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IONA Endorses the Imams Council of Michigan’s Statement on the Ongoing Violence in the Middle East

  • IONA
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[Warren, MI] — The Islamic Organization of North America (IONA) endorses the statement issued by the Imams Council of Michigan (ICM) regarding the ongoing violence and loss of innocent lives in the Middle East.
Imam Mustapha Elturk, Ameer of IONA and a dedicated member of the ICM, stands with the Council to express their profound sorrow and grief over the tragic loss of innocent lives in the ongoing conflict.
“The loss of innocent lives, including children, women, and civilians, is a tragedy that deeply saddens our hearts,” said Imam Elturk. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and all those who are suffering during this challenging time,” he added.
The Imams Council of Michigan’s Statement:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Ongoing Crisis in Gaza: A Call for Peace and Justice
(Detroit, MI, 10/13/2023) – The Imams Council of Michigan is deeply saddened by the ongoing violence in the Middle East and the tragic loss of civilian lives. Our hearts go out to the innocent Palestinian and Israeli civilians who have been affected by the recent events. We are especially concerned about the well-being and safety of the Palestinian people in Gaza, whose suffering under racial subjugation is [once again] being compounded by the Israeli war effort.
We acknowledge that the situation leading to this offensive is complex and multifaceted, and we urge all parties involved to consider the following factors:
1. Illegal Settlements: The issue of illegal settlements in the West Bank remains a significant point of contention. The approval of over 5,000 settlements under the current government has fueled tensions and clashes between Israeli soldiers, settlers, and Palestinians in the West Bank.
2. Al-Aqsa Mosque: The intrusion of Israeli settlers into the Al-Aqsa Mosque complex, one of the holiest sites in Islam, has been a source of deep concern and has resulted in heightened tensions.
3. Violence at Al-Aqsa: Ongoing confrontations at the Al-Aqsa Mosque involving peaceful worshippers and Israeli security forces have further escalated tensions.
4. Political Developments: Statements made by political leaders, such as the recent map presented by Prime Minister Netanyahu at the United Nations General Assembly, have raised concerns regarding the future of Palestine and the welfare of its people.
5. Gaza Blockade: The enduring 16-year blockade of Gaza by Israel and Egypt has had severe socio- economic consequences for its residents, causing immense hardship.
The cycle of violence in the region has persisted for decades, and the loss of innocent lives remains a painful reality. While we recognize the right of any people to self-defense when all peaceful means are exhausted, we firmly believe that the killing of innocent individuals, regardless of their identity, is unacceptable. Human lives are sacred, and their protection is of paramount importance.
A lasting and just peace in the region is the only path forward, one that guarantees security and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians. It is our sincere belief that the Israeli Government must engage in constructive dialogue with all relevant stakeholders to chart a course for lasting peace.
The Imams Council of Michigan stands in solidarity with the vulnerable Palestinian population, whose lives are continually threatened by unjust policies and the most recent blockade of food, water, fuel, and shutting off electricity in Gaza by the Israeli Government. We urge individuals, faith leaders, interfaith partners, and people of conscience to join us in advocating for the rights and dignity of all affected by this crisis. We call upon the international community to intervene and bring an end to the conflict. It is essential [that we raise our voices altogether] to insist on a resolution that prioritizes justice and peace.
As Americans, we are deeply concerned about how our tax dollars are being used to support actions that may violate human rights and international law. We call upon our government to be an arbiter for justice and take a principled stand that reflects the aspirations of both Palestinians and Israelis for a peaceful coexistence.
In closing, we offer our heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and our prayers for justice, peace, and the safety of all residents in the region.
END
IONA and the Imams Council of Michigan jointly call for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, urging all parties involved to prioritize the well-being of innocent civilians and work towards a lasting peace.
IONA’s mission is to transform its members and help transform the surrounding communities to righteous, God-fearing people, who collectively strive for the highest moral standard and constantly seek forgiveness from our Creator to earn His pleasure. We seek His compassion and mercy in this life and in the hereafter. We rejuvenate our soul through internal struggle and spiritual exercise in worship of our creator God. The strength of our belief in God gives us the courage to establish good and forbid evil, thus promoting a system of justice for all mankind.

About IONA

IONA's objective is to help the Muslims of North America understand and fulfill their divinely ordained obligations, in order to please Allah (SWT) and thereby achieve success and salvation in the Hereafter.

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