The In T View: Marshmallow, Happy Nuptials to an Iraqi Christian

Worse than under Saddam, that would describe the plight of the majority of Iraq's Christians in the post-Saddam era, victims of Islamic fundamentalism, sectarian violence, and lack of security. Today, the Christians of Iraq which once numbered 1.3 million in Twentieth century are down to an estimated 500 - 600 thousand, with only 100,000 said to be left in Baghdad.

Inhabiting this milieu, this stage of Iraqi history, we have today's In T View guest, Marshmallow of the Iraqi Roses blog, a proud Twenty-something Chaldean Christian woman, one of the indigenous peoples of Iraq, who trace their lineage back to the 9th century BC. Marshmallow, who loves the music of Avril Lavigne is getting married this month to her fiancé, so we offer our congratulations to this quirky, outspoken, and intriguing Iraqi, whose writings stand out in the crowded Iraqi blogosphere.

We thank Marshmallow for taking time out from her busy schedule to participate in the In T View.

Mister Ghost: Which Celebrity or Famous Person has the Sexiest Lips, that you would like to be kissed by?

Marshmallow: My fiancé.

Mister Ghost: Marshmallow, don't hold anything back, we want to know, what do you really think of President George Bush?

Marshmallow: A Texan guy who follow his mind not heart!



Mister Ghost: Did the Americans lie to you and the Iraqi people? Did they fail to keep the promises they made after they invaded your country?

Marshmallow: Americans have nothing to do with us but the American policy towards other countries and some faked reports by the CIA put Americans in the frame of lie. Bush Administration failed to keep the promises.



Mister Ghost: Let's play Before and After. Before the War, I want you tell me if things were better or worse in the following subjects...

Marshmallow:

- Electricity
It was better before

- Security
It was better before

- Crime
Low levels

- Prices
Between Normal and high

- Salaries
Very bad

-Religious Freedom (ability to practice your faith safely)
There was freedom before.

- Freedom of Speech
Restricted

-Entertainment and the Arts
Acceptable

-Traveling outside of Iraq
Very limited.





Mister Ghost: Marshmallow, what does Love mean to you?

Marshmallow: Hard question, LOL… Love is a unique language, it doesn't demand professional linguistics to understand, it is a gift from God to every one no matter who they are!
If you know how to use it, you will be up on the clouds but if not then it will dump you under the ground…
To me, it means to love the person who is the only one who will make me happy.
If I love someone for his hot looking that won't be a true love, but if I love him although his shortcomings then that is the real love!

Mister Ghost: And you are marrying your fiancé sometime this year in an upcoming wedding, tell us about it?

Marshmallow: Well, I am excited for this upcoming event…these are my best days because I am living every moment left of my bachelor life knowing that beyond these steps will be my new chapter of life but this time won't be me alone, my partner and my better half will share all good and bad with me, so am I…

Mister Ghost: Marshmallow, what is it about Avril Lavigne and her music that wets your whistle, gives flights of fancy to your soul, and makes you feel all good inside?

Marshmallow: Hmm Avril…first time I saw Avril on TV was in 2003 right after the war, well I was captivated by her motivated soul, by her voice and by her energy…Her songs were the extra magic agent to be added to her personality…to me she looked bread-and-butter singer which she reminded me of my self, although I was 22 at that time but I felt like I was 17… she is spoiled, so am I…she looks mean but she is good so do I, except for cursing hahah she curses a lot but am not!
The way of her eye make-up drive me nuts cuz she tries to outshoot the blue eyes which I adore, not her eyes but I love blue eyes…

Mister Ghost: What was the name of your favorite doll growing up and why did you like it so much?

Marshmallow: Barbie, she is so fancy and the reason why I liked her because I used to get her attachments besides the doll itself, and that what makes me seeks for more Barbie versions.




Mister Ghost: At one time in the Twentieth Century, Jews comprised one-third of Baghdad's population, now there are only 5 or 6 of them left in Baghdad. With the population of Christians in Baghdad down to around 100,000, are the Iraqi Christians following the same path
as Iraq's Jews?

Marshmallow: It will not happen, Iraq is for all and Iraqi Christians will stay in Iraq because its their homeland.


Mister Ghost: Is there a future in Iraq for anyone who is not a Muslim?

Marshmallow: Hopefully.


Mister Ghost: Is living in Iraq, like living in a big prison?

Marshmallow: Between 1980 - 2006 yes but not now.




Mister Ghost: How important is Jesus in your life?

Marshmallow: Oh Jesus is my life, he is my savior. Without him I am nothing at all…



Mister Ghost: Should women be allowed to become Priests? What about married men?

Marshmallow: Well in America and other countries there are such as Joyce Mayer and Noora Adwar from Egypt, they are preachers but not priests…
Yes, married men can study divinity and devote their services to God, and take care of their wives and children simultaneously. There is nothing wrong with it.



Mister Ghost: Is there a Satan or the Devil? And what of Evil Spirits, do they exist in the world?

Marshmallow: Yes, The name Lucifer has often been understood to be another name for the devil or the Satan. , it was an angel as it is mentioned in Isaiah 14:12-17:
How you are fallen from heaven, O Day Star, son of Dawn! How you are cut down to the ground, you who laid the nations low! 13 You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high; I will sit on the mount of assembly in the far north; 14 I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will make myself like the Most High.’ 15 But you are brought down to Sheol, to the depths of the Pit. 16 Those who see you will stare at you, and ponder over you: ‘Is this the man who made the earth tremble, who shook kingdoms, 17 who made the world like a desert and overthrew its cities, who did not let his prisoners go home?’

Yes, they do exist. When Jesus was to be taken away he said the prince of this world comes. This world is Satan's playground and many oblige him. Jesus said my Kingdom is not of this world.




Mister Ghost: Can a single, unmarried woman in Iraq live by herself or with roommates, away from her family? And why not?

Marshmallow: No, she can not because that is illogical and against the Eastern traditional. Briefly; it is shame.

Mister Ghost: Are Iraqi men lazy, forcing Iraqi women do most of the household chores, shopping, taking care of the children, and preparing meals, while they are out visiting male friends, eating, napping, and watching television?

