Thailand Only Feeds Muslim Discontent

When 84 unarmed Muslim demonstrators died in southern Thailand this week, Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra commended the anti-riot forces for their excellent work. The Prime Minister made no apologies, instead blaming the victims for their own deaths. This callous response may have serious international implications, argues the International Herald Tribune. Thailand is an integral player in the "War on Terror," and mistreatment of the Muslim minority will encourage fundamentalism. Growing unrest in Thailand's Muslim southern provinces provides impetus for recruiting militants in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The violent and insensitive treatment of Muslims by the Thai government is far more than a domestic issue, the article concludes, and must be met by a strong international reaction. – YaleGlobal