Author Charged With Defaming Islam

A judge ordered author Oriana Fallaci to face trial on charges of defaming Islam.

The case arose after Muslim activist Adel Smith alleged that parts of Fallaci's book, "The Strength of Reason," are offensive to Islam, such as a passage that calls Islam "a pool ... that never purifies," said Smith's attorney, Matteo Nicoli.

Fallaci, in her 70s, said she is accused of violating a law barring "outrage to religion." No date has been set for the trial in the northern town of Bergamo.