US-based anti-Islam filmmaker, 6 others sentenced to death by Egypt court

CAIRO -- A U.S.-based Egyptian-American said to be behind the anti-Islam film "Innocence of Muslims" and six other Egyptian Christians were sentenced to death in absentia by a court in Cairo Wednesday.

The film, which insulted the prophet Muhammad, sparked violent protests and attacks on U.S. embassies across the Middle East when it was released in September. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans were killed in what is now accepted as a terrorist attack during a protest at the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya.

"The seven accused persons were convicted of insulting the Islamic religion through participating in producing and offering a movie that insults Islam and its prophet,'' Egyptian Judge Saif al-Nasr Soliman said Wednesday.

Protests ignited by a controversial film that ridicules Islam's Prophet Muhammad spread throughout Muslim world.

Hezbollah chief makes rare appearance, leads calls for protests over video

Those convicted included "Eli Basily," also known as "Nicola Basily," the court said.

A prosecution lawyer told NBC News that this referred to the man said by U.S. federal authorities to have been behind the film. He has been named in a U.S. court as Mark Basseley Youssef, a 55-year-old Coptic Christian.

The charges in Egypt included "intentionally committing acts to harm the unity of the country and peace of its land;" "calling to divide the country into small states on a sectarian basis and harming national unity;" and "using religion to promote extremist ideas resulting in religious division and disrespect [of] heavenly religion."

Any defendants convicted in absentia of a capital punishment crime in Egypt are granted an automatic appeal and thus a retrial upon returning to Egypt.

Florida pastor accused
Terry Jones, the controversial Florida pastor, is also facing charges in Egypt over the film. 

The prosecution lawyer told NBC News that the case against Jones -- known for encouraging people to burn the Quran -- would be heard on Dec. 29.

Pastor may not recognize lasting impact of Quran-burning plan

Earlier this month, Youssef was sentenced to a year in prison in California for violating the terms of his probation stemming from a 2010 bank fraud conviction. 

However, none of the violations had to do with the content of "Innocence of Muslims."

The crude, low-budget video, produced privately in California, lasted just 13 minutes. It portrayed the prophet Muhammad as a religious fraud, pedophile and womanizer. 

Cast members have said they were misled into appearing in a film they believed was an adventure drama called "Desert Warrior." 

Actress sues, says she was fooled into acting in anti-Muslim movie

U.S. federal authorities have not said whether Youssef was the person who posted the film online. Youssef wasn't supposed to use any name other than his true legal name without the prior written approval of his probation officer.

Several names have been associated with Youssef since the film trailer surfaced, including Sam Bacile and Nakoula Basseley Nakoula. Bacile was the name attached to the YouTube account that posted the video. 

Egypt's Coptic Orthodox Church did not issue an official comment on the Egyptian court's ruling, Reuters reported. 

"The church denounced the movie, which it has nothing to do with. As for today's case, it is a court ruling and the church does not comment on court decisions," a church source, who asked not to be named, told the wire service.

Christians make up around 10 percent of Egypt's 83 million people and many complain of discrimination in work and treatment. 

NBC's Charlene Gubash and Ayman Mohyeldin, Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Well, that's sure to strike Egypt from Youssef's list of holiday vacation destinations.

  • 27 votes
#1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:53 AM EST

"using religion to promote extremist ideas resulting in religious division and disrespect [of] heavenly religion."

uuuummmm.........

  • 36 votes
#1.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:16 PM EST

Egypt and Muslims in this region have more compassion, for this is wrong.
Although I don't believe people should disrespect others and their beliefs, understand the strong undercurrent that has helped to cause this.

If the courts kill them for this, others who disagree with you have a right to retaliate for the unjust murder of this or these individuals.

Two wrongs do not make a right.

But sentencing him to death is very wrong and if I were any kin to him I would want my revenge on these courts some how.

Do the right thing because when you do wrong it is only human nature for others to react negatively against you.
Also, something like this makes it difficult for others to want to help any muslims around the world.

In other words the courts are messing up it's communities reputation 100 times worse than what this film maker could.

  • 7 votes
#1.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:17 PM EST

To some people, even if you look cross eyed or the wrong waywhile mentioning Muhammad they consider it an insult to Islam. One just cannot win with some people!

  • 29 votes
#1.3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:36 PM EST

When Islam’s defenders challenge Christianity and other faiths, their dialogue is based upon their assumption that Muhammad was the ‘Seal of the Prophets.’ According to them, this would give him the authority to supersede and refute the teachings in the Bible with his writings in the Koran.

In order for Muhammad to qualify to be the Prophet of Deuteronomy 18:18, it will become necessary for him to satisfy the unique attributes that belonged to Moses which were previously mentioned in chapter 1. The following seven categories will provide the necessary proof that not only is he to be considered ‘ineligible’ as the Prophet like Moses, but declared as a false prophet and teacher:

1)
During the time of Moses' birth, Exodus 1:22 reveals that the Pharaoh of Egypt had made a decree that all newly born male children of Israel would be killed. When Muhammad was born, a decree of this nature and magnitude was never made.

2)
In order to rescue the newborn Moses from Pharaoh's decree, Exodus 2:2-6, 10 reveals that his mother sent him into Egypt when he was three months of age. It was there where he was kept safe. This never happened to Muhammad!

3)
Moses was a descendent of the tribe of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was renamed Israel. Unlike Moses, though Muhammad’s genealogy is not mentioned in the Koran, he is said to be a descendent of Ishmael, NOT Israel.

This fact may not seem important, but it is! According to Deuteronomy 18:15, Moses told the children of Israel that God would raise up a Prophet who will be like him ‘of thy brethren.’ Therefore, he must be a descendent of Abraham’s promised son Jacob, not Ishmael:

  • 8 votes
#1.4 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:39 PM EST

Disrupting the internal peace of Egypt?

