Fort Hood shooter betrayed faith, country

Sympathy goes to the families and the victims of the Fort Hood shootings. Once again the dark shadow of terrorism is cast on American Muslims but this time those serving in the U.S. armed forces. The alleged act committed by Maj. Hassan was deplorable but the only factor that makes it different from a similar shooting committed by Derik Bonestroo in 2008 at a ski resort in Colorado is that Hassan was Muslim. In both cases, they were simply the acts of deranged people who misuse religion.

We should focus more on the mental health of Mr. Hassan and not the religion of Islam, which he has defiled. Becoming a traitor and murderer and violating one's oath as a doctor is not acceptable in Islam.

American Muslim soldiers are now faced with an impending witch hunt and should not be looked upon with suspicion. It appears Hassan had many issues the Army should have uncovered. While the pressures of counseling soldiers with Post Traumatic Syndrome and being Muslim was undoubtedly difficult for Hassan, there is no excuse for mass murder.

Muslim Americans do face discrimination in the military but the Army has been one of the most progressive military branches in accommodating American Muslim personnel. As a Muslim American and former U.S. service person, I know this well. When a soldier's faith conflicts with his/her faith there are some legal options available to discharge.

In my view, Hassan is a coward and traitor to his faith and country.

Hamza Sharif Omar

Iowa City