Salman Rushdie

Salman Rushdie was attacked by an American Muslim at a literary event in the summer, losing an eye and the use of one hand.

Rushdie's upcoming novel takes the form of a translation of a mythical epic about the Vijayanagara Empire that ruled over much of southern India in the 14th century.

The US Treasury Department said it had designated the Iran-based 15 Khordad Foundation a Specially Designated Global Terrorist for placing a $3.3 million bounty on Rushdie.

Wylie described the author's wounds as "profound," and noted the loss of sight of one eye. "He had three serious wounds in his neck.

Despite the decades-long Iranian campaign to murder Rushdie, the American response has been curiously muted.

None of the readily available evidence of state-sponsored violence seems to have factored into how the American press and the White House are choosing to present the attack on Rushdie.

Iran’s barbarity is real, its antisemitism concrete and its threat to the West tangible. When Khomeini said three decades ago that he wanted Rushdie dead he meant dead, six feet under.

"There are texts in the Islamic religion that are opposed to violence. Explicit texts,” said Dr. Muhammad bin Abdul Karim al-Issa, hoping other leaders follow.

Nader Hashemi, Director of the Center for Middle East Studies at the University of Denver, said Rushdie's attacker may have been convinced to commit the attack by a Mossad agent.

BEHIND THE LINES: The man who stabbed Salman Rushdie last week supported Iran which had issued a kill order against Rushdie.

Endless patience and restraint will not improve America’s safety. Strong punitive action is needed to deter the leaders in Tehran.