Internet, talk radio blamed for 'anti-Muslim violence'

A leading U.S. Islamic lobby group blames a purported rise in anti-Muslim harassment, violence and discriminatory treatment on the Internet and talk radio.

In its annual report, the Council on American-Islamic Relations claims anti-Muslim incidents leaped 30 percent in 2005 from the previous year.

National spokesman Ibrahim Hooper told reporters the difference is due to "a rise in anti-Muslim rhetoric fed by the Internet and also on talk radio."

"You can't turn on the radio without hearing negative, bigoted comments about Islam," Hooper said.

Nice try Mr Hooper but I'm not buying. This is nothing more than a diversionary tactic designed to deflect legitimate criticism of Muslims. Mr Hooper would be better served examining that giant plank in his eye. That Plank made up of extremist elements that have hijacked Islam. Those zealots are shaping public opinion.