacefully under rule of law, with a chance for a decent life. Iraq and the muslim world has the resources to make it all work. This impinges upon you not to sit idly by on your hands, and let others do all the work for you, which includes not standing by and allowing the lunatic fringe megalomaniacs among you to throw those resources away! We have freedom and liberty in these United States, because we fought for it, against the likes of Germany and Japan. Know this: Freedom is not free! History will exonerate our attempts to help the rest of you that want freedom. Some envisioned the radical __________ element trying to bring the battle to our shores? All I can say to that, is do not start something you haven't the will or ability to finish. Hornets can be killed elsewhere one by one.....you'll die regretting the day you attacked the hive.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Doug Goar, Pensacola, FL — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:38:00 GMT

Go back and look at Afganistan under the Taliban before we got involved there. These are not new control measures. They were in effect at that time. Pakistan is a much better developed country although this area is still tribal. I doubt that Musharraf will allow this to go on for too long before he does something. To do so will destabilize his whole country. Just maybe he will let some of our killing machines fly over the area and just maybe there will be some kind of a cooperative offensive. Just go back and read the history though. It is same song, just a different location.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Chaudry — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:42:57 GMT

Beard is "sunnah" of the prophet. Sunnah is not compulsion. If one wants beard one should keep it , if not there shouldnt be any compulsion to keep it. However, beard is honor of a moslem and it shouldnt be in the form of styles. Let the hair grow and dont cut them. BUT , always remember the different between "Farz" and "Sunnah" , beard is Sunnah and is hence not a compulsion. Tribal areas seem not to have read the basics of Islam even.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

abdul latif — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:47:41 GMT

i am muslem and i have i don not shave ,but trim. in islam it is an axample of the prophet not a must, those taliban know nothong about islam ,they follow the wahabist in saudi arabia who change the religeon as they want not what is real islam, if usa wants to irradicate taliban they must start with their friends in saudi arabia , but sure because of the strong oil relationship with saudies no changes will happen as long as money still buy bush administration

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jon Doe, NJ — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:52:56 GMT

These morons are not muslims. They call themselves to be muslims but in reality they are the followers of the people that fought against the Prophet and his family.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Thomas Haberthaler — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:53:06 GMT

I'll never go there, according to my beliefs and customs, a man whom doesn't shave is portraying that there is illness or injury to himself and that he can't. Also, according to my customs and beliefs it is a sign of laziness not to shave and also leaves one indistinguishable from a bum at a mission.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Tyler — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 02:57:19 GMT

hey idiots who blamed george bush its not his fault taliban were around since the end of the cold war... we asked osama for help durig then. so its not bushes fault if your still blaming bush agianst everything then you should just go leave the country because your a disgrace

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Muslim Convert, NJ — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:02:52 GMT

Let's all learn about Islam. If we're Christian, we'll be greeted by Prophet Adam, Abraham (Ibrahim), Moses (Musa), Noah, Joseph (Yusuf), Virgin Mary (Maryam), Jesus (Isa) peace be upon them all, and the list goes on. Anyway, if even 5% of Muslims are anything like the Taliban our planet would have been destroyed long ago. Prophet Muhammed, peace be upon him, received the message of the Holy Quran from God (Allah) from Angel Gabriel (Gibrille) confirming the Bible and Torah during the 6th Century... These Taliban today are Satan's (Shaitan) tools to turn humankind away from Islam. Satan does not want us to learn -- he wants us to close our hearts and eyes before we have a chance.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Jane Smith — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:03:27 GMT

After reading through a lot of these comments, I have to honestly admit that I'm sicked by some of them. Many of you are narrow-minded and severely undereducated, and not only that, but you can't even begin to imagine what it's like to be in these people's shoes. I've seen a few comments that advocate an invasion of Bajaur. The Taliban may move freely through it, but a carpet-bombing is unnecessary. There are innocent and decent people in that town, I'm sure, and it would be a shame for them to be killed in the name of "anti-terrorism" because of a few militants. I'm not of Middle-Eastern descent, nor am I a practicing Muslim, but I can realize what it must be like to be in their shoes. A few people have called the men of the Bajaur cowards because they refuse to shave their beards out of fear. Honestly, if you were in the same position as they are, wouldn't you be frightened as well? Though it may be over a facial hair, it's a matter of life and death for them. They have no choice but to submit unless they want to bring harm to their families or themselves. I think you should all appreciate the freedoms we have in America a bit more.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

carl — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:09:43 GMT

All religion has it's rituals, bias, and all religion in the end is politics. That's why religion was created. we have given TOO much respect to what people believe. Belief should be viewed for what it is at best speculation, and at worse stupidity.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

