This is with reference to the article “Paris attacks: A wake-up call to the world” (Nov. 16) by Sabra. S. Jawhar. I do agree with every word of the article. Instead of blaming one religion or its followers for the current wave of terrorism, the West should realize that Muslims are also on the receiving end. A coordinated strategy to root out the menace of Daesh is very important. Daesh is spreading like a plague and needs to be confronted with an iron fist. The western governments in coordination with Muslim countries should launch an offensive in Syria to weaken this group by eliminating its power base.

Instead of discussing Assad’s future and wasting time, the world should act swiftly by removing the Syria dictator and putting Syria under the UN mandate and attack Daesh bases across Syria. The delay on part of the world will only strengthen this evil group. The Arab world should also adopt a proactive approach by forming a joint army. The formation of a joint Arab army is of great importance to restore law and order in the region. Due to Iranian interference in the Arab world, many Sunni tribal militias have been forced to take up arms to counter Iranian-backed elements. Those militias could ally with the Arab army and play a positive role in bringing peace to the restive Middle East.

The entire world is talking about Syria and the issue of Libya has been put on the back burner, as if nothing is happening there. Libya has also become the hotbed of terrorists with militias calling the shots in the war-torn country in the absence of a central authority. There is a great need to take simultaneous action in both countries so as to ensure putting an end to this menace. Daesh is spreading its ugly tentacles swiftly across continents, which should be a big reason to worry. The world has talked much, now it is time to take action.

Raja Farhan

Jeddah