  • 17 votes
#1.5 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:42 PM EST

I guess democracy does not include freedom of speech in Egypt. The problem is that you can not have the former without the latter. So long as there is no free speech in Egypt there will be no democracy!!!

  • 28 votes
#1.6 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 4:10 PM EST

Egypt's idea of Freedom of Speech: Death.

How is that "Egyptian Arab Spring" working again ?

Wait a minute.....the "revolution" was for Democracy.

  • 10 votes
#1.7 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 4:43 PM EST

This all proves once again what a terrific waste of time and energy organized religion is.

  • 25 votes
#1.8 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 5:21 PM EST

This is the country that Obama promised two billion dollars to.If they haven't received our tax dollars of two billion yet then the offer needs to be withdrawn.

  • 15 votes
#1.9 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 5:34 PM EST

1st.... Ive heard of a lot of "different names for an American, Naturally born or "naturalized" and others that cannot be mentioned but never this:

A U.S.-based Egyptian-American

I thought he was an American?

Also... (last time I checked) The movie MAY have started the "protests" all over but it was not responsible for Benghazi... They don't mention it was a "Terrorist Attack" but connected it to the movie:

The film, which insulted the prophet Muhammad, sparked violent protests and attacks on U.S. embassies across the Middle East when it was released in September. Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans were killed in what is now accepted as a terrorist attack during a protest at the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya.

I can tolerate NBC's bias... but this is Not even an article... It all but sides with the Egyptian ruling without mentioning OUR freedom of speech.... HUH? I guess

@Todd-651965 I agree... thank God... but after seeing this Administration in action... I wonder what it's going to look like in 4 more years.

  • 11 votes
#1.10 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:08 PM EST

Wait a minute.....the "revolution" was for Democracy.

Seems like you don't understand democracy. If everyone votes that no one has free speech and that someone who locked himself in a cave and thought he heard an angel talking to him can't ever be insulted in any way, with punishment of death then that is democracy functioning perfectly well.

  • 2 votes
#1.11 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:11 PM EST

What religion promises heaven to those that kill infidels or non believers. Islam.

  • 13 votes
#1.12 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:44 PM EST

Justathought,

Democracy is not all that desirable. It is two wolves and sheep voting for what to have for dinner.

Our system is based on constitution limitations on Democracy designed to keep factions from taking control of the government. Free speech is constitutionally protected in America. Elimination of free speech and implementation of blasphemy laws in America would require a 2/3 majority in congress AND ratification by 2/3 of the states. It won't happen.

"Democracy is the worst form of government except all the others that have been tried". Sir Winston Churchill

  • 2 votes
#1.13 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:50 PM EST

Islam is a man made religion straight from the depths of hell. Their so called prophet was a pedophile and whore monger, and he did not ascend into heaven. Anyone that believes the way to heaven is through a false prophet has been deceived by Satan.

  • 11 votes
#1.14 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 7:13 PM EST

They'll want to get you for that comment, Ray! LOL!

Put you on their "to-be-killed" list...wooooooo

  • 9 votes
#1.15 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 7:23 PM EST

Flame, could you explain how this is not mentioning Benghazi as a terrorist attack?

" Ambassador Christopher Stevens and three other Americans were killed in what is now accepted as a terrorist attack during a protest at the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi, Libya."

I'm just confused how you can say the article doesn't call it a terrorist attach and then copy some of the article text that includes a sentence calling it a terrorist attack.

  • 2 votes
#1.16 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 7:46 PM EST

More Middle East NUTBAGS!

  • 7 votes
#1.17 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 8:04 PM EST

All religions are man made. And like all films some may be better made than others. Some films contain truth, others are filled with lies and hate. Truth and religion should rarely be used in the same sentence.

  • 4 votes
#1.18 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 8:26 PM EST

Convicted of insulting the Islamic religion and Prophet -- omfg, that's huuuuge! Once you've got that on your rap-sheet, you might as well jump off a bridge - or start a new talk show called "Moe Hamhead is a Fargin' Icehole". Either way, your life here is basically over. //end sarc

  • 3 votes
#1.19 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 8:33 PM EST

I fell like I am in Iran again in 1979.

Seriously, what a joke these revolutions have become in that part of the world. All I know is that I am glad to be here.

Enjoy the Islamic Awakening because it will have nothing but death and destruction for the region. Iranians have paid the price for it and now it is Arabs' turn to live under these rules.

  • 3 votes
#1.20 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 9:21 PM EST

Islam = wacked out fruitcakes. It semms if you are a wacked out Muslim freedom is a non idea. The sooner this religion is outlawed world wide the sooner the world will be a more peaceful place.

BTW, Muhammed or however you spell his name was a common thief and a murderer. Just read his bio.

  • 7 votes
#1.21 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 9:37 PM EST

@!$%# religion and @!$%# islam.

  • 6 votes
#1.22 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:01 PM EST

"The seven accused persons were convicted of insulting the Islamic religion through participating in producing and offering a movie that insults Islam and its prophet,''

Their religion insults me, however, I dont give them a death sentence! Thats the difference between civilized and UNcivilized!!

  • 10 votes
#1.23 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:03 PM EST

@Jon-1321288 The "Now considered.... during a protest.." part is what irked my nerves... It is saying a Terrorist attack.. but it saying it was "during a protest"... all evidence says No protest what so ever. The article is basically asserting a "lie" The man who made the movie.. spending a year in prison for "violating parole" was responsible for the "uprisings" all over the globe and is "partially" responsible for Benghazi and is found "guilty" of a Egyptian hate crime.. but he (under their law) has an appeal. REALLY?

He is an American.. I don't support what he did.. but that "film" (13 min?) was made in JUNE was uploaded not by him. It is his fee speech.