G.I.Joe. California, USA — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:24:47 GMT

Bin, where are you? Come on out Bin. I have some candy for you. Bin, lets talk. Tell me your problems. I can help. Just tell me where you are and I'll send somebody to guide you and your friends to the promiseland.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mark J Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:28:11 GMT

Here we go. I do not understand all these people blaming Bush for all of the things they don't like in the world. Bush does not and can not make choices like the ones that have been made since 9/11 alone. What is up with the guy who hinted at the Republican party wanting to take away all our freedoms? My freedoms are more at risk of the Democratic party and the ACLU. The ACLU takes on all these cases as long as they are against conservatives and religion (at least Christianity). Okay so we have established that the Taliban are not the "moderate" Muslims but the "moderate" Muslims, who so badly want us to leave them alone, are not doing anything about what the EXTREMISTS are doing. They tell us that no one blames Christianity for what people who blow up abortion clinics in the name of God and religion do. Well let me tell you something at least the rest of us CHRISTIANS hunt down the idiots and dogs that do such things and punish them for it. The Democrates in this country want us to not punish them severly though so they try to keep us from enforcing the death sentence. Let people abort innocent babies but lets not punish horrid criminals and lets save those whales. They don't want us to hurt or harm animals (not that any true Christian would) but they want to allow stem cell research that uses aborted babies. Should we be in Iraq? Personally I say no. My reason for that would not be well recieved so I will keep it to myself. Should these extremists be allowed to continue to terrorize the world? No. Should America be the big brother to the world and spank all the bad extremists? No. The moderates that sit back and allow the extremists to rant and rave should be spanked. You don't want us to blame all Islam for a few people? Then get off your lazy cowardly butts and do something about them yoursleves.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Dmitri Rusenko — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:28:33 GMT

The Taliban is just another feudalistic group attempting to consolidate power on the backs of the already oppressed. Doesn't matter if we call it religion, communism or nazism, it is only the projection of the aristocracy over the proletariat. No change to this society will occur until capitalism is allowed to build surplus for all. That should only take a few hundred years.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

G. Sturm — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:30:05 GMT

The Taliban and their zealot Muslim compatriots are an abhorrent bunch, no doubt. But equally abhorrent are those Americans who compare our President,our soldiers and our country to those evil fanatics.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Nick Eman, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:33:15 GMT

I find it ironic to read about recommendations to carpet bomb the Taliban (and Islamic extremists) to oblivion and I wonder, what kind of "Christian" (or whatever non-Muslim religion) would suggest an extremist and bloody solution such as this? I suppose it's the "eye-for-an-eye" kind of attitude taught in the Bible... wait, or is it the Koran? If one reads the Bible one will find abhorring suggestions of violence, I haven't read the Koran but I imagine that in the end the supposed word of God (Allah, Jehovah or his prophets/disciples), written and re-written by a few men and interpreted every which way by many, is no different.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Concerned for our own country, United States of America — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:49:22 GMT

Its an amazing story that is hard for me to try and truely understand. I cant imagine this kind of oppresion. We as Americans need to also realize we cant enforce our wishes or will onto the rest of the world. I wish any story about what is happening within our own borders would get this much attenetion. We have a failing education system, social security system, health care issues that a country of our stature should have left behind decades ago and on and on.... We cant ignore the rest of the world but maybe we need to focus a bit more on how our government has got our own country in such a mess and allow the governments of the world to stand on their own a bit more without the pressure or backing of the U.S.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

DD Wompus — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:50:55 GMT

Why not send Ann Coulter over there to deal with the radical Islamics? She seems to have all the answers... or so she says. I recall she offered "forced conversion to Christianity" as the way to rein in the Taliban after 9/11. Ann? Ann? Where are you when we need you?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sunshine,minneapolis,mn. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:51:14 GMT

why don't other muslims stand up and defend true Islam.I believe all religions intend for the same meaning, to coexist with nature and man and to act in love never in all that you do.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

sunshine,minneapolis,mn. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:56:56 GMT

why does Israel get a bad wrap, why would anybody want to hurt them their not involved. are they?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

