ASSIGNMENT

Assignment

Assignment

Question 1:

The past several months have brought tremendous change to the Middle East, and it is most appropriate that we examine how a broad array of political, social, and economic transformations in the region may affect U.S. national interests, particularly as these interests relate to homeland security and counterterrorism. Concerns over terrorism underpin one of the most pressing questions surrounding U.S. and NATO involvement in Libya: whether the Obama administration and its European counterparts should more actively support rebel forces in their bid to depose Col. Muammar al-Qaddafi.

Another pressing issue in the Middle East is the instability in the economy. Social and political instability are undoubtedly having a negative impact in Middle Eastern countries. However, they also represent a unique opportunity for political and economic change and progress. Importantly, the Arab Spring has put the enduring weaknesses of Middle Eastern countries into the spotlight. Although high unemployment rates, rampant corruption, lack of government transparencies, lack of political representation and cronyism have been long-lasting problems in the region, the call of citizens for greater political and economic freedoms underscores the urgency of addressing those issues.

Question 2:

The Five Pillars of Islam are five basic acts in Islam, considered obligatory by Sunni Muslims. These are summarized in the famous Hadith of Gabriel. They are:

Shahadah is a saying professing monotheism and accepting Muhammad as God's messenger

Salat is the second pillar of Islam. Salat is obligatory on every adult sane Muslims 5 times a day during prescribed hours.

Zakat is the third most important pillar of Islam after as-Salat. It obligatory on all eligible Muslims as it was on nations before Islam.

Sawm is the fourth pillar of Islam. In Shariah term Fasting means abstinence during the day from eating, drinking and sexual intercourse.

The Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. In Arabic language, it means the intention of visiting the holy place. In Shariah term, it means visiting Holy Makkah for the purpose of performing worship and rituals prescribed under al-Hajj.

During the turn of the first millennium, the Shia developed as a distinct sect. The Shia employed more rituals in their religious ceremonies, similar to pagan practices, than Sunnis displayed. The religious and ideological differences between the Shia and Sunni sects seem relatively minor to those who are not of the faith. They have a different set of hadith or traditions and practice different forms of sharia. A significant difference is the Shia veneration of the institution ...