September 21, 2007

The Islamic Information Center condemns the recent call to violence by Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden. Recently, he called on members of his terrorist cell to attack Pakistani Government officials, to cause violence and unrest, and cause harm to innocent Pakistani individuals, regardless of whether they are Muslim or not.

The notion of hurting innocent individuals, or killing government officials because they do not follow a particular violent ideology, is completely abhorrent to the religion of Islam, and directly contradictory to the message of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Throughout the Prophet's lifetime, he constantly forbade the idea of any innocent person being harmed, and exhorted his followers to peace and diplomacy. Furthermore, it is not logically feasible that any one who wished to follow the ideals of Islam to insist that Muslims attack other Muslims.

Such a statement is especially deplorable in this part of the year, as Muslims begin the Holy Month of Ramadhan. According to Islamic teachings, Ramadhan is a time of peace and spiritual enlightenment, and Muslims are advised to focus their efforts on fasting, prayer, and good will to others. Spreading hatred, in such a Holy month, is definitely against the will of God, and contradictory to Islamic teachings.

IIC stands together to condemn all acts of terrorism as deplorable crimes against humanity, as they are completely reprehensible, and there is no legitimate reason for them to occur. Islam is a religion that advocates peace and tranquility amongst all people.

The Islamic Information Center, under the guidance of Imam Syed Naqvi, works to bring understanding among people of all faiths and background in an attempt to build bridges for the future to prevent hate crimes through education and tolerance. IIC also works to correct any misinformation about matters relating to the Holy Religion of Islam.