What does Islam mean?
Like all the other religions of God, Islam (Submission in English) promotes peace, love and harmony among the people. Actually the word "Islam" in addition to meaning submission (to God), also, is derived from the Arabic word Salaam (peace). The Muslims (Submitters) greet other people by saying Salaam (Peace be upon you). "O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant. " [49:13]
Islam has always been promoting and working for peace. Peace and mutual agreement has always been advocated over aggression. The relations of Muslims with others are primarily based on peace, mutual respect and confidence. The theme in the Quran is peace as long as there is no oppression or injustice that cannot be solved by all the peaceful means. Islam refuses the killing of innocent people, irrespective of the cause, be it religious, political , social or for any beliefs. Quran, the Muslims holy book declares it clear; [6:151] "...... You shall not kill - GOD has made life sacred - except in the course of justice. These are His commandments to you, that you may understand." [17:33] "You shall not kill any person - for GOD has made life sacred - except in the course of justice. If one is killed unjustly, then we give his heir authority to enforce justice. Thus, he shall not exceed the limits in avenging the murder; he will be helped."
Quran re-literates what God commanded the people of the Old Testament, a command that has to be uphold by any TRUE Muslim who should believe in the previous scriptures;. [5:32] "......, we decreed for the Children of Israel that anyone who murders any person who had not committed murder or horrendous crimes, it shall be as if he murdered all the people. And anyone who spares a life, it shall be as if he spared the lives of all the people. "
Islam condemns the killing of people merely because they embrace a different religion. It does not allow Muslims to fight against those who disagree with them on religious questions. It urges the Muslims to treat such people kindly and equitably: [2:256] "There shall be no compulsion in religion". [60:8]"GOD does not enjoin you from befriending those who do not fight you because of religion, and do not evict you from your homes. You may befriend them and be equitable towards them. GOD loves the equitable." [8:61]"If they resort to peace, so shall you, and put your trust in GOD. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient." [4:90]"...... those who join people with whom you have signed a peace treaty, and those who come to you wishing not to fight you, nor fight their relatives. Had GOD willed, He could have permitted them to fight against you. Therefore, if they leave you alone, refrain from fighting you, and offer you peace, then GOD gives you no excuse to fight them."
The foregoing explains why Islamic nations retaliate when they are terrorized. They do not initiate terrorism, only seek justice by retaliating when justice is denied by the perpetrators.