Well, first of all, yes it is up to me and any other individual to decide that, as free and independent individuals.  And this is exactly the point Jerome and many of us are emphasising, that no one should be allowed to decide what we are allowed to say or do as long as it is within the legal framework of a society. By saying this you are depriving individuals their right to have an opinion and stating it.  I could illustrate this by saying who are you or any other individual (in this case Muslims included), to decide whether I am competent or even allowed to have an opinion on this matter?

The ban on depicting Muhammed is an Islamic ban and not a Universal one.  It is a religious ban and thus can not be expected to be upheld by non-Muslims or non-religious people.  You could, and often should, out of respect, refrain from doing such a deed, but you can not be forced to silence through violence or threats of violence.

As for the motivations behind this whole issue it is pure speculations and, although rightwing extremists have some splendid times these days, not very fruitful to ponder over given the fact that we have no conclusive evidence pointing towards certain motivations.  

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