Slideshow: Terry Jones burns Koran, two beheaded, 12 dead (photos, videos)
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On April 1, 2011, violence broke out in Afghanistan as a group of Muslims gathered in protest of Florida Pastor Terry Jones’ recent burning of the Koran. According to reports, approximately 2,000 protestors gathered outside a UN mission compound, in what began as a peaceful demonstration against Terry Jones March 20, 2011 Koran burning ceremony, when several protestors managed to take weapons away from UN guards. Report state that the enraged protestors broke into the building firing shots, set the building on fire, and beheaded two UN workers.
At the latest count, at least 12 people have been confirmed dead including the two who were beheaded. At least eight United Nations workers and four Afghan protestors were killed during the violent outbreak.
You may see a photo slideshow regarding the outrage regarding the Koran burning in the photo player to the left as well as a video report where Terry Jones is interviewed by the BBC and states he is not responsible for the April 1, 2011 violence in Afghanistan. Additionally, Terry Jones released a public statement through his organization “Stand up America Now.” The statement did not acknowledge any responsibility for the attack but instead demanded the U.S. government and United Nations demand accountability from Muslim nations for today’s attack.
"Our United States government and our President must take a close, realistic look at the radical element Islam. Islam is not a religion of peace. It is time that we call these people to accountability. We demand that our United States government stand up and speak out against these acts. These people must be called to justice.
"We demand action from the United Nations. Muslim dominated countries can no longer be allowed to spread their hate against Christians and minorities. They must alter the laws that govern their countries to allow for individual freedoms and rights, such as the right to worship, free speech, and to move freely without fear of being attacked or killed.
Important Links
BBC Interview with Terry Jones: “We Are Not Responsible” (April 1, 2011)
Florida Pastor Terry Jones releases statement on Afghan attack after Koran burning (April 1, 2011)
Dove World Outreach Center: International Judge the Koran Day
Website by Terry Jones that consists of his writings, live coverage of his Koran burning ceremonies
Official Stand up America with Dr. Terry Jones Facebook page
Photo Album from International Judge the Koran Day and Koran Burning
Official International Judge the Koran Day Facebook page with photos
Interview with Reverend Charles Williams II of King Solomon Baptist Church
Testimony of Ahmed Abazza (who served as prosecutor in Terry Jones’ mock trial)
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