Quite correct. And I have a response. Here is something the US Muslim community could do that would really help.
We are about to engage in a war of ideas with the extremists of radical Islamicist sects and parties. I say a war of ideas, because the whole result will turn on the "recruitment" question, on the question of how the rank and file of average citizens in Muslim countries react to the struggle. Laden and company are counting on them reacting by excusing their murder policies, rather than siding with us. For our part we need to carefully aim in order to seperate moderate Muslims from the extremists.
This war of ideas will be decided by where the "split" is located, that define the two sides of the struggle. If the wedge is driven between all Muslims and all non-Muslims, then Laden and company have won. If it is driven between Laden and company and the majority of Muslims, then we have won.
Thus, it is a war of ideas. Laden offers a vision of medieval blood feud as the essence of a world civilization. I've studied that civilization, and I think Laden's rather a cramped and narrow view of it. I find his vision distinctly unappetizing, and can't recognize the Merciful and Compassionate anywhere within it.
The issue of the struggle will turn on whether most Muslims can see and side with a more attractive understanding of their civilization, and one less extremist and hostile to us, than the one Laden is offering. So here is what you can do.
Present such a vision. Preach to the majority of the Muslim world. Regard Laden as a direct competitor to yourselves, for the souls of your fellows throughout the Muslim world, and reach them. Save them from his grasp.
This would be good theology, and good patriotism. It would also be heartily appreciated, and a serious service to your country, your faith, and mankind.