Salafist patrol sparks new debate on Islam in Germany

German Islamist extremists cross over the line by having a “Salafist patrol” like the Mutaween in Saudi Arabia or the Pasdaran in Iran (less active now):

The “PR gag by a group of young hooligans” has blurred the “clear definition between extremism and religion,” warned Aiman Mazyek, the head of the Central Council of Muslims in Germany ZMD. The activists are doing all Muslims in Germany a disservice, he said, adding that many young extremists had long bowed out of Muslim society.

“They say, this is a mollycoddled Islam, we want to go the hard way,” Mazyek said – and suggested fighting Islamism with Islam.

Strengthen the mainstream and support Muslim organizations, he urged. “Unfortunately, the current political climate doesn’t indicate that that has been understood,” the ZMDs Secretary General told DW. “Instead, were being marginalized, which in turn strengthens the radical fringes.”

On September 19, Muslims across Germany have the opportunity to demonstrate for peace and against extremism. Under the motto “Muslims stand up against hatred and injustice”, the four leading German Islam organizations are calling for solemn vigils and peace demonstrations in seven German cities.

Salafist patrol sparks new debate on Islam in Germany | Germany | DW.DE | 10.09.2014.