Anti-Terrorism statement : A Call for non-violent resistance

In the Name of God, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful

As an Imam in America, I along with many other Muslim leaders throughout North America, strongly condemn and reject the actions of terrorists and terrorism especially those committed in the name of Islam and Muslims.

I support the FATWA (Islamic religious ruling) AGAINST TERROR and have adopted the MPAC National Anti-Terrorism Campaign Handbook and follow and implement MPAC’s guidelines.

"Islam, the religion of tolerance, holds the human soul in high esteem, and considers the attack against innocent human beings a grave sin, this is backed by the Qur'anic verse which reads:

"Who so ever kills a human being for other than manslaughter or a capital offense, it shall be as if he has killed all mankind, and who so ever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind," (Quran: Al-Ma'dah:32).

I believe that those who commit acts of terror, murder and cruelty in the name of Islam are not only destroying innocent lives, but are also betraying the values of our faith. No injustice done to Muslims can ever justify the killing of innocent people, and no act of terror will ever serve the cause of Islam.

We repudiate and dissociate ourselves from any Muslim group or individual who commits such brutal and un-Islamic acts. We refuse to allow our faith to be held hostage by the criminal actions of a small minority acting outside the teachings of both the Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.

As it states in the Quran: “Oh you who believe, stand up firmly for justice, as witnesses to God, even if it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be against rich or poor; for God can best protect both. Do not follow any passion, lest you not be just. And if you distort or decline to do justice, verily God is well-acquainted with all that you do.” (Quran 4:135)

As the former chairman of The Council of Muslim Organizations (Greater Washington) I join with our local masjids, organizations and law enforcement agencies in the fight against violence and terrorism.

In addition, I am leading a global call to non-violent resistance.  This method is the only way to bring about peace, nuclear disarmament and justice in our world.  American Muslims must play a significant role in leading this call and must engage with other people of good to work to resolve the injustice in our world.