USA GUY — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 03:59:06 GMT

Here is the message: Stand up to the bully, fight fire with fire, stand up for yourself, live free at all costs. This is what the U.S.A. and it's people (all races) have learned in our short history. We as a Country cannot get involved with another Country every time there is a problem. Here in the U.S. we deal with murder, rape, child molestation, poverty, racism, spousal abuse, religious zealots, court appointed judges who let the worst scum of the earth go free, and keep innocent people locked up, and billion dollar business's that treat customers and employee's like gum on the bottom of their ugly corporate shoes. All of this, we deal with on a second by second basis. We should get involved in another country's affairs, ONLY if the rest of the free world is willing to get involved, and is willing to sacrifice an equal share of time, energy, and people to make the world terror free. P.S....terror free includes all the things I mentioned earier, in our own Country. God Bless The U.S.A., our citizens, and our Brave Military!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

jack, florida — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:00:37 GMT

I too am outraged by the silence of the so called moderate muslims in every country and that loud silence only reinforces to me that the basic muslim belief systems are more aligned with the taliban thinking than not.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

MICHAYL MELLEN — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:02:39 GMT

ok, shaving of beards is punishable by death and they dont even have freedom or a democratic form of government. They must be taking their ques from the Friendly Frontier of Abilene Texas that has passed one of the most restrictive NO SMOKING laws in the country or if you dont clean your yard to the military specifications of the "keep ablene beautiful" committee one would be liable for a $500 fine. I also mention that if one has had graffiti placed on their property that person faces a $500 fine for not cleaning the Gangs mess up--Humm I wonder if that fine goes for each of the city councilmembers that allow graffiti on the trash monsters in the city owned alleys. Talk about oppresive religious goernment, try living in a town with a church on every corner, with 3 religious universities, and a right wing christian taliban mentality to the public that lives in THE FRIENDLY FRONTIER of Abilene Texas

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Chris, Jacksonville — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:07:05 GMT

In response to Sara from Pakistan, I may be wrong but when exactly was the last time the US bombed Pakistan? You may have fogotten that, the people we are after, attacked us or haved tried to attack us for over ten years. If they are going to get help from local tribes, then those helping are guilty by association! Do you remember this little country called the USSR? Who secretly supported the Afghani resistance against that invader? Hint...USA. How easily that "help" is so easily forgoten. May want to brush up on the history of this little conflict called World War 2. If it wasn't for American troops, you would probably be speaken German right now. Do yourself a favor and ask yourself this..what has the Taliban done for you lately? Short list huh?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

CW2 Army Aviator — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:07:56 GMT

As a soldier who has been in the war on terrorism, I have this to say: we are doing a job that needs to be done. If we pull out of Afghanistan and Iraq, these bastards will win and it will de-stabilize the whole region...and next we'll be fighting this crap on our on soil. But we can't do it all...these countries and people need to stop bickering about their differences and stand up to terrorists, insurgents, any oppressor. (And no, you liberal tree-hugging, welfare-giving, hug-world-to-love-each-other, stop the war now morons, Bush is not an oppressor. He's doesn't make the best decisions, but at least he has the sack to step up and make one.)

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Shaheed, Landover, MD — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:09:22 GMT

We love radical examples of people who do not really understand Islam. This is not islam. These people have added unsual and nasty rules and are calling it islam. Please be aware of this. SHAME on MSNBC.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

I.P. Auften — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:16:35 GMT

A shave for 2 cents. Outrageous!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Steve, Des Moines, IA — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:17:37 GMT

To my neighbor Mike H: where in the bible does it say you can't shave? - two places, and it gets better than that - this is "Quoted" as being "The Spoken Word" of God: Leviticus 21:5 and 19:27 - of course this is right next to Lev 19:28 which says you can't put tattoo marks on your body or 19:19 which says you can't wear clothing that is made with more than 1 type of material. I sure hope I don't get stoned for having elastic in my underwear. Don't forget, "radical" Christianity is rampant in the good 'ol USA - Home Schooling is on the rise and some Christ Based science curriculums teach children, TODAY IN THE USA, that the earth is only 6000 years old and that dinosaurs died because there was no room on the Arc (even though Genesis 6:19 clearly says that Noah was to bring two of every kind of creature, even Dinosaurs) - lack of education can even exist in the most educated country in the world. I can't believe that we as moderate christians are not taking to the street and demanding that this ignorance be eradicated (sound familiar to others calling for this type of reaction from moderate muslims?) And finally, here's a passage from the Bible that I wish we would all actually listen to (and maybe even apply to our immigration arguments). Leviticus 33-34 - "When an alien lives with you in your land, do not mistreat him. The alien living with you must be treated as one of your native-born. Love him as yourself, for you were aliens in Egypt. I am the LORD your God."

