Leeds Muslim Council unreservedly condemns yet another murder of a US journalist, Steven Sotloff.
The depraved acts of pseudo ‘Islamic State’ including beheading, murdering of civilians and journalists, enslaving of women and children of their opponents, persecution of minority groups are absolutely contrary to the teachings of Islam.
Imam of award winning mosque, Makakh Mosque, Dr Qari Asim said: “ISIS or IS neither speak for Islam nor their poisonous ideology is shared by billions of Muslims across the globe.”
“In the last few weeks, we have witnessed horrific and barbaric acts of murder and persecution. It is disgusting to note that perpetrators of such abhorrent acts are claiming to be murdering people in the name of a religion.
There is no room for any argument or suggestion that this type of callous, cold murder of journalists is in any way justified in or ratified by the teachings of Islam.”
It is a moral obligation on British Muslims to actively oppose IS poisonous ideology, especially when this is promoted within Britain, which betrays the principles of Islam.
“The heinous crimes of IS must not be allowed to destabilise the good relationships that exist between different faith groups in Britain. Rather, this is precisely where the relationships we have built up can help us defeat extremism and create stronger communities.” said Imam Qari Asim
We call on everyone to stand united against psychopathic violence and not let acts of hatred or terrorism divide our communities.
Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Steven Sotloff and other victims of brutality of IS. They will remain in our thoughts and prayers at this extremely distressing time.
For further details, please contact us on @LeedsMosque or @QariAsim
