THE ISSUE: Muslims’ opposition to the knighting of controversial author Salman Rushdie.

I see progress in the Islamic world – Muslims are now outraged at the queen of England and author Salman Rushdie (“Rushdie Has a Big Night,” June 19).

That’s a step up from their outrage over the Danish cartoons.

Ann Rychlenski
Ozone Park

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Fanatics feel they have been insulted, and, as we all know, insults cause a much deeper pain than, say, beheading.

I don’t know if Rushdie is worthy of knighthood, but if the Brits withdraw now, it will be another line in the sand for the fanatics’ side.

They should mind their own business, worry about the ills in their own countries and stay out of Britain’s affairs.

I hope the Brits do not give in.

Toni Rock
Hauppauge

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Exactly what did Rushdie do to deserve knighthood? All I remember him doing was insult Mohammed and Western civilization.

If that’s grounds for knighthood, I deserve one, too – and maybe even sainthood.

Charlie Honadel
Staten Island

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Yet again, the Muslim world is offended, this time by Rushdie’s knighthood.

Its reactions are so predictable: If it offends, cut it, burn it, blow it up and tear it down. Destruction is a core doctrine.

Extremist Muslims will always be offended by something we do, but primarily by the essential fact that we are not one of them.

Wayne Olson
Baghdad