  • 2 votes
#1.24 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:05 PM EST

Moses was a descendent of the tribe of Levi, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, who was renamed Israel. Unlike Moses, though Muhammad’s genealogy is not mentioned in the Koran, he is said to be a descendent of Ishmael, NOT Israel.

Raymond...you hit the nail on the head! The whole reason they hate Israel is because they feel Ishamel was cheated of his birth right as the oldest son. God promised Abraham is son Isaac would be blessed as well as HIS decedents.

The problem is, if they don't believe in God, then why would they CARE about his blessing or birth right?

They are basing their hatred on a LIE that they dont even believe in!

  • 7 votes
#1.25 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:17 PM EST

I wonder if Hillary Clinton had anything to do with this ruling?

  • 4 votes
#1.26 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:23 PM EST

Observe this:

It seems that all pronouncements made in the name of Islam and in the name of the prophet Muhammed are based upon resentment, anger, hate, hysteria, ostentation, and destruction of something or somebody.

Islam seems to see "evil" in everything and never seems to offer anything that is either positive or uplifting. The "five pillars of Islam" are so trivial that they cannot be said to approach even the most rudimentary level of philosophy.

Islam demonstrates its mental and moral failure day after day, time after time....killing after killing.

If you disagree with my statements, then show me where I am wrong.

  • 7 votes
#1.27 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:28 PM EST

We're dealing w/people who have the IQ of a camel's balls and who are only a half of a rung higher on the evolutionary ladder than cavemen.

  • 7 votes
#1.28 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 1:56 AM EST

HA! HA! Gemini, I think you've hit the proverbial nail on the head. Is this why they hate education? Easier to control the ignorant masses?

  • 4 votes
#1.29 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:11 AM EST

"The film, which insulted the prophet Muhammad, sparked violent protests and attacks on U.S. embassies across the Middle East when it was released in September."

This is height of intolerance and classic example of one-way traffic.

If video maker and six others can be sentenced to death on insulting their Mohammad, then the followers of Islamic cult will not have many places left on earth.

These highly intolerant followers have been erazing and insulting non-Muslims since the birth of Islamic cult.

If Saudi Arabia does not permit non-Islamic religious places, their Salaffi and Wahhabi mosques in non-Muslim nations should be closed right away!

If any Muslim opposes closing mosques, he or she can also go to a Muslim nation of his or her choice.

  • 4 votes
#1.30 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:22 AM EST

This fact may not seem important, but it is! According to Deuteronomy 18:15, Moses told the children of Israel that God would raise up a Prophet who will be like him ‘of thy brethren.’ Therefore, he must be a descendent of Abraham’s promised son Jacob, not Ishmael:

Sucks when story books contradict each other. The Jews should sue all the others for copyright infringement!

  • 3 votes
#1.31 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 10:04 AM EST

Jon 1321288 Thank you, wish more more people would wake up and smell the coffee, to put it lightly. It's just so hard to believe that so many people believe these ridiculous stories that religion has to offer in this day in age. How long will it take for them to realize they've been lied to their entire lives. I feel sorry for some people who will live their whole life believing these stories and the people telling them. When will it end in a country so advanced as the U.S. you would think by now surly people would have figured it out by now. Talk about sheep they just keep lining up to kill and die in the name of their almighty who ever it may be, just crazy.

    #1.32 - Wed Dec 5, 2012 10:34 AM EST
    Reply

    Thank God we have the 1st Amendment....

    • 25 votes
    Reply#2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:54 AM EST
    Comment author avatarcanon-2792132Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

    Yes, for now but, the UN and Obama are working on changing that.

    • 22 votes
    #2.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:59 AM EST

    Bush said it was "just a goddam piece of paper," so, what's the big deal?

    • 7 votes
    #2.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:43 AM EST

    Where is the wonderful UN on this?

    • 9 votes
    #2.3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:49 AM EST

    Todd-651965

    Thank God we have the 1st Amendment....

    Thank Allah and Trinidad James we have the 1st Amendment too....

    • 3 votes
    #2.4 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:13 PM EST

    Where is the wonderful UN on this?

    Busy trying to frame Israel for poisoning the dear humanitarian Yassar Arafat.

    Apparently the dead in Islam supersede the human rights of the living.

    Eventually the crazies in Muslim lands will destroy themselves just like the human sacrificing Romans and Aztecs. Nothing this ridiculous could possibly last forever.

    • 17 votes
    #2.5 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:25 PM EST

    The film, which insulted the prophet Muhammad, sparked violent protests and attacks on U.S. embassies across the Middle East when it was released in September

    This statement is a blatant LIE and everyone knows it especially the people in the Whitehouse.

    • 20 votes
    #2.6 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:04 PM EST

    My God is most merciful and if you don't believe me, I must kill you in His name. Beautiful, freakin' beautiful religion. The virus known as islam spreads its evil stench through the koran. mohammed ...patient zero.

    • 15 votes
    #2.7 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:31 PM EST

    Debora.. "This statement is a blatant LIE and everyone knows it especially the people in the Whitehouse."

    You know it's a lie, and I know it's a lie, and the people in the White House are starting to admit that it might.. just might .. be a wee bit untrue. But it's apparent that these NBCNEWS staff writers have their heads so far up their as.... (oops, cant say that) that they can't see the truth.

    • 12 votes
    #2.8 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:41 PM EST

    Debora and Pahoo,

    I, too, know that the statement is a lie, but the media has to protect their hero so they can't call it what it is. AN ACT OF TERRORISM!! PERIOD!!

    • 12 votes
    #2.9 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:07 PM EST

    Indeed Todd. This Christian should be very grateful that he is currently in a secular democracy.

    • 6 votes
    #2.10 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:21 PM EST

    "Nothing this ridiculous could possibly last forever."