Marshmallow: Ahem, ahem, hahah…not all of them.
Iraqi men are not lazy they work outside the house and can not find the time to do other chores…Well most of them don't even know how to boil an egg because these are women jobs, shopping? They do shopping unless the markets are too close to the house, the wife can take care of it. Who would take care of children better than moms?



Mister Ghost: Marshmallow, it seems that many women who marry in Iraq, don't have much of a clue about their future husbands. Marriages are arranged, or women are in a rush to get married at a young age, because of the lack of available men, or there's just an acceptance of qisma wa naseeb -- fate and destiny -- by Iraqi women.

Since, you are an engaged-to-be-married Iraqi woman, I must ask you: How well do you know your fiancee? Does he have a good personality? Do your Fiance and you have similar dreams and aspirations? Are you two, compatible in the art of amour (physical love)?

Marshmallow: OK here is the point, not only in Iraq but most of the Middle Eastern countries have almost the same traditions when it comes to marriage, some of them are getting way to opened regarding this subject like Lebanon and Turkey…

It is against the law and religion for man and woman to live together out of marriage frame, it is adultery. They can go out for shopping or parties but at least one of each families member should accompanied them while they are engaged.

Kisses and hugs are allowed…

For myself, my marriage is not arranged at all, my family and fiancé's family known each other before we are born, we used to visit each others, go out on picnics and so on, so you can tell that we have that long - aged intimacy my fiancé and I…he matches me very well so do I…we have lots of thing and thoughts in common and our dreams are almost the same. You can say the chemistry between us is on high level.

He is a man of is word and the most important thing his love is real and his feelings are obvious to every one.

For those who get married at young age or under, that is because of the environment that they live in, their families and societies…some girls afraid to become spinsters so they marry at early ages unconcern of how old he is? What does he do? What his thoughts and goals are in case if he has some!!





Mister Ghost: It appears that there is a double standard in Iraqi society for unmarried men and women. Unmarried women are suppose to be pure, chaste, and remain virgins until their marriage, whereas Iraqi men can sow a few of their wild oats and consort with shady ladies of the night like prostitutes. Is this double standard fair to you Iraqi women? And what exactly do Iraqi men really learn about physical intimacy from having sex with prostitutes?

Marshmallow: Yea, I hate this discrimination. Why women should always be pure , virgin and loyal to whom, they will marry while their males were allowed to play around calling it "youth impetuosity"?? they play with other girls feelings and have fun until it is the time to settle down, they look for the most high-class and educated woman to marry? It is unfair.


Mister Ghost: It seems from what I've read, including Sana Al Kayyat's groundbreaking book, Honour & Shame: Women In Modern Iraq, that Iraqi men are some of the worst lovers on the planet, with little to no knowledge of how to please a woman in bed. In your opinion, what do Iraqi men have to do to become better lovers?

Marshmallow: I HAVEN'T EXPERIENCED THAT YET IN BED…HAHA



Mister Ghost: Marshmallow, if you could be like the great Timelord Doctor Who, and go back in time, would you choose to return to an earlier period in your life and visit your late mother?

Marshmallow: Oh yes, I would love to visit my mom when she first was diagnosed with cancer at least I would be able to be close to her than before and more mature to share things that happened with me lately with her.


Mister Ghost: What is the sweetest memory you have of your mother?

Marshmallow: I am catching my tears now Mr. Ghost…

My sweetest memory when she surprised me with a bike after I scored the highest marks in my class, she hugged me and I hugged her, we kept jumping and dancing for a while.


Mister Ghost: Marshmallow, will the libertine nature of American society change you? When you move to the US with your fiance, will you start to sunbathe topless in your backyard, drink rum and cokes before dinner, and run off with your Hispanic gardener, Manuel?





Marshmallow: Hahah that was hilarious…
No, I would never ever change my ethics and morals that I was raised on by my parents, I will not skin - dipping in my backyard…I don't drink rum not even water before dinner…What makes you think that my gardener will be Hispanic, why not Iraqi for example? LOL…


Mister Ghost: Thanks very much for a nice In T View Marshmallow, and final question, have you ever seen a ghost eating an ice cream cone?

Marshmallow: Yea, I have seen that in cartoons.


Avril Lavigne Images courtesy of:

Flickr.com

http://www.absolutepictures.com/

http://www.avrillavigne-pics.com

http://mog.com/pictures/artists/0000/0000/1288/pictures/75686.jpg

The In T View: Iraqi Translator, An Interpreter At War

Leopard 02 by pbradyart.

In this In T View, we meet the Iraqi Translator, a twenty-something Iraqi male studying computer science, but more widely known for his role as an Interpreter serving with the Coalition forces and Iraqi Army, and blogging about it at Iraqi Translator's Life.

The Iraqi Translator was against the US invasion of Iraq, but believes the Americans should remain in Iraq until the job is finished, and while, he's angry over the events of Abu Gharib, Haditha, and Ramadi, he doesn't blame the American people...

MG: Hello Iraqi Translator, welcome to the In T View. What's your favorite flavor of Ice Cream?

Iraqi Translator: Hey Mister Ghost(lol), how do you know I like ice cream!!! To put this question in the beginning, you surprised me. Honestly, I Fall in love with strawberry ice cream.


MG: Tell me something about you, that you are really good at?

Iraqi Translator: I'm really good about anything related with Internet and computers.


MG: Why did you become a translator with the Coalition and Iraqi forces?

Iraqi Translator: I have faced a lot of obstacles during my studying, I remembered one day I hadn't pocket money to go college, in addition, when I went to and met my friend over (there), I saw them jobless and everyone looking for any way to get immigration or asylum to any country. When I (came) back from Syria, I was trying to find any job that help me continuing my study, but I failed.

At the same time, I've seen my relatives and my friends working in companies even when they have less qualification than me, and the reason was public relationships. One day, during (I) went home from my college, someone gave me a newspaper called "Baghdad Now" and I saw (an) advertisement about this work. At that time I had decided to join (the) more than 10,000 members and work with them as a translator.


MG: What has been the most dangerous part of your job so far?

