Nothing irritates religious extremists more than a woman being in control ─ and it could not be worse for the Islamic State (IS) in Iraq and Syria as a woman in hijab flew one of the fighter jets that bombed the terrorists on Thursday.
Some Arab nations, including UAE, joined the US in carrying out the strikes against IS in Syria, marking the first time they are taking part.
Major Mariam Al Monsouri (pictured) is the first female fighter pilot in the United Arab Emirates, and she successfully led a strike mission against the group.
“She is (a) fully qualified, highly trained, combat ready pilot, and she led the mission,” Yousef Al Otaiba told MSNBC’s Morning Joe.
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CNN spoke to Al Mansouri earlier this year about her work.
She said she had wanted to be a fighter pilot since she finished high school, but had to wait until women were allowed.
“At that time, the doors were not open for females to be pilots. So I had to wait almost 10 years for the decision to be taken,” Al Mansouri said.
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She stressed there’s no difference between men and women when it comes to defending their country.
“We are in a hot area so that we have to prepare every citizen,” Al Mansouri said.
“Of course, everybody is responsible of defending their country — male or female. When the time will come, everybody will jump in.”
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6 comments
Obirin-birin!!! Kaare o jare!
This is just sweet, what can I say? Massive unprecedented one there.
It’s all about profession, passion and the her love for humanity. Nigerian female should learn from this exemplary character. Kudos Girl!
Congratulation Major, ride on, we the real practicing Muslims in Nigeria are behind you, victory to the coalition against ISIS. Mariam is my mum’s name too, so I admire your courage.
she is a brave warrior I just pray she take it up
Good Woman! Please remove that hijab head covering. It’s incongruous with your work and attitude. Religion, science, warfare and reality do not go hand in hand.