    Not to be the bearer of bad news, but...

    Both major religions have lasted WAY WAY longer then some Societies.

    Don't think for a second that will EVER change.

    • 2 votes
    #2.11 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:26 PM EST

    Thank Thomas Jefferson!

    • 3 votes
    #2.12 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 4:18 PM EST

    What are the Sunni Islamic mad people in Egypt going to do about their Godfather, House of Saud?

    House of Saud, a strict Wahhabi, is not even tolerating Prophet Mohammad’s heritage places. House of Saud consists of a megalomaniac, despotic and bigoted ruler and highly corrupt, despotic, bigoted seventh century mindset 5000 princes and princesses.

    In Mecca, the house of one of the wives of Mohammed was demolished and converted into public lavatories. Mohammed’s birth place may vanish with plans to have skyscrapers, mega shopping malls and a Grand mosque!

    In Medina, ten years ago a mosque of grandson of Mohammed was dynamited and the religious police were celebrating on this. There are plans to pull down three seventh century mosques in future.

    • 2 votes
    #2.13 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:25 AM EST
    Reply

    Isn't nice to see the sprouting of democracy and all that arab spring stuff? Egypt lost a dictator and gained a dictator what a change any hope?

    • 9 votes
    Reply#3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:10 AM EST

    Everyone should remember that Islam is a religion of peace... AND, if you don't believe it, they will kill you to prove it!

    • 44 votes
    Reply#4 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:15 AM EST

    lol so peaceful

    • 8 votes
    #4.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:17 AM EST

    How many countries have been invaded and and are currently occupied by Muslim armies? How many countries have been invaded and are currently occupied by Christian armies?? Anybody?? There IS NO peaceful religion.

    • 12 votes
    #4.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:48 AM EST

    hey Roland, get real. It isn't religion that makes 'em hateful. It's being human.

    More people have been killed for money, food, non-religious beliefs, you name it,than were ever killed by religious differences.

    • 8 votes
    #4.3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:33 PM EST

    hey Roland, get real. It isn't religion that makes 'em hateful.

    It is (often due to religion) in the case of Islam, occasionally in Christianity too.

    • 9 votes
    #4.4 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:57 PM EST

    From the article:

    The crude, low-budget video, produced privately in California, lasted just 13 minutes. It portrayed the prophet Muhammad as a religious fraud, pedophile and womanizer.

    The video was silly junk but Islam's prophet was indeed a fraud, a pedophile, a lusting hedonist, and a warlord/killer.

    • 20 votes
    #4.5 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:14 PM EST

    Its not the "religion" or "lifestyle" as Christianity really is, that makes people hateful. Its the fact that they are hateful. We humans are hateful by nature. The whole thing about Muslim countries not invading anyone is simple, they don't have the money, or the military strength to do that to any country. And Islam is of peace? Thats false. If you read English versions of the Quran, it says many times along the lines of, see those people? Tehy dont believe as you do, go kill them. Christianity says, see those people? They dont believe what you do, go spread the Gospel and if they still don't believe it, leave them be. Christians arent a believe what we do or we kill you, and if there any like that, which I know there are, they arent real christian. They're sorta like the Extreme Muslims. Oh and war isn't because of religion, ther has never been a war fought by two countries cause of religion, its always been resources. So if you say religion causes wars, you're wrong. Maybe half of a % of all wars are "religious" wars. Fought between two religions. the US military isn't a Christian military. Im pretty sure we have Christians, Buddhists, Jews, Muslims, atheists, and all sorts of beliefs in the US military. The reason Muslim countries don't invade people is cause they don't have the resources to do so.

    And as Adam44 said Muhammed was a fraud. He taught all of these things that Muslims should do, these laws, commandments whatever, but yet he broke every one of them. He had a 9 year old wife when he was in his 30s for crying out loud. That like Jesus being who is in Christianity but going out and breaking all 10 Commandments. Which he never did, that is documented at least.

    • 4 votes
    #4.6 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:02 PM EST

    Hey Adam!!! Hope all is well with you.

    The video was silly junk

    Yes, it was. It appears that this is still being used as a vehicle to continue the violence.

    • 5 votes
    #4.7 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:02 PM EST

    The 100-year war, wasn't about religion! It was just Protestants fighting Catholics.... over .. ummm... a .. ummm.......

    • 4 votes
    #4.8 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 4:38 PM EST

    "Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!" - Monty Python

    Every Christian that thinks Islam is evil, needs to first look at their own history (or, as in their own book, "..., cast the first stone." - some important dude).

    • 4 votes
    #4.9 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:20 PM EST

    Their definition of peace is very similar to the Red Communist's definition of peace. "Peace is victory".

    Islam means submission.

    I will never submit, I would be willing to kill every Muslim on Earth rather than submit to them.

    • 3 votes
    #4.10 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:54 PM EST

    Hey Chefaz, nice to "see" you again, so-to-speak. I hope that you've been well!

    Mike, I would reply in depth to your thougtful post but I don't have the energy tonight.
    Too much ground to cover. But I see where you're coming from and only disagree on a few points.

    I'm an atheist myself (small "a") but only have a problem with religion when religious fanatics have a problem with me, as for example wanting me dead for not being a part of / or subservient to / their creed. The ONLY religion today that fits that description is ISLAM which is why I take every opportunity to criticize it and the fanatics it helped spawn.

    If Islam didn't exist then there would still be violent fanatics in the world today, but there wouldn't be nearly so many of them, and they wouldn't act as a unified mass movement across the world, seeking supremacy for the creed that focused their hatred in such a unique fashion.

    That's why I would argue that Islam in particular IS responsible for whipping up and focusing hatred against those who do not follow or agree with its beliefs and agenda.