Iraqi Translator: In my case, if someone recognize me, that will be the most dangerous part, actually that means the game is over. I don't care about IED's (Improvised Explosive Devices) and EFB (magic IED made in Iran) or VBIED(Vehicle Bomb Improvised Explosive Devices) or clashes here and there, as (I) care about someone see me.

Smoke Art by M.Makri.

MG: And how close have you come to death?

Iraqi Translator: I think I'm (I mean the interpreter) the closest one to the death, even more close than American soldier, he has weapon and I'm not, he is close to the death, just when he goes (on) mission, but I'm close to the death, even when I go home.


MG: You've indicated at your blog, Iraqi Translator's Life, that the Americans don't trust you, "Spies in American view," you say. Can you give us some examples of how this lack of trust makes itself known?

Iraqi Translator: After the famous explosion that happened in Mosul by a translator, the Americans changed the treating way with translators. The new rules set: No cell phone, No PX/Bx sometimes, and escort required in the most of bases. The funny thing, when he asked you to take off your shoes!!!! in some bases, and all these rules don't happen with the Indian or Fiji persons. But sometimes I give them the excuses to do that, if Iraqis have no dignity inside his country and with his government, how can Americans respect him and treat him with respect.


MG: And you mention that your fellow Iraqis, see you as a "traitor." Can you highlight some of their reactions to you?

Iraqi Translator: Let me (be) honest with you and tell you the biggest reaction against us: What do you say when you see this sentence written by paints (graffiti) on the walls of neighborhoods: "Killing to agents...Killing to traitors" That the clearest thing you can see it directly by your eyes.


MG: What was your life like before the war? A happy life, a sad life, a life lacking in freedom and opportunities?

Iraqi Translator: A life lacking in freedom and opportunities.


MG: You lived through 13 difficult years of UN sanctions against Iraq. Did you find that during this time frame, Iraqi culture changed?

Iraqi Translator: Certainly, the Iraqi culture changed during that time, but Saddam has not allowed any one to show up that changing, but that happened after 2003, and all people around the world has seen that changing by robbing and destroying and burning and killing operations.


MG: For instance, in the book, Voices Of Resistance: Muslim Women On War, Faith & Sexuality, Ms. Nermin Al-Mufti says this about the period of Iraqi sanctions: ...the most important thing we have lost is our value scale. Our values are now upside down. During the sanctions many people got involved with smuggling and other illegal and immoral activities in order to make money, and through such activities have accumulated some measure of wealth. Such illegal activities are so commonplace now that they are affecting the dominant moral values of our society. Did the sanctions drive the Iraqis into becoming a less moral and ethical people?

Iraqi Translator: I agree with her. The accumulations between 1991 and 2003 are enough to drive the Iraqis into becoming a less moral and ethical people.

Flores. by Net1986.

MG: Did the US have the right to invade and occupy Iraq?

Iraqi Translator: Nobody has the right to displace a family from their house whatever the justifications, take that example as an answer among countries. Of course, U.S. had no right to do that.


MG: In your opinion, after the events of the last five years, was the war justified?

Iraqi Translator: Hell no.


MG: In the last sixty years or so, your fellow Iraqis have basically run out (chased away) the Jews, Assyrians, Chaldeans, Armenians, Greeks, Sabaeans/Mandaeans, etc... Are the Iraqis an intolerant people?

Iraqi Translator: After 2003, Yes , they are.


MG: We're frequently told by the Iraqi bloggers that Iraqis are a secular group of people, but the last election seemed to showcase an Iraq, where the Shia voted for Shia candidates, the Sunni for Sunnis, and the Kurds for the Kurdish parties. So, are the Iraqis really truly a secular people?

Iraqi Translator: Yes, they were a secular people but nowadays, I don't think so, especially the Iraqi people inside Iraq.


MG: Among all the Politicians and alleged Leaders in Iraq, who is the biggest thief and liar, and why?

Iraqi Translator: Strange question!!! , I think all of them are angels!!!!!!!!!!! (lol)


MG: Let's talk about the Green Zone, a place you seem to have some familiarity with. There have been rumors of a legendary brothel or brothels in the Green Zone? Have you heard anything about this and are the rumors true?

Iraqi Translator: Actually, there are no rumors at all !!! because that is the truth, a lot of brothels in the GZ, from all nationalities, just let me know sir: what is your favorite flavour of .........? and I'll try hard to get your order, even if your request (is) outside Green Zone!!!(they said that, not me).

Koi by See El Photo.

MG: So, what does the future hold for you? Will you stay in Iraq or will you seek a Visa to come to the United States as suggested by Neurotic Iraqi Wife?

Iraqi Translator: It's not easy to go to States, I need one of these things to go to states as Department Of State said (1000000$, American spouse, (Neorotica help) General signature (lol)). I think as Neorotica said in her blog, we need a lot of persons like Col. M, and unfortunately you cannot find easily person like Col. M.

Of course, if there is a chance to go to states, I'll never lose it but when I've been starting this work, I put 2 plans to end this story except the VISA issue, when any of these plans happen, I'll retire!!! from this job and I'll publish my civilian blog without any worry from emails get to my inbox and trying to fall me in the trap.

Finally I'd like to say: thanks to you and to my Godmother Neorotica for her help and support.

We thank the Iraqi Translator for a nice In T View.

The In T View: Rotten Gods: Burning A Quran In Iran

Angel by Marc Quinn

Intriguing tiny praying skeleton in Winchester Cathedral,
Winchester, UK. Taken from a cast of a 22-week old
foetus skeleton, cast in bronze, then painted white.

Iranian dissenter(s) and rights activist(s) Rotten Gods of FireonQuran.com is/are the bravest of the brave. When you think of a nation that has a dissident(s) burning Qurans to protest against Islamic supremacism, Sharia law, and religiously-inspired totalitarianism, to tell you the truth, a Muslim country like Iran is not the first place that comes to mind.

It is easy for those in the West, especially in the United States, with its rights of freedom and press, and separation of church and state, to engage in acts of dissent and protest, because the penalty is limited for civil disobedience. Yes, perhaps the person may lose their job, spend a night in jail, or be forced by their parents to clean the basement, but for Rotten Gods, the price is much higher.

Discovery by the Iranian regime likely means a charge of blasphemy and death, perhaps even swinging in the polluted Tehran breeze from that dark, foreboding crane, we've all grown accustomed to seeing...

