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Attacks a betrayal of Islam, says imam

Atrocious acts: a Mali trooper assists a hostage, centre, to safety from the Radisson Blu hotel after gunmen attacked the building in Bamako, Mali on Friday. Inset, resident imam Basim Muwwakkil. (Photograph by Harouna Traore/AP)

Bermuda’s Muslim community has condemned the recent spate of terror attacks in Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

Basim Muwwakkil, the resident imam of Masjid Muhammad, said the “savage behaviour against innocent humans” was inconsistent with the principles and values of Islam.

In a statement he said: “We also offer prayers and condolences to the families of the victims who suffer the loss of their loved ones in such atrocious acts.

“While Isil has claimed responsibility, it is our position and it does not matter who the attackers are, such conduct is criminal, inhumane and a betrayal of the practices and teachings of Islam and Prophet Muhammad.

“Irrespective of their situation or condition, no human being or community should be subjected to such treatment.

“We ask the people of France, Kenya, Lebanon and Egypt, who have been on the receiving end of this violence, not to retaliate with more violence in an effort to avoid the loss of more innocent life.”

The imam urged religious leaders to exercise and encourage “self-restraint, love, peace, patience, compassion and concern for all human life”.

His comments come after more than a week of bloodshed that has resulted in hundreds killed in terror attacks across the globe.

Letter to the Editor, page 4