    Islam is by far THE MOST regressive, repressive, violent, misogynist, intolerant, supremacist religion in the world, period. That's why so many hard-core fundamentalist Muslims reflect those qualities in their thinking and actions, because they are trying to follow Muhammad's example and Islam's direction as with this telling "Golden Rule" from the Qur'an:

    Quran (48:29) "Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. Those with him are hard (ruthless) against the disbelievers and merciful among themselves"

    • 4 votes
    #4.11 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 1:01 AM EST

    p.s. I'm not against Muslims, per-se, just Islam. Muslims are just people like you and me, and often just as victimized by Islam as Non-muslims are, sometimes more-so. Most of them are just born into it by accident of geography and are raised under its smothering omnipotence. It's no wonder that it's so hard to leave Islam when that particular act of individual conscience is a crime punishable by DEATH in Islam. That death sentence for leaving Islam (apostasy) comes from the "holy" Hadith from al-Bukhari's highly "authentic" collection of Muhammad's words that have him saying:

    "Whomever leaves his religion (meaning to leave Islam of course), Kill Him."

    Sadly, outrageously, many people, Muslims or former Muslims, have been killed for leaving -- or trying to leave -- Islam.

    • 4 votes
    #4.12 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 1:15 AM EST

    You are right.

    For fooling big time, Islam has a love and peace singing, screaming and dancing version, Sufism! These Sufis can start singing all along day and night!

    In Pakistan and Mali, these Sufis' mosques are blown up to pieces while these love and peace dancers pray their Allah and Koran/Quran is torn to pieces.

    Why have been the judges in Egypt and other places silent on those responsible for tearing their Quran/Koran to pieces and killing those love and dance people?

    Do they get into Islamic heroin sessions of deep slumber when required and waking up once in a way?

    Are suicide bombings and blasts accepted ways of insulting their holy scriptures, clerics/mullahs (look at the Islamic beasts' dresses, faces and actions all over the world) and religion?

    • 3 votes
    #4.13 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:37 AM EST
    Reply

    Wow pretty strict sentencing. Best not to commit a crime like this!

    • 2 votes
    Reply#5 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:15 AM EST

    All over the world, there should be worse crimes than these to challenge these Islamic Nazi one-way traffic beasts and barbarians.

    If we give in: if we sit, it will be crime and if we stand, it will be bigger crime.

    "Terry Jones, the controversial Florida pastor, is also facing charges in Egypt over the film.

    The prosecution lawyer told NBC News that the case against Jones -- known for encouraging people to burn the Quran -- would be heard on Dec. 29."

    In future, Terry Jones should wear an Islamic dress; select a mosque; place many Qurans and Mohammud's cartoons; and he should blow up mosque while people are praying. Then Terry Jones becomes an Islamic warrior. Many Muslims will dance for him.

    Of course, it will be better if he does these outside the US! Inside the US, many courts will be after him!!!!

    • 2 votes
    #5.1 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 3:25 AM EST
    Reply

    so let me get this straight? we arrested the guys who made the video because wasnt he an american citizen from egypt? if that is the case, what was he arested for in america and how was he extradited? also how can egypt charge a man in our country for supporting their freedom of speech? this is an outrage that americans would actually stand by while this happens....what about all the insults to the jews? and what about the insults to christians and americans period? this is a joke and its time for the people of america to stand up for their rights and the constitution that protects them.

    • 4 votes
    Reply#6 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:16 AM EST

    He went to jail over here because he broke conditions of his probation (which he was put on after stealing Social Security numbers). Conditions of Nakoula's probation include not using aliases and not using the Internet without prior approval from his probation officer.

    I'm pretty sure that he's also not going to be extradited. They can make rulings all they want, but that doesn't mean that our government has to oblige by them. The filmmaker just better make sure that he doesn't go back to Egypt.

    • 2 votes
    #6.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:57 PM EST

    I agree, rather than arresting him, we should be offering him asylum.

    • 1 vote
    #6.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 6:56 PM EST

    expatdownunda

    I agree, rather than arresting him, we should be offering him asylum.

    But, then they'll want to kill us all...oh...wait...

    • 1 vote
    #6.3 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:27 AM EST
    Reply

    Their culture is different than ours and their laws are different. I am so glad I live in America, not that I am going to or have commited a crime.

    God Bless America!

    • 11 votes
    Reply#7 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:18 AM EST
    Comment author avatarWarren-1380094Expand Comment Comment collapsed by the community

    In your glass house. Stupid F££ Americans.. wake up to the real world.

    • 2 votes
    #7.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:57 AM EST

    Warren,

    We don't make it a practice to sentence our people to death here since we protect the right to free speech and all. Even for those who call us "Stupid F££ Americans".

    LOL. Like we don't hear that everyday. There is a reason this is the greatest nation on earth.....tolerance and acceptance and an ability to ignore idiots who slander our religious deities. To each there own. These are the reasons we have people from all parts of this world flock to our shores....to experience diversity.....which is exactly what nature intends. A diverse world.

    • 18 votes
    #7.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:06 PM EST

    Nice post, Troy and heidi, I concur.

    • 6 votes
    #7.3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:50 PM EST

    Hey Troy. Looks like you need to wake up because the tolerance and acceptance is a f*cking lie.

    www . counter-currents . com/2012/11/a-white-nationalist-memo-to-white-male-republicans/

    • 2 votes
    #7.4 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:24 PM EST

    Hmmm...that symbol beside your name...why did you choose that. I've seen it before. It has been used by racists and others so not sure if you mean something good by using it or bad...what is the significance of this symbol to you?...just curious is all.

    To respond to your "wake up" comment though;

    Yeah...because we burn people at the stake and sentence them to death for ridiculous reasons such as exercising freedom of speech....incredibly ignorant in this mans case, but nevertheless, freedom of speech.