Photo Hanging in the still breeze,
Tehran, Iran - Courtesy of Difficult Images

MG: Hello Rotten Gods, Welcome to the In T View.

Rotten Gods: Hello MG, Thanks for having me.


MG: The Quran is considered by Muslims to be the sacred and immutable words of Allah. To light it on fire is viewed by Muslims as a horrendous act of blasphemy. Why have you done it?

Rotten Gods: My country, "Islamic Republic of Iran" (official name) is a well-known fundamental Islamic country and it's 29 years old, started right after revolution in 1979. Here Islamic rules are the main focus of everything, I mean everything will be measured with Islamic rules and teachings! Now let's take a look at stats, 180+ executions in 2006, 317+ in 2007, and 23 executions just in the first ten days of 2008. We don't have stats of torture cases, in fact there is no need for stats, because torture is part of police and prison system in Iran. It's undeniable.

Victim hung after being whipped - July 2007
execution - Courtesy of Holy Crime.com

Simply I have to say, if word of Allah permit such actions on supposedly his own creatures then I have to burn Allah personally which I have started with his words. I had four reasons when I started my protest against Islamic dictatorship of Iran which are:

1. Abusing Human Rights,

2. Executions,

3. Lack of freedom in society, specially for dissidents and imprisoning any of them,

4. Widespread injustice in society and specially in Judiciary system.

If setting Quran on fire is a horrendous act of blasphemy in Muslims' viewpoint, I would challenge every Muslim to answer me; what would they call their Muslim-leaders-on-going-inhuman actions towards people?


MG: Is the Quran a sacred and holy book or is it just a book, similar to all books written by the hand of man?

Copy of Burnt Quran at Sadriyah market in Baghdad
after a car bomb attack that killed at least 127 people
and injured 148 in April of 2007 - Courtesy AP

Rotten Gods: Yes, I believe so it's just a book like every other book. I have not seen that any holy thing come out of it while I was burning them.


MG: What has been the reaction inside Iran, and worldwide to your website?

Rotten Gods: I had lots of threats and hate messages towards myself and my family in day one that I announced it in Iranian blogosphere community. In exact same day, they censored this blog in Iran so people couldn't read my blog anymore. Due to my blog filtering, I don't have enough response from Iranian communities in Iran. You wouldn't believe if I tell you that most hate messages came to me from Muslims in England, Australia, Canada, USA, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Emirates!

It seems that Muslims in western countries tend to be more fundamental than Muslims in other countries! I am not sure yet.

Also many people have supported me with their warm messages and I am very thankful.


MG: You believe religious disobedience is the key to saving the Iranian people from ruling class of Mullahs. Can you tell us why?

Rotten Gods: Islam is a political way of life. It is a strict socioeconomic structure which enforce rules rigorously on masses including non-Muslims and non-believers. It leaves no way out of this religion and no right for people. Islam means submission or total surrender and every Muslim should surround oneself to God, so he will be a follower and there is no room to argue against its rules and instructions. And any argument against it has harsh capital punishments. Islam should separate from politics. Or simply it is better to put this way into words, Islam is totalitarian form of politics and in order to achieve to open society, Iranians should fight back with current religious dictatorship regime. So Muslims should compromise a little more during this fight although they are free to hold on to Islam while it doesn't hurt anybody.

MG: Are you under any illusions as to what will will happen to you, if the Iranian regime discovers your identity? Will they accuse you of blasphemy and hang you from that giant crane?

Swan by Christina Qualiana

Rotten Gods: I wish. I mean I wish Iran was a democratic country and I was free to express my opinion without fear of terror, sudden death, or death penalty in public. In blasphemy cases, sharia law strictly orders to hang, behead, or throw convicted from height e.g. mountain.


MG: Rotten Gods, can you tell us about the significance of your name? Why did you chose this name? Are all Gods rotten or do you agree with someone like Robert Spencer that certain religions are more tolerant than others?

Rotten Gods: I guess it would be better that your readers tell us about significance of this name on the protest, what do you think?

I should mention that I borrowed this name from someone I know. This name is much relevant to my beliefs. I don't know Robert Spencer and I am not familiar with his belief but there is no doubt that there are some religions which are very much tolerant than others. I should mention that I am not religious.


MG: Is there a God?

Behold - Mount Carmel Cemetery, Hillside, Illinois

Rotten Gods: I don't think so.


MG: Frequently, Muslims will say that Islam is a Religion of Peace? Is this really so?

Rotten Gods: No, not at all. I have seen hanging scenes in city while poor men/women were going to die, others hailed "Allah is great". There is no peace in Islam. If truly Islam was religion of peace, we couldn't see the terrorist attacks between very own Muslims.

MG: You are critical of the so-called "Moderate Muslims." Can you tell us why?

Rotten Gods: Moderate Muslims supposed to be critical of situations within Islam and Islamic societies while abusing human rights, injustice judiciary system, imprisoning dissidents in Iran (and all other Islamic states) are well-known problems, and especially executions in Iran. Not only they don't criticize these behaviors in Islamic, but many times they have supported them and consider these incidents as an internal affair of state, so the slogan has been "we should not interfere". On the other hand, these groups were so sharp to attack my protest, because I set fire on Quran, because they believe in the Quran.

It simply means they don't really believe in human rights as much as they believe in Quran. Many incident has happened in Islamic states and this brand, I mean moderate Muslims, if you will, has proved that is not functional.

And it can't be, because for a Moderate Muslim we need a moderate Islam and moderate education. Nobody can advocate for Moderate Muslim ideology while there is no moderate Islam at the first place. So these brand shouldn't call themselves Moderate Muslim while they don't have appropriate tools and moves. They have to develop a Moderate Islam which includes Quran, hadiths and many other Islamic teachings. Then, hopefully next generations can call themselves moderate Muslim, then we can drop "moderate" and it would be an Islam without barbaric teachings.

MG: Should Iran be allowed to develop Nuclear Weapons?

Lost Horizon

Rotten Gods: Not at all, except if there is a suicide plan.


MG: Will there be a regime change in Iran?

Rotten Gods: For sure it will. The problem is timing.


