Muslim solidarity linked to attack

VFW Magazine, August, 2003

Army Sgt. Hasan K. Akbar, accused of murdering two American officers and wounding 14 in Kuwait on March 23, was apparently motivated by his religion. Akbar threw grenades into three tents and then shot fleeing officers of the 101st Airborne Division.

According to recent testimony at a hearing made by investigator David Maier, "Sgt. Akbar had made spontaneous statements related to the incident stating that he had done this act because we American soldiers were going to kill and rape Muslims."

Witness Maj. Shawn Phillips testified, "They asked why he had done it and Akbar had said he had deliberately targeted the leadership of the brigade because we were going after Muslims." Akbar reportedly confessed to the crime to fellow soldiers immediately after.