    I also don't make it a practice to read anything from a website that is racist in nature like I assume the link above points to. There are plenty of us "white-male-republicans" who in know way promote racist ideology. I have to guess that this is just one white racists opinion if I am going by title of link. It does not reflect the collective belief. If one must be reminded, the war to free slaves was a white man's war and many of us white men died for the cause.

    Not all white men are racist. Not by far!

    • 7 votes
    #7.5 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:59 PM EST

    Troy1101

    Don't worry, the symbol Ramay is using is just a sketch of his butt crack - he is probably just mooning you, which is also a statement of his preferred level of discourse.

    • 8 votes
    #7.6 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 5:09 PM EST

    @Troy and ORB - It might also be the Norse Rune of Algiz, which is supposed to symbolize protection. But can we just can the hatred today and talk reasonably (preferably with cool heads)?

    So having read this article, it says nothing about the producer of said video being extradited. It also says they're having some sort of trial over Ted Jones, the pastor responsible for the mock witch trial of the Quran.

    Knowing full well that Ted is an American citizen, I'm more inclined to believe they (the Egyptians) are taking a page from Ted's book and giving him a taste of his own medicine - and I also think that the video maker was supposed to be Muslim or something.

    But yeah, seems Egypt is telling both to stay the hell away from their nation. Knowing Ted, he's not gonna go there unless it involves an army of cross-bearing shotgun-wielding extremist Christians and the purpose of going is to punish the Egyptians. But we all know that he'd never be THAT stupid, right?

    • 2 votes
    #7.7 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 7:00 PM EST

    Crimson,

    I truely enjoyed your apologist post. Being from a Muslim faith whoes country was absolutely ruined, I must admit you do make a pretty good case for the Islamist. You simply justify everything they do and then you blame the home country for all the stupidity.

    • 4 votes
    #7.8 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 9:30 PM EST

    Crimson,

    Thanks for the education on Nortic runes, as if I did not already know that.

    I was curious what that symbol ment to Ramay, given the rest of his bizarro comments, I assume it is associated with something it was not intended to be. It has been used by all sorts of groups throughout history to include Pagens and by Nazi wack job mystics. Various groups used this symbol as headstones when they buried their dead as well. Was just curious what it ment to him. But like all people who spew outlandish racial hatred he simply left his half witted comment and moved on...I think I will go with ORBs most convincing description....lol.

    Just so I got this right, you are comparing the Egyptian government sentencing 7 people to death to a wack job in little old Gainesville, Florida burning a Koran? Seems a bit of a stretch. Ted Jones is seriously a freaking wack job with nothing...no power, no money, not even more than a few followers who are equally nuts! I'd like to think a National government has a collective intelligence at least a bit higher than a back woods extremist idiot preacher.

    • 3 votes
    #7.9 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 8:34 AM EST

    Well isn't this a great big party...

    To Troy: In this case, the life rune, is used as a symbol for the survival of our White race. It is good to me and bad to you I'm sure. Regarding your statement "Yeah...because we burn people at the stake and sentence them to death for ridiculous reasons such as exercising freedom of speech..." it's not being burned at the stake, because that would be too straight forward and wake people (even you) up to what is happening; instead it's the deliberate, slow and absolute dispossession of the people that built this country. I'm sure that by calling me racist (true) and ignorant (far from it) you think your helping to save yourself a place of favor among the new majority. It will not. I know not all White men are racist, in fact most are not.That is precisely the reason I posted the link to that essay in particular. Enjoy you black muslim granchildren.

      #7.10 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 11:43 AM EST
      Reply

      GREAT.. next should be Obama...

        Reply#8 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:56 AM EST

        Come and try to get him....we dare you. Nothing would unite a nation like the threat of someone sentencing our President to death.

        • 10 votes
        #8.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:09 PM EST

        Wow Troy. You are lost. Nothing would happen; and if he did get offed, the only things that would happen is it would start a race war here and another/escalated war somewhere else.

          #8.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:29 PM EST

          Wow, I think you two are on the wrong site. I can't list any becasue I'm not a loser but I think there are propoganda websites out there that cater to your mental ideals. I am a republican and not that I voted for Obama but we would light your a*s up up should you choose to mess with us or ours.

          The freedom to choose any religion you want as long as it is not harmful to others shouldn't seem far fetched to people. Not sure what planet these morons are on but, "earth to lunatics... earth to lunatics."

          • 6 votes
          #8.3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:42 PM EST

          makessense,

          That is what I am saying. Republican, Democrat, black or white, it would not matter. Not a single red blooded American would stand for something as outragious as what Warren is suggesting. And no, Ramay, it would not start a race war in this country. We would all unite and "light up your a*s for messing with one of our own regardless of who they are and where their heritage is traced back to. See, the thing about Americans is that we can fight with eachother like brothers but we can fight along side of eachother like brothers too! Americans are Americans first, the rest of that jazz is in the back ground.

          Why so divisive Ramay? It accomplishes nothing. I can respect a devil's advocate, but not someone who thinks our President should be sentenced to death...that is just pure ignorance and one must know, something Americans would never allow to happen.

          This guy is first, an American citizen and Egypt is nuts if they think they can sentence one of ours to death by law and think we will just hand him on over. Egypt is playing a dangerous game for a nation who owes it's entire existence to a single river that flows through a 1000 miles of desert. Do you know how easy it would be to turn that tap off.

          • 2 votes
          #8.4 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:13 PM EST

          Inpeached, yes, sentanced to Death no. While It looks like Obama has committed crimes, they are not punishible by death. Neather is the film maker. I think the US should stop all payments to Egypt, until they remove these sentances.