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Concerned — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:21:15 GMT

I think we should all forget about God and dwell on spirituality. Every race has a belief in God, but don't live a spiritual life. If you live a spiritual life you will be concerned about the welfare of your fellow man, no matter what race they are. We all will be held accountable for our actions in the end, not by God who loves us unconditionally, but by our ownselves. You can learn your lessons or keep repeating them.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Michael K, Sydney Australia — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:31:39 GMT

We can never rid the world of terrorism. So long as minority groups desperately try to prove themselves in a world that doesn't care about them (and why should it care anyway?). What point do they have to prove, really? Are they jealous of the western world? I am saddened by the violence and hatred.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Raji, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 04:50:37 GMT

If a government can't protect it's own people from loose religious murderers, then who can?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Danny,Redlands Cal. — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 05:15:24 GMT

Bush is not the problem in the Taliban it's their own goverment.Bush is just doing his best with the things that are in front of him..To blame him is like walking on wet grass up[hill].

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bob T, Pendleton, OR — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 05:31:39 GMT

Wow, lots of interesting comments and some quite informed, some clueless. So, with a son in the Marines who did Afghan in '05 and finishing Iraq I hope soon, here goes. I've read various books about the Taliban and Islam by reputable sources, also watched some respectable TV about how terrorists come up from little kids. First, for those who don't think we are at war with these people, WAKE UP! You are foolish beyond all imagining. They want world domination, and all must believe their way or die, period. No compromise whatsoever, and this is all Muslim radicals. To you Muslim moderates: you either help out here, as the rest of us can't tell who the real bad guys are, or you are guilty by association. You bitch about our troops going into different places, what do you expect? We've been attacked, we are at war, kids. If you don't like it, take care of it, because we don't want it on our soil again, and if you cowards won't do your own job, we have to, there are no options, and England and other Western countries are in the same boat. These creeps have stated their aims and we have to stop them, by any means. When my son was in Eastern Afghanistan, his unit got in a night battle while they were sleeping, which caused some Purple Hearts(including his)and a combat promtion to him as well. When they had routed the stragglers who were running toward a sympathetic village, a B52 dropped a 2,000lb bomb on the Taliban and a second on the village, killing everyone. It makes me sad, but that's what it takes, the ruthless annihilation of them and their support systems, but also wherever possible our people to go in to towns and assess their needs after consulting with the leaders of the community(and we do this to some degree) and put the resources toward those ends. We use the club with the carrot, so we show no fear, which they take full advantage of any perceived weakness, but also show benevolence. We and our allies need to do this everywhere the terrorists pop up, period. And if you Muslims with decent hearts wish to do this yourselves or with our help, great, you would be welcome. Otherwise, shut the hell up and get out of the way, we'll be saving your butts as well as ours, because they hate you too. This shaving thing is a mild precursor to just be an example for the future.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bob T, Pendleton, OR — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 05:53:02 GMT

Oh, one more thing. As far as Muslim reactions to Israel and to Muslims who we in the West would say had been bad, here's a story. A couple of years ago, I went to hear a lecture by a man, whos name escapes me, but you could probably look up. During the first Gulf War, he was an Air Force intelligence officer who was fluent in Arabic and became General Schwarzkopf's translator. At one point, in the General's tent, the ranking officers from the allied Arab countries were there, and they all were watching the coverage on CNN, this before the actual push into Kuwait and Iraq. Many of you may remember when the Scuds were launched into Israel. When that showed up on TV, all the Arab officers burst into spontaneous applause. The Air Force officer was appalled(I believe the General wasn't there at that moment), and he made a comment that that wasn't right, their enemy was behind this, attacking our ally. Essentially what they said was, "the enemy of our enemy(Israel) is our friend," even though they prepared for war against Saddam, they cheered his rocket attack. Make sense? Then, later, when our troops were rolling toward Baghdad. As most know, they were told to stop, we had accomplished our mission, etc., which is partly true. The real reason came from these same supposed allies. The message was relayed to President Bush Sr., that if we went to Baghdad and captured or killed Saddam, these supposed allies would turn on us and we'd be in for a real mess. We actually were set to go to Baghdad, but the other Arabs threw a wrench in it. This convoluted thinking is part of what causes problems in the Middle East and elsewhere under Muslim control. We aren't perfect by any means, but we don't pull crap like that, but it seems to permeate a lot of Arab thinking and causes a lot of distrust and problems. If you all in those or from those areas don't like it, then fix it, only you can.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Bring them home! Phoenix, Az — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 06:20:18 GMT

