Our Stance on Terrorism
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We reject
terrorism because it is against the tenets of Islam. Whether the
victims of terrorism are Muslims or non-Muslims, whether it is committed by
individuals, a body or a government, all of these acts of violence run counter
to Islam, the religion of peace. The issue of terrorism cannot be addressed by
another act of terrorism, resulting in the displacement and killing of innocent
people.
Shaykh Ibn Bazz, the Muftee of Saudi Arabia, said regarding a group called Jamaa’at ul-Jihaad that is involved in terrorism and suicide bombings, “…they are not to be co-operated with, nor are they to be given salutations. Rather, they are to be cut off from, and the people are to be warned against their evil. Since they are a fitnah(tribulation/trial) and are harmful to the Muslims, and they are the brothers of the Devils (Shayateen)”
It is imperative to draw a line between resistance to aggression and terrorism. The resistance on the part of the Muslims in Palestine, Kashmir, Chechnya and other places to liberate their land, defend their honor as well as property, and achieve their legitimate rights cannot be construed as terrorism. Rather, it is the responsibility of the international community to help a just struggle in the realization of its goal.
We strongly condemned the attack on the US on September 11, 2001, however we strongly believe that the Western world itself is to blame for the events resulting from its unjust policy toward the Muslim world for more than a century., That policy has as its main elements colonization of the Muslim world, unstinted support to the Israeli occupation of Palestine, distortion of Islamic teachings, support for aggressive forces and use of international organizations against Muslims among other things.
There are glaring examples of injustice and rank prejudices against members of the Muslim community. We watch with deep concern the generally biased attitude of the West, both at the official and medial levels against Muslims and Islamic charitable institutions and associations. We condemn the distortion of Muslims’ image and linking Muslim individuals, institutions and communities or government with terrorism. We totally reject the version of the official authorities and the media in the US as well as other countries labeling some businessmen as supporters of terrorism. It underlines the importance of strengthening economic co-operation between Muslim and other countries to protect the interests of Muslim investors, their assets and trade establishments.
The Muslims in the West should firmly adhere to their religion. Victory will come with patience and perseverance, as Allah says: “Surely, along with every hardship is relief.” They should utilize the situation for introducing Islam to non-Muslims, explaining the legitimate issues, defending themselves, their communities, institutions and seeking redress of their legitimate grievances. We should work for bridging the gap between words and actions, between precept and practice, in the country where we live.
Muslims should always take decisions in the light of Islamic teachings. Allah says “O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah as just witnesses; and let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just: that is nearer to piety.”
Shaykh Ibn Bazz, the Muftee of Saudi Arabia, said regarding a group called Jamaa’at ul-Jihaad that is involved in terrorism and suicide bombings, “…they are not to be co-operated with, nor are they to be given salutations. Rather, they are to be cut off from, and the people are to be warned against their evil. Since they are a fitnah(tribulation/trial) and are harmful to the Muslims, and they are the brothers of the Devils (Shayateen)”
It is imperative to draw a line between resistance to aggression and terrorism. The resistance on the part of the Muslims in Palestine, Kashmir, Chechnya and other places to liberate their land, defend their honor as well as property, and achieve their legitimate rights cannot be construed as terrorism. Rather, it is the responsibility of the international community to help a just struggle in the realization of its goal.
We strongly condemned the attack on the US on September 11, 2001, however we strongly believe that the Western world itself is to blame for the events resulting from its unjust policy toward the Muslim world for more than a century., That policy has as its main elements colonization of the Muslim world, unstinted support to the Israeli occupation of Palestine, distortion of Islamic teachings, support for aggressive forces and use of international organizations against Muslims among other things.
There are glaring examples of injustice and rank prejudices against members of the Muslim community. We watch with deep concern the generally biased attitude of the West, both at the official and medial levels against Muslims and Islamic charitable institutions and associations. We condemn the distortion of Muslims’ image and linking Muslim individuals, institutions and communities or government with terrorism. We totally reject the version of the official authorities and the media in the US as well as other countries labeling some businessmen as supporters of terrorism. It underlines the importance of strengthening economic co-operation between Muslim and other countries to protect the interests of Muslim investors, their assets and trade establishments.
The Muslims in the West should firmly adhere to their religion. Victory will come with patience and perseverance, as Allah says: “Surely, along with every hardship is relief.” They should utilize the situation for introducing Islam to non-Muslims, explaining the legitimate issues, defending themselves, their communities, institutions and seeking redress of their legitimate grievances. We should work for bridging the gap between words and actions, between precept and practice, in the country where we live.
Muslims should always take decisions in the light of Islamic teachings. Allah says “O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah as just witnesses; and let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just: that is nearer to piety.”