Palestinians have attacked five churches in Gaza and the West Bank, and the Iraqi insurgent groups are threatening an attack on the Vatican itself, as Muslim outrage continues in the aftermath of Pope Benedict's remarks last Tuesday.

Benedict has expressed regret, but that is not enough for Muslim leaders worldwide, who are demanding a full fledged apology from the Pope. Nothing less is acceptable to them, and none of them have done anything that even approaches condemning the violence or threats of violence by Muslim groups that are occurring.

What better example could there be of the intolerance of many in the Islamic world, and an almost fanatical dictatorial thought control, as well as a seemingly great need to stifle any free expression or dialogue about Islam and jihad, then this?

Those who value free speech, a free exchange of ideas, and the need for examination and dialogue about world religion and violence should tremble at what has happened over the last few days.