At what point will the Islamic people wise up and stop following these very dangerous extremists from making Muslims look like violent, barbaric people. Imagine how warped someones mind must be to kill another human because of a shave. The Taliban really do have too much time on their hands and they are proving that they will use it in a negative way. Doesn't the every day murder in Iraq and other Islamic nations embarass you? There are hundreds of millions of peace loving educated muslims in the middle east and many other parts of the globe. Why don't you clean up this garbage that insults all people and religion with their inhumane torture and killing for no reason other than we don't share or follow the same beliefs. Why doesn't the religion of peace give the same effort to peace as they do war? We need to get out of Iraq and Afghanistan or let the Islamic nations melt down on their own.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

LM, Johnstown, PA — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 06:28:45 GMT

As usual, senseless killing!!! Blame no one, blame everyone...everyone has their own beliefs and should be able to choose how he/she presents themselves. I feel that this all should have been ended along time ago...we have all this knowledge and prestige and we can't keep people from being persecuted over shaving? What is the whole world coming to? What happened to fighting for what is right and getting it done? Bomb the heck out of them and end it, cause I am so tired of hearing about it...we have starving, abused children that can't read or write..tired of wasiting time and money on people that, what care about a beard??? Let them kill themselves over somthing that stupid, when our own are dying from neglect!!!!!!!!!!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Canada — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 06:43:16 GMT

What a news...you guys make me laugh. Let me make it very simple to you all fellow Americans. When I went to school in Goodwill, OK (I called this place... American Waziristan). I got shot at wearing my national dress of Pakitan. Those red necks (okys) never respected my freedom in America. My point is I don't see whole lot of difference between Talibans from Waziristan and Red necks of Oklahoma or Texas. In case you guys don't know where Goodwill, OK is...It is north of Amirillo, Texas (Heehaw)

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Logic — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 06:55:20 GMT

All this wasted time, effort, and lives, for what? A belief in an invisible supieror being, who was created to keep the simple minded in-line. Its not all just politics, but something more basic, Religion. Too bad more people cant come to terms with the fact there is nothing after death but oblivion.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Muslim American, AZ — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 07:02:43 GMT

The root cause for all evil is greed. Power, $$$, oil, land I can go on forever. No matter what religion we follow if we could just stick to our own business we will be ok. I am muslim but do not force my believes on anyone nor do I let someone preach to me theirs. We got enough problems at home to worry about others in world. If that was not the case some crazy father would not fly himself and his daughter into his ex inlaws home, a teen uncle would not be doping his nephews, sick minded criminals would not be sexualy assaulting innocent children. Lets fix our own homes first before we can fix others. God bless us all.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Smith — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 07:22:07 GMT

Muslims always proclaim, "Please dont judge muslims for what these people do, its not true islam!" But they do nothing to stop thier own people, and celebrate when they kill any westerner. I dont believe any Muslim. Islam is a religion of terror, I dont care what you say, just watch the coverage of them sawing old mens heads off like the cowards they all are.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Buddhist, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 07:42:59 GMT

I believe Taliban had mislead the world in understanding Islam. I live in a country with 80% of its citizens being Muslim. Islam do not restrict or guide its believer to do anything, but it educate you to do your own judgement and evaluation; for peace and live in harmony with other. Although many may be different in terms of skin colors, races, religions, ethnics, customs, beliefs and cultures.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

John Sinclair — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 08:33:23 GMT

And where are our troops? Iraq? Why? Bush's private war has allowed the Taliban to go free while wasting American lives in Iraq.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

notbythehairofmychinnychinchin — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 08:55:09 GMT

flood the area with zz top videos give them beard mounted i pods with loud speakers impose a haircut surcharge to offset lost beard revenue seriously educate them relocate the barbers if they desire to continue their work impose a less dictattorial local govt while allowing some traditions to remain using reasonable good judgement and common sense

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Haroon-Peshawar-Pakistan — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 09:13:03 GMT

Basically, the true islam never reached to the people and the ignorant mullahs were the onlyone to interpret it. Actually, Islam is against ignorance not infidility thats why the period before islam is called the period of ignorance. I am a muslim. I do shave and I wear trouser also.Ignorance is a curse whether in Asia or in any part of the world. The only solution to my mind is to educate them and you will see all the problems would be solved. It has nothing to do with religion.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Chris S., Tucson AZ — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 10:23:24 GMT

Why aren't muslims protesting these extremist muslims? Why are they not speaking out? Why are they doing nothing? I just don't see any major outcries from thse supposibly "real muslims" against these extremest. If your a muslim why?

