Letters | Return of ‘jihadi bride’ to UK would send out wrong message about terrorism
- If Shamima Begum were allowed to return home, it would suggest that joining murderous militant groups doesn’t have consequences
However, I, like many British citizens, believe that the decision of Home Office is absolutely ethical.
The return of Shamima Begum is too risky. When Islamic State carried out their bloody executions, the terrorists firmly believed that they were fighting for Islam. In TV interviews, she hasn’t shown regret for her action to join them. Also, the government must deliver a strong message to deter citizens from joining the vicious terrorist group. During the heyday of IS, many naive teenagers entered the IS-controlled region to fight for them and brought troubles to Europe. Even though they were not active fighters, they boosted the arrogance of the terrorists. If she can return to Britain as though nothing happened, this will be akin to telling Britons that joining terrorists in foreign countries may be tolerated.
Some may cite the “parable of the prodigal son” from Luke 15:11-32, which shows the greatness of forgiveness, and say that she deserves a little sympathy. We saw how hostages, prisoners of war and other victims were tortured and brutally killed by terrorists, however; can those innocent victims reunite with their families? If such tragedies happened to those advocating Begum’s return, could they have forgiven her?