After playing the role of pseudo historian, Obama today took on the mantle of pseudo theologian, reassuring Americans that Islamic law and teaching are not “responsible for violence and terrorism” — despite the plain fact that they are. As I delineated in “The Islamic State and Islam,” every atrocity IS has committed—whether beheading, crucifying, raping, enslaving, or burning humans—is legitimated by verses in the Koran and/or the words and deeds of Muhammad, that most “perfect” and “moral” man (Koran 33:21, 68:4). Even so:
President Obama says the U.S. is not at war with Islam but with people who have perverted the religion.
Some have criticized the White House for avoiding linking terrorism directly to Islamic extremism. But Obama says those fighting for the Islamic State group and al Qaeda are not religious leaders, but terrorists.
He says no religion is responsible for violence and terrorism. He says he wants to lift up voices of tolerance in the U.S. and beyond.
Obama was speaking Wednesday at a White House summit on countering violent extremism. He is calling for a focus on preventing terrorists from recruiting and inspiring others.