A University of Calgary engineering student is struggling to come to terms with the alleged murder of his countryman, a death which prompted his homeland to execute two convicted terrorists.
Abdulla Al-Rawabdeh says he was horrified by the January 3 footage of Jordanian pilot Lt. Muath Al-Kaseasbeh being fatally set ablaze inside a cage.
“To be honest, I watched the movie twice and it’s very, very hard to me and my tears, it’s without control,” said Al-Rawabdeh. “It’s tragic. It’s a hard time for all Jordanians.”
Muslim Al-Rawabdeh struggles to accept the ISIS message.
“ISIS does not represent Islam, does not represent the soul of Islam, does not represent the mercy of Islam.”
Al-Rawabdeh has lived in Calgary for four years but he continues to keep a close eye on the events unfolding in his homeland where his large family, including his 11 siblings, resides.
King Abdullah II, Jordan’s king, cut short his recent trip to Washington, D.C. following the release of the militant video purported to show Muath’s death.
Jordan has executed two convicted Al Qaeda terrorists, including a female suicide bomber, who had been incarcerated on death row following the release of the video. ISIS had previously attempted to arrange the release of the female prisoner in exchange for Muath.
University of Calgary political scientist Rob Huebert says it’s of no surprise a militant group is turning to shock value violence in an attempt to deliver its message.
“This is the issue we see with any terrorist group or insurgency,” said Huebert. “If you want to get the attention of the world, you have to do something that is increasingly gruesome and the bottom line is this tactic is unfortunately effective.”
Huebert adds Jordan’s swift method justice is likely to become commonplace as countries attempt to notify terrorists of the consequences of escalating violence.
For Al-Rawabdeh, the death of Muath is an attack on all Jordanians.
“Muath is not just of us, he is us.”
With files from CTV'S Chris Epp and The Associated Press
