Terrorism: Rooted in U.S. — Saudi alliance

We send prayers and sympathy to the people of Manchester. But that is not enough to stop terrorism.

Our economy is based on perpetual war. When President Trump signs a $109 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia to create “jobs jobs jobs” in America, we have a problem.

Perpetual war needs perpetual enemies. The Saudis create them, not only channeling U.S. arms to the Islamic State, but funding radical madrasas worldwide and teaching the hateful Wahaabi doctrines. These teachings radicalize alienated immigrants like the suicide bomber in Manchester.

Wahaabis not only disdain the West, democracy and women, but also moderate Muslims. They promote the rape culture of IS. Violence against women is central to Wahaabism.

Yet it is the official state religion of the world’s richest, most powerful Islamic nation, which is also our chief Arab ally. Both Republican and Democrat presidents sustain this unholy U.S.-Saudi alliance to create an excuse for war.

To root out terrorism, stop electing politicians who are in the pockets of U.S. arms manufacturers.

This story was originally published June 2, 2017 at 5:54 PM with the headline "Terrorism: Rooted in U.S. — Saudi alliance."