Updated 3 July 2013
The World Federation condemns recent attacks in Egypt
The World Federation strongly condemns the recent spate of violence in Egypt towards the minority groups such as Christians and, in particular, the recent brutal killing of the Shia Muslims. Also the World Federation notes, with great concern, the increased attacks on places of worship which fundamentally run contrary to the tenets of Islam.
The Egyptian society has always been rich in culture and sophistication. Its pluralistic society has always accepted and embraced diversity where communities live together in peace and harmony. It is therefore even more alarming that such killings of innocent people whilst in their congregations should be killed in broad day light.
Mr. Morsi, President of Egypt, must bring to trial the perpetrators of these heinous crimes and must take notice of the extremist forces who are attempting to divide the Muslim community.
At the same time we call upon the religious scholars of Al-Azhar to bring about greater understanding that can help bridge the gap between the various schools of thought, We remind the current scholars of the legacy of the great Al-Azhar scholar, Sheikh Mahmood Shaltoot, head of Al-Azhar University in 1959, who issued a fatwa recognizing the legitimacy of the Jafari School to which Shias belong. We also applaud the sentiments of Mustafa Al-Sawaheli, Arabic language and literature professor at Al-Azhar University that who stated “ ...... violating the rights of our religious brothers who have differences of opinion with us in religious matters is impermissible, let alone slaying them. "
The World Federation strongly believes that the sanctity of all human life, no matter what their faith or religion, must be respected and their lives protected from such abominable and vile acts.
The World Federation Media Committee
For further information contact:
The World Federation of KSIMC, Islamic Centre, Wood Lane, Stanmore, Middlesex, HA7 4LQ, United Kingdom
Tel: +44(0) 20 8954 9881
Fax: +44(0)20 8954 9034
secretariat@world-federation.org
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