In response to the shocking and horrifying attacks on innocent victims in a multitude of countries witnessed in this month, the local Muslim community issues a statement of solidarity with the victims of terror attacks around the world, regardless of country, race, religion or political ideology. As humans and Muslims we consider all tragedies as more deserving of the world's sympathy and not to be considered "just a part of everyday life over there."
The signatories to the statement are:
- Mufti Liakoth Ali, Imam of Portsmouth Muslim Academy, Portsmouth
- Sheikh Muhammad Muhiuddin, Imam of Jami Mosque, Portsmouth
- Ali Ibrahimi, Chairman, Portsmouth Afghan Community
- Syed Aminul Haque, Chairman, Advisory Board, Jami Mosque, Portsmouth
- Nilofar Waltham, Chairperson, Al-Zahra Islamic Association, Southampton
- Mohammed Shamas Ahmed, Chairman, Central Mosque, Portsmouth
- Mohammad Hussein Amiry, President, Imam Ali Centre, Southampton Afghan Shia Association
- Sheikh Fazle Abbas Datoo, Imam of Al Mahdi Centre, Wessex Jamaat Community
The world has witnessed innumerable tragedies and sources of outrage in this single month, including – but sadly not limited to:
- the gun attack on Grand Bassam beach resort, the Ivory Coast
- the multiple attacks in Istanbul and Ankara, Turkey
- the bombing in Zaventem Airport and Maelbeek Metro station in Brussels, Belgium
- the suicide bombing of a soccer match at a stadium in Iskandariya, Iraq
- the recent bombing in Gulshan-i-Iqbal Park, Lahore, Pakistan
All these acts of terrorism are appalling and deserving of strong condemnation. We are deeply shocked and profoundly saddened at these horrifying acts of terror and violence perpetrated against innocent civilians. Our thoughts and prayers are for those killed or injured and their families.
The list of countries impacted by terrorism is seemingly becoming endless. There is absolutely no justification for such carnage whatsoever. As Muslims we are indeed immensely hurt by such violence. Any claim of committing acts of violence in the name of any faith is illegitimate. Let it be known that such brutality and cold blooded murder is barbaric, abominable and is definitely contradicting the pristine teachings of religion of Islam. One of the fundamental values of Islam is peace. The Islamic faith is a peaceful religion and the Noble Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent as a mercy for the universe. The perpetrators do not represent Islam or Muslims; their views are perverse and self-serving.
We urge all communities to stand together to oppose this despicable scenario with love and compassion. Let us continue to work towards establishing peace and harmony in the community and defy the terrorists whose only aim is to divide us. Let us all, as people of faiths and none, stand firm with compassion and solidarity.
30th March, 2016
For more information, please contact:
Fazle Abbas Datoo
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Resident Alim
Wessex Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat