BY: Syed Fawad Ali Shah
In recent days, the burning of the American flag on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., has sparked outrage and condemnation across the nation. In many countries, such an act is considered a severe crime, carrying harsh punishments. However, in the United States, incidents like these have become disturbingly common, highlighting deeper issues within the country’s immigration and security policies. The American flag symbolizes the nation’s identity, honor, and spirit. It represents the sacrifices of those who have fought and died to protect the freedoms and values that define the United States. The desecration of this symbol is an affront to all who hold these values dear. One cannot overlook the connection between these acts of disrespect and the policies that have allowed individuals with anti-American sentiments to gain citizenship. The United States Refugee Admissions Program, intended to provide sanctuary to those fleeing persecution, has, in some cases, admitted individuals who harbor ill will towards their new homeland. This is a glaring failure of the current immigration policies and security screenings. Visas have been granted to individuals from countries with histories of hostility towards the United States, raising concerns about the adequacy of the vetting process. America’s non-Muslim majority finds itself increasingly dealing with the implications of admitting individuals with extremist ideologies, including those with a jihadist mindset. This is not to suggest that all immigrants or refugees pose a threat, but rather that the current system fails to adequately filter those who might. The burning of the American flag is not just a symbolic act; it is an open challenge to genuine American citizens who love and respect their country. It dishonors the memory of American soldiers who have laid down their lives, draped in the very flag that was desecrated. In nations such as Iran, Russia, China, India, and Pakistan, flag burning is met with severe penalties, reflecting the gravity of such acts. The United States government must take decisive action. Those who engage in flag burning should be arrested and punished accordingly. If they are American citizens, their citizenship should be revoked. If they are immigrants, they should be deported. The failure to address these actions sends a dangerous message of tolerance towards disrespect and anti-American sentiment. In countries like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, and Kuwait, such acts of flag desecration would be met with the harshest of punishments, including death or life imprisonment. The strict laws in these countries deter individuals from committing such heinous acts, ensuring national symbols are respected. America, in its pursuit of freedom and human rights, has inadvertently allowed too much leniency, creating an environment where disrespect flourishes. The resettlement of millions of Afghans in the United States, while noble in its intent, also carries potential future risks. The American government must heed these warnings and take steps to tighten security screening standards for visas and refugee admissions. The future of America must be safeguarded by ensuring that those who are allowed entry do not pose a threat to its peace and stability. American citizens must wake up to their rights and the realities facing their nation. The time has come to preserve the values and freedoms that make America the land of opportunity and peace. The American government should archive this column as a testament to the growing concerns and potential threats that loom on the horizon. The responsibility to protect America’s future lies in the hands of its citizens and leaders. Only by improving and tightening security screening standards can the United States continue to be a beacon of hope and opportunity, rather than becoming a land plagued by the very threats it seeks to escape from.
The writer is a senior Journalist He can be reached at pmpk55@hotmail.com
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