Australian PM Denounces Muslim Attitudes

Associated Press/Washington Post ^ | February 20, 2006 | MERAIAH FOLEY

[SJackson]

SYDNEY, Australia -- Australian Prime Minister John Howard said some segments of the country's Islamic community were "utterly antagonistic" to Australian society in comments published Monday that immediately drew criticism from a Muslim group.

Howard also denounced "extreme attitudes" held by some Muslims, including their views on women and support of jihad, or holy war. He said some Muslim immigrants had not integrated into Australian society as well as previous waves of Europeans and Asians.

"There is a fragment (of the Islamic community) which is utterly antagonistic to our kind of society, and that is a difficulty," Howard said.

"There is no equivalent of raving on about jihad ... that is the major problem," he added. "I think some of the associated attitudes towards women (are also) a problem."

[headsonpikes]

If only other Western leaders would exhibit similar honesty!

[B Knotts]

No kidding. If they all would say these things, I think things would change for the better.

[lesser_satan]

No doubt. Our own president, for starters.

[yoe]

"I think his comments will disappoint many mainstream Muslims because they come out of left field and they will not be seen just as criticism of a minority," Trad said.

Prime Minister John Howard's remarks are right on target; no political correctness here, just honesty and that is refreshing indeed!

[Redbob]

"There is a fragment (of the Islamic community) which is utterly antagonistic to our kind of society,..."

Do tell.

[finnigan2]

The fact that Howard can make these remarks and still remain popular tells me that he represents a majority of the voters opinions and, more importantly, he may be signaling future legislation designed to frog march those identified as being " antagonistic to our kind of society" out of the country at a moments notice.
In other words, Australia will not tolerate any "multiculti society" crap as a way of protecting the head hackers amongst them.

[The Cuban]

Muslim group offended at the truth? How come I can't beleive it? They are such a level headed bunch! (When they are not beheading)

[The Cuban]

400,000, 3,000 to on a cruis ship, times three cruis ships, 2 day round trip to indonesia, Australia could get rid of this problem in about half a year.

[sheik yerbouty]

Just say "G'day mate! How'd you like to be my chum?"