[SantaGanstag]

WARNING:
before someone starts bashing at me for questioning Allah or being rational, please take note of the fact, that this question is for me to educate myself. I've searched Google and haven't found anything, so the only conclusion I have is to ask my question here.

if you're offended by these types of questions, then I suggest you not read further, but if someone is willing to help me out and clear my understanding, it would be appreciated. Jazak Allah Khair. Islam encourages to seek knowledge, and this is what I am doing. I am ridding my mind of doubts and in the same process learning about Islam. so please take the time to appreciate my interest and help me clear my doubts.

I understand that the Kufr (dis-believers) will be thrown into the hellfire.
But I have one question; why will Allah torture them for an eternity if he is merciful?

Eternal torture in the hell fire will last for thousands of years and beyond...that is a very long time, why will Allah torture them for so long?

I know there people who have done many bad things in this world and deserve the torture, but an eternity is an insanely long time for someone to endure. Islam is a peaceful religion but why should people endure such extreme and long amounts of torture? If muslims are peaceful, then why do muslims wish death upon the dis-believers and anyone who doesn't follow their Ummah or creed (i.e. Shi'ite) Is this really how muslims should be behaving? shouldn't we pray for everyone to go to heaven instead of fighting over different sects?

Once I can have this question cleared, Insha'allah I will better be able to understand why Allah has created Heaven and Hell.