The Department of State is issuing this Travel Alert to caution U.S. citizens of the potential for anti-U.S. demonstrations in many countries in response to stated plans by a church in Florida to burn Qur'ans on the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Demonstrations, some violent, have already taken place in several countries, including Afghanistan and Indonesia, in response to media reports of the church's plans. The potential for further protests and demonstrations, some of which may turn violent, remains high. We urge you to pay attention to local reaction to the situation, and to avoid areas where demonstrations may take place.
You can read the full text of the State Department's announcement here.
What a bunch of insensitive dopes thinking that burning the Qur'an is an appropriate way to commemorate 9/11. The hatefulness and intolerance behind such thinking is in itself a form of terrorism. While I believe in freedom of speech and expression, this is -- put simply -- a dumb-a## move. People--all around the world--would be better served ignoring the act completely. Imagine how unfulfilling it would be to the burners to get absolutely no attention at all.
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