Local Muslims react to Paris terrorist attack

Wednesday’s attack in Paris against Charlie Hebdo magazine left 12 dead and 11 wounded.

The terrorists are alleged to be Islamic extremists.

The attack has not only created an outcry against terrorist attacks
but support for freedom of the press as well.

These alleged Islamic extremists attacked a magazine that created satirical cartoons.

Many of the cartoons poked fun at religious and political topics.

So where is the line drawn between freedom of speech and being sensitive to religions in this case Islam.

“Who did this Jimmy? It’s Muslim terrorists,” said Bill Maher, stand-up comedian and political commentator.

Maher was a recent guest on “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”

Maher said this about Muslim terrorists.

“This happens way too frequently. It’s like Ground Hog Day except the ground hog kept getting his head cut off,” said Maher.

Maher went on to say many Muslims support the terrorist ideology.

“I know most people wouldn’t of carried out an attack like this but here is the important point: Hundreds of millions support an attack like this,” said Maher.

“We condemn this terrorist activity that happened in Paris,” said Sabri Agachan, a practicing Muslim who is director of the Raindrop Turkish house.

He also works with the Dialogue Institute of the Southwest.

The organization promotes mutual understanding, respect and cooperation among people of diverse faiths and cultures.

Agachan says the local Muslim community is heartbroken for the families of the victims.

“There is no permission at all for a Muslim to react extremely or to use violence,” said Agachan.

Maher takes a stand on Muslims condemning the acts of violence.

“What they say is,’Oh we don’t approve of violence but when you make fun of the prophet all bets are off’,” said Maher.

Agachan says even if a magazine like Charlie Hebdoe mocks the Prophet Mohammed it does not call for radical action by anyone.

“All media groups should be able to express their feelings as they wish, that’s it,” said Agachan.

Agachan tells ABC-7 there is only one way to counter radical Islamists:

“To be able to stop these terrorist activities to educate those ignorant people to educate Muslim people(and) to educate our own families,” said Agachan.

Agachan wants to remind everyone Islam means peace and Muslim means the ones who practice peace

Agachan goes on to say any form of violence contradicts the principles of the Quran.