          • 3 votes
          #8.5 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 9:36 PM EST

          No one had ever heard of that video until Susan Rice called the terrorist attack a protest based on the video. She stated it 5 times on TV. Now Basily has a death sentence hanging over his head, albeit in ab sentia, but a death sentence nonetheless. You know that the radical Islamists here in the U.S. will kill him when he's released from jail. I doubt very much that the government which pointed the finger at him will see that he has protection upon his release. There are too many unanswered questions about the whole Benghazi and Basily thing. I think Basily is the scapegoat here and if the radicals do manage to kill him it will be more blood on the hands of this administration. Will it never end?

          • 1 vote
          #8.6 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:37 PM EST

          You do realize this is America don't you? Regardless which country sentenced him to death, to carry out that sentence here in AMERICA would fall under the category of first degree murder and would require the appropriate sentencing in an UNITED STATES court of law.

          • 2 votes
          #8.7 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:50 AM EST

          essell,

          ....A rational mind....thanks for chiming in.

            #8.8 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 8:37 AM EST
            Reply

            Come and get him. We dare you.

            • 10 votes
            Reply#9 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:03 PM EST

            I'll second that - and bring thousands of your friends so we can make a dent in your mysogynist society.

            • 6 votes
            #9.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:53 PM EST

            Thank God for the NRA.

            • 2 votes
            #9.2 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:52 AM EST
            Reply

            It is time that we started sentencing these radical islamists to death for making threats against our country and threatening the lives of our citizens. We should put a fatah on the head of every single one of them that yells "death to America."

            • 5 votes
            Reply#10 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:20 PM EST

            Personally, I'd be in favor of turning those sand dunes into one gigantic mirror.

            • 1 vote
            #10.1 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 2:56 AM EST
            Reply

            There's a lot of sheep to be lead to the slaughter in Egypt so they got what they deserve: more beatings and executions for not falling in line with the government.

            Dumb a$$ sand turd$!

            • 3 votes
            Reply#11 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:25 PM EST

            This what happens when any religion is given a place in goverment or the courts. A perfect example of the argument for the seperation of church and state. What was said about Islam may have been offensive but how does this warrant a court sentenced anything. When any religion has that kind of power, watch out!!!

            • 4 votes
            Reply#12 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:27 PM EST

            Study the Bill of Wright Artcile again it is not worded ,does not say, nor never said Seperation of Church and State The Damnd to hell ACLU is wrong and so are you! You Voted for the Scam Artist you will reap waht you Sow and voted for!

            We are not a Democracy read the Federalist papers on all the Artilces in detailed explanation, we have so called Proffesors on American Soil who are Still drinking the Acid Laced Kool Aid of the 60's and erly 70's pushing lies on Communism and how Joseph Stalin was not a Murderer!" Communits Facist,Nazis Livs In America."

            The American Communist Party Ebndorsed Obama A fact, Your DemonacRAT Party denounced God! His Wrath and anger is slow to Consuming Power and win will he explode ? Open HOMOS in the Military and now Pushing for Special wrights is Embarresing to God fearing people ! Why the Jihad is growing in America Only cowards of this new PC DemoISism are guilty! The Dem party represenst the communist Party period ! A Liberal can never calim Patriotisism and hate GOD!

              #12.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:39 PM EST

              Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof

              Woe is me follow the bouncing logic ball.

              No law respecting an establishment of religion, means Congress stays out of the business of religion.

              Or prohibiting the free exercise therof means they wont stop citizens from practicing their religion.

              Put them together and you have a congress that will stay out of the religious business but let you worship freely

              SEPERATION OF CHURCH AND STATE.....dumbass.

              • 5 votes
              #12.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:12 PM EST

              Well, than, Woe, if we can't calim patriotism, what can we calim? And if we can't hate God, who *can* we hate? Inquiring minds want to know.

                #12.3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 4:32 PM EST

                "Once you have placed a label on the box you have constructed from your beliefs, you cease to possess the ability to perceive beyond its constraints."

                • 1 vote
                #12.4 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 5:34 PM EST

                Johnny, You are half right. Congress Shall make no law respecting an Establishment of religion, or pohibiting the free exercise thereof.

                Congress shall not create a state relegion. or Have a preferred religion. This was because of the "Chirch of England" and the Colonies did not want a State religion, they wanted the freedom to choose thier own religion.

                Or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. (this is where your ball, got deflated), This give the religious citizen, or the Chirch the right to get involved in state, and federal matters, but not the other way around. The State has no right to petition a chirch for changs it wants, but the Chirch has every right to petition the State, for changes. That is why the Obama birth control law was wrong, since he had no power to make chirches or religious organizations carry birthcontrol against their teachings.

                Woe is me is correct, and has correct understanding of the Constitution. Too bad so little people do.

                Steven, just because you are a Christian, you don't stop thinking or questioning. It is proper to question, and seek the truth. It works for Religion, and Politics.

                • 1 vote
                #12.5 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 9:55 PM EST

                300,

                Where did I say religious people couldn't be involved in government? What I indicated, maybe I didn't say it well enuogh, was that because we can not establish a prefered religion through our laws, then our laws can not be made for religious reasons as such. See I understand better than you think I do. The fact that in another country religious laws are imposed and in this case, a death sentence for religious reasons, is why we have separation of Chrurch and state. I hope that clears up your confusion.

                  #12.6 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 9:03 AM EST
                  Reply

                  Religion in action....meanwhile in the United States, a man says his Christian prayer group leader told him to murder his wife....which he did.

                  Nothing like misplaced faith to make people crazy, eh?

                  • 3 votes
                  Reply#13 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:35 PM EST

                  Where are all the Hollywood types who normally are screaming about 1st amendment rights? Who, from the Hollywood establishment, is going to stand up and defend this man for having his 1st amendment rights destroyed,right in front of the American public.All he did was make a movie and this regime thinks it is enough to have him incarcerated for a year.If offensive movies are to be the determining factor in the future for who is to go to jail,I have a list of directors i'd like to see put in the slam.

