Iraq-Born Islamic Cleric On Trial In Norway

February 15, 2012

The Iraqi-born Islamic cleric Mullah Krekar has gone on trial in Norway.

Krekar, whose real name is Najmeddine Faraj Ahmad, is accused of making death threats, most notably against a former Norwegian government minister.

Krekar is also accused of criminal incitement over remarks to a U.S. television network in 2009, when he called for attacks on U.S. soldiers in Iraq.

Krekar is the founder of radical Iraqi Kurdish Islamist group Ansar al-Islam.

Norway's deportation process for him began in 2003, but has yet to be carried out since Norwegian law prevents him from being deported to Iraq until his safety can be guaranteed or as long as he risks the death penalty.

Compiled from agency report

Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/iraq-born_cleric_on_trial_in_norway/24485107.html

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