Fort Hood rampage evokes fear, worry in US Muslims

San Anthonio, Nov 6: The Fort Hood rampage unleashed by Army psychiatrist identified as Major Nidal Malik Hasan has sent shivers down the spine of the Muslims in America.

Even before the name of the alleged shooter hit the media, the community was praying that 'no Muslim would be involved', Ibrahim Hooper, who handles communications for Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) told CNN.

Although there was no confirmation that the shooter was actually a Muslim, the possibility that he could be one prompted the organisation to release a statement immediately.

"No political or religious ideology could ever justify or excuse such wanton and indiscriminate violence. The attack was particularly heinous in that it targeted the all-volunteer Army that protects our nation. American Muslims stand with our fellow citizens in offering both prayers for the victims and sincere condolences to the families of those killed or injured," CAIR statement reads.

The CNN report also quotes the statement released by LA-based Muslim Public Affairs Council, which said, "We are in contact with law enforcement and U.S. federal government officials to gain more facts from this tragic incident and work together in dealing with its aftermath."

This statement also advises the Muslims to be in contact with local law enforcement for the safety and security of their communities and their institutions.

Islamic Information Center also issued a statement condemning the attack and emphasising that this attack and its perpetrator are in no way representative of the Muslim people or the peace-loving religion of Islam, the report said.

While the Americans faced trauma after the 9/11 terror attacks, the Muslims in the country have had to fight an additional battle of vengeance and discrimination launched against them by the non-Muslims.

OneIndia News