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Farhat Saleem, Karachi, Pakistan — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 11:15:36 GMT

It is sheer ignorance, as it is of course about the talibaan, to say that shaving or not shaving the beard is related with religion. And it is greater ignorance on the part of those who call themselves educated, to ascribe this act of taliban to muslims in general. People in US should have more news channels on their TV other than only the local channels so they have wider information about world at large.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Joseph Brewer, Lincoln, NE — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 13:31:45 GMT

I think that people need to remember that what the Teliban preaches is not infact the religion. They are essentially fanatics. Islam may be the religion of peace, but that doesn't necessarily mean that is how all people interpret it. Almost every religion at some point in time has done something abhorant in the name of their god. God is a powerful tool for doing horrible things and allowing the conscience to stay clean. In the end, the people living in the area are the ones who need to stand up for themselves...not the US, not any government.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

agnostic in SF — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 13:32:21 GMT

Taliban and beards? I just read a gang - public enemy - in Orange County, Calif, has put a 'hit list' of Police Officers. The gang punks in the U.S. are growing in numbers and violence. Can we start being tough on criminals / terrorists at home as well as we try abroad? The FBI knows of 'MAFIAS' from many countries right here but laws to protect us law-abing citizens also protect criminals. They know it. Ask any habitual criminal how much 'time' he will do for a crime and he'll tell you more precisely than a D.A. how much he'll actually serve. Build more prisons in the U.S. and lengthen sentences! And take away smoking and Television, etc. Make prison a detterent - not a social club for gangs to wreak havoc on the outside! Too many live in fear right here! Mad dogs must be dealt with! "Can't we all just get along" don't cut it... never has - never will. Get tough here at home!

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

You Wonder Why, Honolulu, Hi — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 13:37:35 GMT

I have read through all of the comments, and the bottom lines it the TALIBAN whom the CIA trained has turned against us. They may use Islam as their justification for their actions, and they claim to be Muslims, but the facts all point to : They are Radical/Extremist/Terrorist take your pick. Let's make it clear, the US is not at war with Islam or Muslims. And as some have pointed out, What has the Muslim majority done to stop/correct the actions of the Taliban? Have they denounced the Taliban? All I have heard about is Extremist/Radical Muslim Clergy who support Terrorist, Suicide Bombers, murderers, etc. Why don't the vast Majority of Muslims speak out? Does the Koran forbid speaking out and taking action in cases of Injustice, Human Rights, Murder? They speak of tolerance, this is not a case of a few bad boys misbehaving here! The US and the rest of the world became involved in your world, because you refused to take matters into your own hands. 911, Bombing in London, and elsewhere got the Worlds attention. You let them cause trouble on our turf and now the consequences of your tolerance stance are here facing you. I do not fully understand the Muslim faith, but it is High time that the Muslim community rise up against these Extremist/Radicals/Terrorist groups and stop them from using Islam as their excuse for their cause. The appearance to the rest of the World, is that Muslims as a whole support these groups in one way or another.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

peace, freedom — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 15:13:50 GMT

I think religion is a personal thing. The main important thing to me is to have a freedom in religion, no religion at all. It doesn't mean that I don't believe in God. Come on people we do live in 21st century and still some people fighting over shaving beard. That is soooooooooooo stupid.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

joan lucas, brooklyn, NY — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 16:24:17 GMT

No one in America has the right to critize the taliban or their religion. We don't even mention religion in school. Children don't say grace before eating.We have children who are not old enough to buy alcohol or cigarettes but are old enough to go to war and kill people. leave people's business alone and tend to our own. clean our own house first.

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Petra Cahill — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 17:15:25 GMT

Thank you for all of your comments. We've received hundreds related to this blog entry and it's not possible for us to publish them all. We are ending this discussion here. Please check back for more interesting updates to the World Blog.

Thank you, Petra Cahill, World Blog editor

In tribal Pakistan, a shave may cost your life

Mohamed, Beirut, Lebanon — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 16:25:25 GMT

Since all of you are saying that Taliban is the voice of Islam(all though the are very far) I will say that Ku Klux Klan are the voice of Christians worldwide since that is how you think!!!!!!