MG: Would you favor an American intervention in Iran?

Rotten Gods: I prefer diplomacy and simply if any one of world powers doesn't support Islamic regime of Iran, there won't be any intervention but if diplomacy doesn't work, I need to know pre-analysis of intervention before reply to your question.

If there would be some strategic analysis of Islamic regime of Iran's behavior then we will exactly know, how to deal with them, where to begin, and where to stop.


MG: Good Cop, Bad Cop, Iranian Style: We know that former Iranian president Mohammad Khatami is frequently portrayed as a moderate and a reformer, and the man that replaced him, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is an unabashed hardliner, but is this an example of the Persian version of good cop, bad cop with both men being part of the same system?

Dragon Ying-Yang

Rotten Gods: Exactly. Although I can't call Khatami, Good Cop. Just he doesn't say same things that Ahmadinejad have been saying doesn't make him any better. As you mentioned, both of them are part of the same system, the whole notion of Reformist party which Khatami has been part of it, in front of Conservative party, is just a puppet show for masses and all of them are part of the same system. The system suggests that we do have democracy in Iran because we can choose between these two opponent (!) parties and vote for whom we want but I call it Totalitarian Islamic Democracy.

For example, secret nuclear enrichment doesn't belong only to Ahmadinejad era, it has been going on in Iran for almost 20 years. Just figure it out how many presidents and PMs were informed.


MG: What is worse, the repression of the dictator or the repression of the Islamists?

Rotten Gods: Both because they use all means and resources to do what they want.

MG: So, where do you go from here?

Rotten Gods: Continuing this protest to pass the message to as many as people that we can.

MG: If people want to get involved with your effort, how can they support you?

Rotten Gods: Regardless of which country you are, you should speak up to clean the world from this religious superstition. If you want to, set the Quran on fire, and send us your video. Also link to www.fireonquran.com

Thanks MG for this interview.


Thanks to Rotten Gods for the In T View.

The In T View: Rotten Gods: Burning A Quran In Iran

Angel by Marc Quinn

Intriguing tiny praying skeleton in Winchester Cathedral,
Winchester, UK. Taken from a cast of a 22-week old
foetus skeleton, cast in bronze, then painted white.

Iranian dissenter(s) and rights activist(s) Rotten Gods of FireonQuran.com is/are the bravest of the brave. When you think of a nation that has a dissident(s) burning Qurans to protest against Islamic supremacism, Sharia law, and religiously-inspired totalitarianism, to tell you the truth, a Muslim country like Iran is not the first place that comes to mind.

It is easy for those in the West, especially in the United States, with its rights of freedom and press, and separation of church and state, to engage in acts of dissent and protest, because the penalty is limited
for civil disobedience. Yes, perhaps the person may lose thir job, spend a night in jail, or be forced by their parents to clean the basement, but for Rotten Gods, the price is much higher.

Discovery by the Iranian regime likely means a charge of blasphemy and death, perhaps even swinging in the polluted Tehran breeze from that dark, foreboding crane, we've all grown accustomed to seeing...

Photo Hanging in the still breeze,
Tehran, Iran - Courtesy of Difficult Images

MG: Hello Rotten Gods, Welcome to the In T View.

Rotten Gods: Hello MG, Thanks for having me.


MG: The Quran is considered by Muslims to be the sacred and immutable words of Allah. To light it on fire is viewed by Muslims as a horrendous act of blasphemy. Why have you done it?

Rotten Gods: My country, "Islamic Republic of Iran" (official name) is a well-known fundamental Islamic country and it's 29 years old, started right after revolution in 1979. Here Islamic rules are the main focus of everything, I mean everything will be measured with Islamic rules and teachings! Now let's take a look at stats, 180+ executions in 2006, 317+ in 2007, and 23 executions just in the first ten days of 2008. We don't have stats of torture cases, in fact there is no need for stats, because torture is part of police and prison system in Iran. It's undeniable.

Victim hung after being whipped - July 2007
execution - Courtesy of Holy Crime.com

Simply I have to say, if word of Allah permit such actions on supposedly his own creatures then I have to burn Allah personally which I have started with his words. I had four reasons when I started my protest against Islamic dictatorship of Iran which are:

1. Abusing Human Rights,

2. Executions,

3. Lack of freedom in society, specially for dissidents and imprisoning any of them,

4. Widespread injustice in society and specially in Judiciary system.

If setting Quran on fire is a horrendous act of blasphemy in Muslims viewpoint, I would challenge every Muslim to answer me; what would they call their Muslim-leaders-on-going-inhuman actions towards people?

If setting Quran on fire is a horrendous act of blasphemy in Muslims' viewpoint, I would challenge every Muslim to answer me; what would they call their Muslim-leaders-on-going-inhuman actions towards people?


MG: Is the Quran a sacred and holy book or is just a book, similar to all books written by the hand of man?

Copy of Burnt Quran at Sadriyah market in Baghdad
after a car bomb attack that killed at least 127 people
and injured 148 in April of 2007 - Courtesy AP

Rotten Gods: Yes, I believe so it's just a book like every other book. I have not seen that any holy thing come out of it while I was burning them.


MG: What has been the reaction inside Iran, and worldwide to your website?

Rotten Gods: I had lots of threats and hate messages towards myself and my family in day one that I announced it in Iranian blogosphere community. In exact same day, they censored this blog in Iran so people couldn't read my blog anymore. Due to my blog filtering, I don't have enough response from Iranian communities in Iran. You wouldn't believe if I tell you that most hate messages came to me from Muslims in England, Australia, Canada, USA, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Emirates!

It seems that Muslims in western countries tend to be more fundamental than Muslims in other countries! I am not sure yet.

Also many people have supported me with their warm messages and I am very thankful.


MG: You believe religious disobedience is the key to saving the Iranian people from ruling class of Mullahs. Can you tell us why?

Rotten Gods: Islam is a political way of life. It is a strict socioeconomic structure which enforce rules rigorously on masses including non-Muslims and non-believers. It leaves no way out of this religion and no right for people. Islam means submission or total surrender and every Muslim should surround oneself to God, so he will be a follower and there is no room to argue against its rules and instructions. And any argument against it has harsh capital punishments. Islam should separate from politics. Or simply it is better to put this way into words, Islam is totalitarian form of politics and in order to achieve to open society, Iranians should fight back with current religious dictatorship regime. So Muslims should compromise a little more during this fight although they are free to hold on to Islam while it doesn't hurt anybody.

