Saudi comedy mocks fundamentalists

Since I recently posted on how Muslims/Arabs should tolerate humor at their expense, it seems only fair to point out this popular Arab show that pokes fun at their own extremists. This is exactly what they need. And it comes from the Saudis, no less.

Earlier this week “Tash” devoted its hour-long program on extremism. In one segment, titled “Terrorism Academy” (based on the popular programs like “Star Academy” where people compete before a panel of judges [editor's note: we call this "American Idol"]) the host, a Lebanese woman in a flirtatious evening gown, awards the winner a belt of explosives.

Of course, it's not all fun and games over there.

According to some Jeddawi residents, the show has been attacked by local imams. One resident said a preacher strongly criticized the show’s producers on a cassette sermon being distributed: “The preacher said ‘May Allah throw them into hell’.”

On the other hand, there are the supporting crowd who argue what was said is nothing but the truth.

“We control our own image, not the West. The show was making fun of terrorists by satirizing their warped perceptions of Islam. I think the show was a defense of Islam, personally,” said Abu Nasser, adding that Saudis should have more of a sense of humor about issues that affect their lives.

This is very healthy for Muslim/Arab society. A strong adaptable society is one which allows unfettered mockery. Here's another article with more detail about the show's skits.


And in other news, AL Qaeda has a 94% disapproval rating in Iraq. If you merely scratch the surface on Middle Eastern affairs, you'll see that they're not all about "death to the infidel" and all that. The majority are normal peaceful people over there.

Hopefully this post dispells at least some Islamophobia anyone was harboring. That said, it doesn't bother me at all if our guys torture an honest to god terrorist. Fuck them, I always say.