""It does seem clear that Christians are persecuted in some countries, particularly the ancient Christian churches that existed in the Middle East since before Islam came to be. Does anybody disagree with that?""

No Joe, I don't think any of us disagree with that.

The reasons for taking Keith to task have to do with his constantly taking up an extreme and untenable position on any subject to do with interaction of Christians or Jews with Muslims.

His agenda is invariably to denigrate Muslims as a group, by highlighting every instance of aggression on their part, no matter at whom directed, while at the same time ignoring, or denying that they are suffering any aggression at others' hands.

When he makes one single post which exhibits any balance of viewpoint, I shall leave him alone, but please don't hold your breath while waiting for him to do that.

Don T.