NEWS

His Excellency Dr. Qutb Mustapha Sano, member of the Muslim Council of Elders, former Minister of Religious Affairs, Minister of International Cooperation, former Diplomatic Advisor to the President of Guinea, and Secretary-General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy in Jeddah, stressed the importance of uniting the Muslim Ummah and reconciling its people in the face of contemporary challenges that seek to divide them and impose a specific culture. 

In the third episode of the “One Ummah” program, which airs on the Muslim Council of Elders’ social media platforms throughout Ramadan, His Excellency stated that the Muslim Ummah is confronting numerous intellectual, social, political, and economic challenges. These require unified efforts to overcome. This can be achieved by raising generations capable of turning these challenges into opportunities and using modern technologies positively and beneficially for the Ummah.

The member of the Muslim Council of Elders further explained that unity within the Ummah is also about distancing itself from extremism and radicalism and upholding the values of mutual understanding and coexistence. This was the main focus of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference, held in Bahrain last February, which called for the unity of the Ummah based on the shared belief that those who pray our prayer, face our Qiblah, and consume our halal food are indeed Muslims.

Dr. Qutb Sano urged the members of the Ummah to move beyond past historical conflicts in which current and future generations were not involved, citing Allah’s words: “That was a community that had already gone before. For them is what they earned and for you is what you have earned. And you will not be accountable for what they have done.” (The Quran, 2:141). This, he emphasized, is crucial for the Ummah to restore its unity, leadership, and distinctiveness.

For the third consecutive year, the Muslim Council of Elders in Southeast Asia, headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia, is organizing the radio program “With the Elders” on Radio Elshinta, one of Indonesia’s most renowned stations. This initiative aligns with the Council’s efforts, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, to promote the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence.

The program features a distinguished group of scholars and intellectuals, including His Excellency Professor Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab, a renowned exegete of the Qur’an, member of the Muslim Council of Elders, and former Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, alongside His Excellency Professor Dr. Nasaruddin Umar, the current Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia. The program also features Dr. Ulil Abshar Abdalla, Deputy Chairman of Nahdlatul Ulama, Dr. Syafiq Mughni, Deputy Chairman of Muhammadiyah for International Relations, Dr. Muhammad Cholil Nafis, Chairman of the Indonesian Ulema Council, Dr. Iffatul Umniati, Professor at Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University Jakarta, Dr. Muhammad Zain Al-Majid, a member of the Executive Office of the Muslim Council of Elders, as well as a distinguished group of scholars and researchers.

The program focuses on human and ethical values, particularly those related to the holy month of Ramadan, while striving to promote a balanced and enlightened understanding of Islam. By fostering principles of tolerance and coexistence, it contributes to constructive dialogue and the dissemination of moderate Islamic awareness among all segments of Indonesian society.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, welcomes the recommendations of the emergency Arab summit, the Summit for Palestine, hosted by the Arab Republic of Egypt. The summit affirmed the adoption of the Egyptian plan for the reconstruction of Gaza without the displacement of its residents and without compromising the fundamental principles of the Palestinian cause.

His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, expressed the Council’s support for the final communiqué of the summit, which has resolutions reiterating that the Palestinian cause remains the central issue for the Arab world and for all nations and peoples yearning for peace. The statement also rejects all attempts to undermine the rights of the Palestinian people and supports efforts to uphold the ceasefire in its second and third phases, leading to a permanent cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from the Gaza Strip, including the Salah al-Din (Philadelphia) Corridor. Furthermore, the statement stresses the need to allow the unimpeded entry of humanitarian and relief aid and to find a just resolution to the Palestinian cause.

The Council also commends the summit’s recommendations calling for the full implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, including all its provisions. It further demands the complete withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from Lebanon to internationally recognized borders while reaffirming support for Lebanon’s security, stability, and sovereignty. Furthermore, the Council strongly condemns Israeli attacks on the Syrian Arab Republic and calls on the international community and the United Nations Security Council to take immediate action to enforce international law, compel Israel to halt its aggression, and withdraw from all occupied Syrian territories.

The Muslim Council of Elders reiterates its support for Arab and Muslim nations’ efforts aimed at achieving a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian cause, ensuring the Palestinian people’s right to establish their independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital. The Council categorically rejects any attempts to forcibly displace Palestinians from their land—whether within or beyond their territories—under any pretext, circumstance, or justification. It calls for an end to the suffering of the Palestinian people, which has persisted for more than 70 years, as a vital step towards fostering peace and stability in the region and the world.

For the second consecutive year, as part of fulfilling its commitment to fostering peace and propagating the values of dialogue, tolerance, and coexistence, the Muslim Council of Elders, led by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, has deployed numerous religious convoys across the globe. These initiatives during the holy month of Ramadan aim to promote moderation, balance, and enlightened Islamic thought.

These convoys involved over 32 Quran reciters and preachers who were sent to nine countries including Spain, Italy, Germany, Kazakhstan, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, and the United States. Their responsibilities include leading prayers, reciting the Holy Quran, and conducting a range of lectures, sermons, and religious seminars. The objective is to strengthen connections with Muslims worldwide, enhance their religious awareness, encourage their positive integration within their societies, and shield them from extremist ideologies and the threats posed by violent and terrorist groups.

 
The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, noted that in response to the significant success of these missions last year, efforts were made to increase the number of envoys this year. Additionally, recognizing the important role of women, for the first time, several female preachers were dispatched to enhance engagement with Muslim women and provide them with accurate religious information and values, aiming to nurture generations equipped to promote tolerance, coexistence, and peace.