MG: Are you under any illusions as to what will will happen to you, if the Iranian regime discovers your identity? Will they accuse you of blasphemy and hang you from that giant crane?

Swan by Christina Qualiana

Rotten Gods: I wish. I mean I wish Iran was a democratic country and I was free to express my opinion without fear of terror, sudden death, or death penalty in public. In blasphemy cases, sharia law strictly orders to hang, behead, or throw convicted from height e.g. mountain.


MG: Rotten Gods, can you tell us about the significance of your name? Why did you chose this name? Are all Gods rotten or do you agree with someone like Robert Spencer that certain religions are more tolerant than others?

Rotten Gods: I guess it would be better that your readers tell us about significance of this name on the protest, what do you think?

I should mention that I borrowed this name from someone I know. This name is much relevant to my beliefs. I don't know Robert Spencer and I am not familiar with his belief but there is no doubt that there are some religions which are very much tolerant than others. I should mention that I am not religious.


MG: Is there a God?

Behold - Mount Carmel Cemetery, Hillside, Illinois

Rotten Gods: I don't think so.


MG: Frequently, Muslims will say that Islam is a Religion of Peace? Is this really so?

Rotten Gods: No, not at all. I have seen hanging scenes in city while poor men/women were going to die, others hailed "Allah is great". There is no peace in Islam. If truly Islam was religion of peace, we couldn't see the terrorist attacks between very own Muslims.

MG: You are critical of the so-called "Moderate Muslims." Can you tell us why?

Rotten Gods: Moderate Muslims supposed to be critical of situations within Islam and Islamic societies while abusing human rights, injustice judiciary system, imprisoning dissidents in Iran (and all other Islamic states) are well-known problems, and especially executions in Iran. Not only they don't criticize these behaviors in Islamic, but many times they have supported them and consider these incidents as an internal affair of state, so the slogan has been "we should not interfere". On the other hand, these groups were so sharp to attack my protest, because I set fire on Quran, because they believe in the Quran.

It simply means they don't really believe in human rights as much as they believe in Quran. Many incident has happened in Islamic states and this brand, I mean moderate Muslims, if you will, has proved that is not functional.

And it can't be, because for a Moderate Muslim we need a moderate Islam and moderate education. Nobody can advocate for Moderate Muslim ideology while there is no moderate Islam at the first place. So these brand shouldn't call themselves Moderate Muslim while they don't have appropriate tools and moves. They have to develop a Moderate Islam which includes Quran, hadiths and many other Islamic teachings. Then, hopefully next generations can call themselves moderate Muslim, then we can drop "moderate" and it would be an Islam without barbaric teachings.

MG: Should Iran be allowed to develop Nuclear Weapons?

Lost Horizon

Rotten Gods: Not at all, except if there is a suicide plan.


MG: Will there be a regime change in Iran?

Rotten Gods: For sure it will. The problem is timing.


MG: Would you favor an American intervention in Iran?

Rotten Gods: I prefer diplomacy and simply if any one of world powers doesn't support Islamic regime of Iran, there won't be any intervention but if diplomacy doesn't work, I need to know pre-analysis of intervention before reply to your question.

If there would be some strategic analysis of Islamic regime of Iran's behavior then we will exactly know, how to deal with them, where to begin, and where to stop.


MG: Good Cop, Bad Cop, Iranian Style: We know that former Iranian president Mohammad Khatami is frequently portrayed as a moderate and a reformer, and the man that replaced him, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is an unabashed hardliner, but is this an example of the Persian version of good cop, bad cop with both men being part of the same system?

Dragon Ying-Yang

Rotten Gods: Exactly. Although I can't call Khatami, Good Cop. Just he doesn't say same things that Ahmadinejad have been saying doesn't make him any better. As you mentioned, both of them are part of the same system, the whole notion of Reformist party which Khatami has been part of it, in front of Conservative party, is just a puppet show for masses and all of them are part of the same system. The system suggests that we do have democracy in Iran because we can choose between these two opponent (!) parties and vote for whom we want but I call it Totalitarian Islamic Democracy.

For example, secret nuclear enrichment doesn't belong only to Ahmadinejad era, it has been going on in Iran for almost 20 years. Just figure it out how many presidents and PMs were informed.


MG: What is worse, the repression of the dictator or the repression of the Islamists?

Rotten Gods: Both because they use all means and resources to do what they want.

MG: So, where do you go from here?

Rotten Gods: Continuing this protest to pass the message to as many as people that we can.

MG: If people want to get involved with your effort, how can they support you?

Rotten Gods: Regardless of which country you are, you should speak up to clean the world from this religious superstition. If you want to, set the Quran on fire, and send us your video. Also link to www.fireonquran.com

Thanks MG for this interview.


Thanks to Rotten Gods for the In T View.

The In T View: Hayder Al-Khoei: I Believe Muqtada al-Sadr Ordered My Father's Murder

The Creation by Michael Parkes

Hayder Al-Khoei (Eye Raki) is not your average Iraqi blogger. As a scion of the powerful and prestigious Al-Khoei family, he stands out as one of the great hopes for Iraq and one of the few Iraqi bloggers who can truly make a difference.

MG: Hayder Al-Khoei welcome to The In T View. As Neil once said on The Young Ones, "Boom Shanka: May the seed of your loin be fruitful in the belly of your woman."

First question, What's your favorite flavor of ice cream and where can you find a decent ice cream cone in Najaf?

Hayder Al-Khoei: I don't eat ice cream because we don't get much sun in London and I doubt you can find a decent cone in Najaf.

MG: Second question, Will there ever be a Doctor Who convention in Najaf?

Hayder Al-Khoei: Yes, after a beauty pageant is held in the Vatican.

MG: Well Hayder, I think it's safe to say, you are not the average Iraqi blogger. Although it's difficult to define exactly, whom the average Iraqi blogger is, generally the average Iraqi blogger does not have profiles of their father and grandfather in Wikipedia.

