(WASHINGTON DC - December 29, 2009) The Islamic Information Center strongly condemns the series of attacks against Shia Muslims around the world that have occurred on the Holy Event of Ashura. To learn more about Ashura, click here.


Preliminary reports indicate that there have been bombings in both Iraq and Pakistan, killing approximately one hundred innocent civilians on a day meant for prayer and meditation. In Bahrain and Yemen, the oppressive governments of both countries continued their lockdown against religious freedom, by silencing the media while they closed mosques and forbade prayer services.  Saudi Arabian Muslims remained in fear of their government's oppressive tactics, and secretly conducted prayer services in their homes to avoid persecution, arrest, and imprisonment.  Saudi Arabia event launched military attacks against foreign Shia populations.


These attacks are a horrific tragedy, and reminiscent of the original sacrifice of Prophet Muhammad's Grandson, Imam Husain, in which violent armies attacked peaceful travelers in an effort to perpetuate tyranny.  When the original attack against Imam Husain lead to his death, the death of the majority of his family members, and the imprisoning of small children and women, the event became a rallying cry for hundreds of millions of Muslims around the world to stand up against oppression. In this spirit, Ashura is commemorated as the reminder of the need for Muslims to stand united against oppressors.


Islam, as taught by the Holy Prophet and his family, strongly advocates peaceful dialogue and discussion and rejects violence. The Prophet Muhammad (May God Bless Him) condemned all forms of terrorism against all people. The individuals who perpetrated this attack blatantly acted against the teachings of Islam and humanity.

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.