In three languages, the Grand Imam denounces the claims that Islam is terrorist, describing such claims as “ignorance-driven provocation, a call for hatred and a lapse into medieval barbarism”
The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Prof. Ahmad At-Tayyeb, denounced describing Islam as terrorist through repeated use of the term "Islamic terrorism", stressing that this indicates ignorance of the principles of this true religion that calls for peace. He thus posted on his social media, Facebook and Twitter, accounts - in Arabic, English and French - “Describing Islam as terrorist reveals ignorance of this true religion, a risk that does not take into account respect for the belief of others, an explicit invitation to hatred and violence, a return to medieval brutality, and a hateful provocation to the feelings of nearly two billion Muslims.” This post comes in response to statements by some French officials who accused Islam of terrorism, after an accident that took place in the French capital, Paris, last Friday, when a history teacher was killed after displaying offensive pictures of the Prophet of Islam (pbuh).
Al-Azhar had already condemned the killing earlier, stressing at the same time its constant call to renounce hate speech and violence whatever its form, source or cause may be, stressing the necessity of respecting religious sanctities and symbols, and avoiding inciting hatred by insulting religions. It also calls for the necessary adoption of a global legislation that criminalizes insulting religions and their sacred symbols. Finally, it invites all to maintain religious morals and teachings which emphasize respect for the beliefs of others.