Being the son of Sayyid Abdul Majid Al-Khoei and the grandson of Grand Ayatollah Abdul-Qasim Al-Khoei, has there been pressure on you to follow in the footsteps of your family members? Why aren't you in Qom right now gaining your Ayatollahness?

Hayder Al-Khoei: There has always been more pressure from outside my family than in. My father always taught me to think for myself and make my own decisions.

His father like-wise never pressured his own sons to become clerics,and he was the marja'. I still haven't decided what to do after I finish my Politics degree here in the UK, but if I do study in the 'hawza' its not going to be in Qum.

MG: Your grandfather passed away in Iraq in 1992, while under a Saddam-imposed house arrest; your Uncle, Sayyed Mohamed Taghi Al Khoei died in a mysterious car accident in Iraq in 1994; and your father was assassinated in Najaf on April 10 2003... and here you are away from your home in London, back in Najaf. Do you ever say to yourself, "Hayder, what the hell are you doing here?" Why exactly have you returned to Najaf and is it a dangerous place for you?

Camel Spider, Najaf Area, C/O of bound4glory1884.

Hayder Al-Khoei: Najaf was and will always remain my real home. London is my home away from home. So no I've never felt out of place in Najaf. I personally don't think Najaf is a dangerous place for me. I travel without protection around the city. When we get stopped at police checkpoints, some Taxi drivers who would find out my identity would refuse to take the fare or invite me to their homes. I never once felt I was in danger.

MG: Who do you believe murdered your father and why do you think he was killed?

Hayder's father, Sayyid Abdul Majid Al-Khoei

Hayder Al-Khoei: I believe it was Moqtada al-Sadr who ordered the murder. My grandfather did not accept Moqtada's father as a Grand Ayatollah and was attacked (verbally) many times by the senior al-Sadr and his followers. Ever since my father left Iraq he was seen as a traitor by them who left the Iraqis to suffer while living a life of luxury in London. My father was older and had more religious credentials than Moqtada and was a natural rival.

The theory that my father was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, i.e., he simply got in the way of the real target, Hayder al-Rufai'i, is nonsense because the first thing members of Moqtada's office did was look for my father. It was a perfect opportunity to take out two of Sadr's enemies with one stone.

MG: In 2004, there was an arrest warrant issued by Judge Raed Juhi against Muqtada al-Sadr and his followers in the death of your father, but it was never enforced. As to why the warrant was never served, some say it was buried by the CPA (Coalition Provisional Authority), but others claim the Iraqi Government under Prime Minister Ibrahim al Jaafari squelched the warrant, because he needed the support of Muqtada al-Sadr to become Prime Minister. Why was the arrest warrant never served and can you update us on its current status?

Hayder Al-Khoei: The arrest warrant is still standing, but it was not enforced by the CPA or following governments, not just Ja'fari's. A time and date had been set by the CPA to arrest Moqtada for murder charges and it was supposed to be an Iraqi led-operation with US forces on stand-by just in case things went wrong. In the very last minute the Americans pulled out and the Iraqi forces refused to go ahead with the operation.

Until this day, the case has been at the mercy of politics, and politics has no mercy.

MG: Iraq is the land of conspiracy theories and rumors, so it's not surprising there is a lot of conjecture related to your father's death. One rumor I'd like to ask you about, that has been prominently mentioned, is your father was given $3 million dollars by the American CIA/Defense Department to purchase influence among the Iraqi Shia. Is there any veracity to this rumor?

Hayder Al-Khoei: Is it $3m or $13m? Which one is used more in the press? My father did not need money to purchase influence in Iraq. His name alone could influence a lot more Iraqis than US dollars can buy. Like Moqtada, it is simply his name that makes him such a popular figure. But let us speak about the $3m or $13m. That money could not have been wired in an account because its not like my father could have used his credit card to buy kebabs in Najaf. That money would have had to be hard cash. Cash would have to be carried by someone and the people with him would have seen it or at least known about it. Why is it then that only an "anonymous source" knows about this money?

I went with him to Washington DC before the war and in the meetings he had with various officials, money was never mentioned.

MG: Before your father returned to Iraq in 2003 from exile in England, he must have discussed the post-Saddam future of Iraq with his family. Can you tell us about your father's vision for Iraq?

Hayder Al-Khoei: My father would spend a lot of time traveling and working so when he did spend time with us it would be devoted to his family, not his work. So naturally Iraq was not discussed much. I however had interest in politics ever since I was a kid, and had the privilege of traveling a lot with him. His vision for Iraq, which he would repeat over and over again, was to start a new page in Iraq's history. He wanted to forget everything associated with the past and look to building a new forward-thinking democratic Iraq that respects all walks of life.

MG: And what is your vision for Iraq? What type of society would you like to see Iraq evolve in to?

Hayder Al-Khoei: I hope to see an Iraq where "wasta" no longer works. An Iraq where individuals are elected and appointed based on merit and qualifications, not name and connections. Iraq has a very traditional and conservative society. I don't think it will change but I want it to be a society that is tolerant and understanding of other cultures/beliefs. I wish to see a secular Iraq where religion plays little or no role in government.

Iraqi's sometimes look to places like Dubai with amazement and awe, I want the entire Arab and Muslim world to look at Iraq and say "wow". I am optimistic but a realist at the same time, I know we are decades away from that but I hope to see that Iraq within my lifetime.

MG: Your grandfather, Grand Ayatollah Abdul-Qasim Al-Khoei, seems to have been a larger than life figure. Born in Iran, before he moved to Najaf at age 13, he wrote 37 books and treatises, established numerous Islamic charities, foundations, and institutions around the world, and was the Marja (Islamic scholar) who instructed everyone from Ayatollah Sistani to Mohammad Baqir As-Sadr to Abdolkarim Mousavi Ardebili, former Chief Justice of Iran to Mahdi Al-Hakim.

Did you have a chance to spend any time with your grandfather before he was arrested by the Iraqi government, and what are your memories of him?

