Brilliant politicians, scientists, athletes and entertainers are the heroes of most societies. This is not the case in most of the Arab world which constantly glorifies murderers through television series, street signs and songs. “There is no greater honor than dying for Allah” is a common theme in many a song or series broadcasted in the Palestinian areas and other parts of the Arab world.

Palestinian Authority leaders have repeatedly honored Samir Kuntar, the murderer of a father and his daughter as a brave leader through state controlled media. from PMW: “He was sentenced to 542 years in prison for committing the brave Nahariya action in Palestine (note-Israel city of Nahariya is defined as ‘Palestine.’) [PATV, Aug. 18, 2004]

Kuntar infiltrated Israel from Lebanon in 1979 killing Danny Haran and his four year old daughter. Danny’s other daughter, Yael, suffocated while hiding in a small space with her mother. Kuntar was convicted of multiple murders and is serving several life sentences in an Israeli prison.

Last week he was granted an honorary citizenship by the Palestinian Authority.

Samir Kuntar