The Jerusalem Post  |  March 4, 2012

'Suicide Bombings Fair Response To Koran Burnings'

Matihullah had dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but he gave up his studies to become an Afghan suicide bomber.

By Reuters

Afghan protestors hold up Koran.  By Reuters/Adrees Latif

Matihullah, 24, had always dreamed of becoming a lawyer. Then news spread that Western soldiers had burned many copies of the Muslim holy book at a NATO base in Afghanistan.

He gave up his studies and embarked on a new mission in life -- to become a suicide bomber.

"Since the desecration and burnings of holy books of the Koran, I have been burning with the desire of revenge. It is running in my blood," said Matihullah, wearing the traditional white skull cap worn by many Afghans.

"I have two other brothers to take care of our family and I feel very proud to get my revenge." The desecration of the Korans, which the United States described as unintentional, triggered widespread protests in which 30 people were killed. Afghan security forces turned their weapons on American soldiers.

Two senior US officers were shot dead at their desks in the heart of the Interior Ministry by what Afghan security officials said was a police intelligence officer, stunning NATO and the Kabul government.

The incident also raised the possibility that Afghanistan could see more suicide bombings -- one of the Taliban's most effective weapons -- by those who have concluded that is the only way justice can be served.

"I couldn't do any harm to the Americans by protesting and throwing stones," said Matihullah. "I want to put on the suicide vest and blow them apart." Suicide bombings have become more widespread across the country in recent months, with assailants taking to innovative tactics such as concealing bombs in turbans and using children.

US President Barack Obama apologized for the burnings of the Koran at Bagram air base. But the anger has not subsided. ...More here.