Young Hayder with Grampa Grand Ayatollah Al-Khoei
Photo courtesy of Hayder al-Khoei

Hayder Al-Khoei: I remember a few things about my grandfather. I think its safe to say I wasn't his favourite grandchild. He used to tie my legs with rope to stop me moving around because I would constantly flip over the fruit or sugar bowl in front of important guests. The thing he hated most was when I was around his office. Although he deals with millions of dollars, my grandfather was well-known for his strict oversight so when I would rip (or eat) a receipt for a few dinars he would become extremely angry and blame my mother for letting me near his papers.

MG: Would it be accurate to say that your grandfather as senior Shia cleric/Marja was the closest thing to a Shia concept of a Pope?

Hayder Al-Khoei: The Pope is the undisputed leader of Catholics, but there is usually more than one Grand Ayatollah. But yes, it is the closest thing we have to a Pope.

MG: And, there was an ideological battle between your grandfather and Ayatollah Khomeini. Can you describe to us, why they were in disagreement?

The Evil One Himself, Ayatollah Khomeini

Hayder Al-Khoei: His differences with Khomeini were on the role Islam should play in the state. My grandfather believed politics should be left for the politicians and religion to the clerics and saw no place for Islam in the government. He saw the religion as something pure that is a matter between the created and the creator and that should not be mixed with
politics.

Khomeini on the other hand believed that it is the cleric himself who should be the head of state and that Islam should play a fundamental role in government. Khomeini went further by stating that the head of state should be obeyed by the Muslim world in the same way the Prophet and Imams were obeyed. The Prophets and Imams in the Shia faith are divine figures, so when Khomeini gave these lectures in Najaf, people began to accuse him of being a self-proclaimed semi-divine figure.

Khomeini and my grandfather rarely bumped into each other in Najaf, but when they did they both respected each other and greeted each other warmly. When Khomeini landed in Baghdad, his son Mustafa called my uncle to let him know they were on their way to Najaf. It was their students who would argue with each other and have heated debates regarding which idea is more 'Islamic'.

Revolutionary fanatics hated my grandfather for not supporting Khomeini's take over in Tehran. They would publicly chant "Farah don't worry, when the Shah dies Khoei will marry you" in reference to the Iranian Empress who visited my grandfather.

MG: Because you are part of the al-Khoei family, there has been a lot of emphasis placed on the deeds of the male members in your family, but what about your mother? Can you tell us about your mother and what type of influence she has had on your life and the lives of your
siblings?

Happy Mother's Day to Hayder's Mom

Hayder Al-Khoei: My mother is my role model. She lost her husband and father within a month of each other but still stood strong. What ever life has thrown at her has bounced straight back. She is a wonderful person with a great heart whose family mean everything to her and who means everything to her family. I look up to her with respect and admiration, as does everyone who knows her.

MG: And what is your favorite dish, dessert, or meal that your mother makes?

Hayder Al-Khoei: Everything she makes is my favourite.

MG: Hayder, you live in Najaf, one of the most conservative places in Iraq, where women are forced to wear Abbayas and are harangued by the clergy and other men, if they are not properly attired in their view. Myself, I am very much anti-Hijab and if I were in power, I would ban the Hijab in the West, because it subjugates women, and I would certainly outlaw the Abbaya or Burqa, which renders women invisible. What are your thoughts on the Abbaya and other forms of Hijab? Should Muslim women be forced to wear them or should it be a personal choice in clothing?


Raquel Welch in Najaf, Iraq - 1,000,000 Years BC.
Today, she would be wearing an Abbaya.

Hayder Al-Khoei: Hijab has a cultural as well as religious aspect to it. My wife for example does not wear the same hijab in London as she does in Najaf because of the cultural 'norms' of a certain society or place but at the end of the day women should be free to wear what they want. I am against banning the hijab as passionately as I am against forcing the hijab. It is a personal choice that should be made by the individual, not big brother.

MG: Hayder, what's the best book that you've read in the last six months and why?

Hayder Al-Khoei: The Shia Revival by Vali Nasr because he explores the political and religious trends across the Middle-East and gives explains the Shia way of life (or ways of life). It also gives the reader an insight into the 1400 year old battle between Shia Islam and Sunni Islam and why they are at each others throats again.

MG: Hayder, it seems a natural thing for you to run for political office in Iraq, say the Prime Minister's spot, since you are the scion of a powerful, influential, and well respected family that carries a lot of Wasta, you are Western-trained, have a liberal education, speak fluent English and Arabic, and seem moderate and tolerant in your positions. Do you have any interest in Iraqi politics and could you use an American campaign manager?

Hayder Al-Khoei: I think if he you had told Maliki he would become Prime Minister of Iraq 6 years ago he would have laughed in your face. So who knows what could happen in 20 years time? Yes of course I have an interest in Iraqi politics but hopefully by then, my name will not be enough to run for office.

I hope to see Iraqi experts reach a standard that a US Presidential candidate would be looking for an Iraqi campaign manager, not the other way around. Thanks for the offer.

MG: You recently met with liberal Shia cleric Iyad Jamal Al-Deen, whose views about the United States, Israel, and the need for secularism in Iraq society are of great appeal to the West, but have alarmed his fellow Shia and Sunni clerics, who label him as a heretic.

Being cognizant of the fact of what happens to those who are labeled heretics in the Islamic world, do you think the political alliance of IIyad Allawi and Jamal Al-Deen will have an impact in the next Iraqi election, or will the Iraqi voters once again reject Secularism, and see the Shia voting for Shia parties, the Kurds choosing Kurds, and the Sunni electing members from the Sunni lists?

Hayder Al-Khoei: I was surprised that over 35,000 Iraqi's voted for secularism in Najaf, whose community is extremely religious. I cannot predict how good/bad Allawi will do next time but I think the overwhelming majority of voters will still vote along sectarian lines. Obviously the Shia voter believes the Shia politician will benefit him more than a Sunni politician, and vice versa. Maybe 15% of Iraqi's will not vote along sectarian lines, but I hope that number will rise with every election.

MG: Hayder, thanks very much for a nice In T View, and you have to promise me, if you ever become an Ayatollah, you'll begin one of your sermons with, "I am the ayatullah of rock-and-rollah..."

The Ayatullah of Rock-and-Rollah

Hayder Al-Khoei: Your welcome. Fat chance.