                  • 2 votes
                  Reply#14 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:49 PM EST

                  All he did was make a movie and this regime thinks it is enough to have him incarcerated for a year.

                  It's your prerogative to believe as you wish, but his incarceration doesn't have anything to do with the video. It has to do with violation of his parole restrictions.

                  If you're referring to Egypt's court decision, he was sentenced to death because of the video, not to one year in jail.

                  • 5 votes
                  #14.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:41 PM EST

                  mas--he's incarcerated because he broke his probation on previous bank fraud charges. Do a little research--Nothing to do with the movie (only he invited attention by making it)...

                  • 5 votes
                  #14.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:47 PM EST

                  @Maxwell's Silver Hammer - There are questions about his arrest for "parole violation". When was the SWAT team ever called in the middle of the night to arrest a man for a parole violation? As a parolee is mandated to keep his parole officer informed of his address, or change of same, a couple of cops or detectives could have easily gone to his home and picked him up during the day. As a retired LEO it smells of a set up.

                  • 1 vote
                  #14.3 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 10:57 PM EST

                  @Joan-1991647

                  Not sure where you got your info on the swat team jumping on him at night but anyways ...

                  His parole violations included a few things. The most obvious one was that he was prohibited to use the Internet. He did use it quite a few times not only to post the video but also while making the movie. This with different aliases, another parole violation.

                  Hen pleaded guilty to 4 accounts.

                  • 1 vote
                  #14.4 - Thu Nov 29, 2012 12:47 AM EST
                  Reply

                  Any defendants convicted in absentia of a capital punishment crime in Egypt are granted an automatic appeal and thus a retrial upon returning to Egypt.

                  Nice way to get those who are outside the Country to give themselves up. Like "thats" going to happen.

                  And some still claim that Islam is a "peacefull religion".

                  I am a christian, should I "claim" to be offended by Bill Maher's anti-christian movie's and rants. Do I have the media and President saying it's O-K to kill them. What would be the difference?

                  This is wrong, and the media and the President, and the "Left", better wake up and start standing up for our "rights".

                  • 5 votes
                  Reply#15 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 12:58 PM EST

                  Are you also insulted by Maher's "anti-muslim" scenes?

                  • 2 votes
                  #15.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 3:24 PM EST
                  Reply

                  From the article:

                  The charges in Egypt included "intentionally committing acts to harm the unity of the country and peace of its land;" "calling to divide the country into small states on a sectarian basis and harming national unity;" and "using religion to promote extremist ideas resulting in religious division and disrespect [of] heavenly religion."

                  In other words, the crime of "Fitna" with a dash of blasphemy.

                  • 3 votes
                  Reply#16 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:01 PM EST

                  You mean The Ilegaly elected Muslim Obama and his ilk actualy Exterdieted these people How can this be Oh I forgot in the Evil of darkness your bull crap artist Lord And Saviour King Obama singed the provisons in the NDAA act on12/31/011 to cancel the Posse Comatatas act and a secret islam Ops force shuttled them out to Egypt?

                  And now want The Pastor in Amerca too This is a decleration of WAR from theise F creeps Bring to my Soil Please !

                    Reply#17 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:26 PM EST

                    ?????

                    • 1 vote
                    #17.1 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 4:47 PM EST

                    Woe is me, first off... congrats for picking an appropriate name. Secondly, you exemplify why tea party members should be ignored and outcast from our society. I know, it's a shame your folks let you drop out of school in the 8th grade but really that's not the fault of the rest of us who preferred to stay and get at least a high school education. Oh, and you might want to taper off of the juice a bit... it's causing you to sound like a Muslim extremist, with all of your senseless ranting and rhetoric.

                    • 1 vote
                    #17.2 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 11:58 PM EST
                    Reply

                    The religion of peace strikes again. The wonderful religion that is full of hate and bigotry.

                    • 7 votes
                    Reply#18 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:49 PM EST

                    Now we all know what was really discussed between POTUS and Egypt! Egypt is really being ruled by a true non-terrorist-non-Muslim President! What a bunch of BULL! {:-(}

                    • 1 vote
                    Reply#19 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:50 PM EST

                    Now we all know what was really discussed between POTUS and Egypt! Egypt is really being ruled by a true non-terrorist-non-Muslim President! What a bunch of BULL! {:-(}

                    • 1 vote
                    Reply#20 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:50 PM EST

                    Well, I guess if they are sentencing him and his fellows to death then the rest of us are off the hook right? I thought the muslims wanted all of us dead. What a relief. I still want all of them dead though. All of them.

                    • 3 votes
                    Reply#21 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 1:52 PM EST

                    What a bunch of "crazies".....I think no one should ever go to, visit, or do business with Egypt again so they can all just waste away in their own delusional beliefs.

                    • 5 votes
                    Reply#22 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:08 PM EST

                    Eat some pork. It will help you not to be so crazy.

                    • 5 votes
                    Reply#23 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:12 PM EST

                    Why is this news? I thought all infidels were already sentenced to death.

                    • 8 votes
                    Reply#24 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:23 PM EST

                    They, (Islam) sure doesn't have much going for it if all it takes to get them all stirred up is a stupid movie. We Christians have had many depicting Christ is all sorts of ways and no riots or killings or anyone sentenced to death. If their religion is that fragile and their whole society is based on this quasi religion then it would seem we have little to fear from them as they will self destruct with their various factions all purporting to have the real truth. So let's turn the Alawites and the Sunni and the Shia loose on each other. Plant rumors that the Sunni said their Muhammad was more holy than the Muhammad of Shia. Soon they will kill each other off.

                    • 5 votes
                    Reply#25 - Wed Nov 28, 2012 2:30 PM EST
                    Reply
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