The Muslim Council of Elders is dedicated through its varied programs, activities, and initiatives to connecting Muslims with the foundational aspects of their faith and creed, fostering a correct understanding of Islam, and preserving their Islamic identity. This includes deepening their grasp of Islamic religious values and traditions and how these can be applied in daily life. The Council also emphasizes educating on ethical strategies to address challenges faced by Muslims worldwide and combating all forms of bigotry, extremism, racism, discrimination, and Islamophobia.

Wilton Park, an esteemed forum for international dialogue, organized a high-level event titled “The Role and Responsibility of Religious Leaders in Times of War, Atrocities and Polarisation” from February 17–19, 2025, in the United Kingdom. The event gathered religious leaders, policymakers, and global experts to explore how faith communities can address escalating conflicts, hate speech, and division worldwide. H.E. Adama Dieng, Special Adviser to the Muslim Council of Elders, delivered powerful introductory remarks, urging a redefinition of faith-policy collaboration amidst global turmoil.

During his speech, Dieng questioned, “Is there a need for a reset in the relationship between faith actors and policymakers?” He pointed to hotbeds of tension, battlefields and deadly attacks while underscoring the urgency of religious leadership. Drawing on interfaith values, he cited the Noble Qur’an—“Believers are brothers. Establish harmony between your brothers, and fear Allah, so that you may be shown mercy” (Alhujurât, verse 10).

Highlighting practical successes, Dieng also praised the Faith Pavilion at COP 28 and 29 in Dubai and Baku respectively, stating, “We have witnessed firsthand how faith-based engagement is reshaping the global dialogue on critical issues, from climate ambition to peacebuilding.” He outlined its impact in “bridging divides” and “advocating faith-based approaches.” Dieng also noted his participation in Bahrain’s Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of the Kingdom of Bahrain and His Eminence Dr. Ahmad Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders which aimed at strengthening the role of religious and academic authorities against hate speech. Dieng also emphasized that ethical leadership is a catalyst for achieving the hope and aspiration of Africa for positive peace and sustainable development.

The event reinforced the Muslim Council of Elders’ commitment to human fraternity, aligning with Wilton Park’s legacy of fostering solutions to global challenges. Established in 1946 and part of the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Wilton Park has a distinguished history of convening diverse stakeholders—governments, NGOs, and faith communities—to address issues like conflict resolution and human rights,  while being a catalyst for innovative, inclusive strategies in an era of unprecedented crises.

The Muslim Council of Elders, chaired by His Eminence the Grand Imam Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Arab and Islamic nations—kings, princes, presidents, and peoples—on the occasion of the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan.

On this blessed occasion, the Muslim Council of Elders urges the Islamic nation to seize this virtuous month to reaffirm the values of unity, solidarity, and cohesion, standing together as one to strengthen the foundation of this nation. Ramadan unites us around many values such as solidarity, compassion, and mutual support, as a single, interconnected, and resilient nation, as Allah intended for us.

The Muslim Council of Elders also calls upon Muslims worldwide to make the most of Ramadan by increasing acts of goodness and obedience, renewing bonds of love, tolerance, and family ties, and fostering human solidarity. This includes meeting the needs of the poor and the needy and bringing joy to their hearts, for the Prophet (PBUH) was the most generous of people, and his generosity peaked during Ramadan.

The Muslim Council of Elders expresses its sincere wishes for peace and tranquility to prevail over the Islamic world and all of humanity, and for this blessed month to bless mankind with security, safety, goodness, and prosperity.

His Excellency Professor Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab, a member of the Muslim Council of Elders and former Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, emphasized that mercy should be the defining trait of a Muslim in all their interactions, situations, and attitudes—not only towards fellow humans but also towards animals and even inanimate objects. He pointed out that as we welcome the blessed month of Ramadan, we must strive to spread the values of mercy and compassion among one another.

Speaking in the first episode of ‘Humanitarian Values with the Elders,’ a program now in its third consecutive year, broadcast on the Muslim Council of Elders’ social media pages, His Excellency highlighted that Islamic law is fundamentally built upon mercy. He noted that the term “mercy” appears in the Glorious Qur’an no fewer than 250 times, with various meanings—ranging from Allah’s mercy towards humanity, and indeed all of creation, to His intrinsic mercy as part of His divine essence. He further distinguished between human mercy and the all-encompassing mercy of Allah.

His Excellency explained that, for humans, mercy is a state of compassion that compels them to feel the pain and suffering of others. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) commanded his followers to embody mercy in all circumstances. Allah Almighty states in the Glorious Quran “And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.” (The Quran 21:107) This verse carries profound meanings, among them that Allah—Who sent the Prophet and revealed the divine message—is the Most Merciful and the Most Compassionate, that the Prophet himself was sent as a mercy to all of humanity, and that this mercy must extend to all of creation.

During the month of Ramadan, the Muslim Council of Elders will present five diverse programs across its official social media platforms: Al-Imam Al-Tayyeb, Humanitarian Values with the Elders, Month of Harmonious Coexistence, One Ummah, and Our Ethics. This initiative aligns with the Council’s strategic vision of utilizing all available platforms to promote peace, foster dialogue, and spread the values of tolerance and human coexistence.

You can follow the Muslim Council of Elders’ official social media pages through the following links:

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His Eminence Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, received His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, at Al-Azhar headquarters.

The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar welcomed Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam to his home—Al-Azhar—remarking that he is a son of Al-Azhar who served the institution during a highly critical period with sincerity and dedication to his faith, country, and the institution itself. He emphasized that Al-Azhar receives him today with love and appreciation, reaffirming that his devoted efforts in serving Al-Azhar and promoting human fraternity at regional and global levels have never ceased since his tenure as an advisor to Al-Azhar, continuing through various prestigious roles and impactful global initiatives.

At the outset of the meeting, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam expressed his profound appreciation—and that of the Muslim Council of Elders—for the efforts of His Excellency Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt. He commended President El-Sisi’s unwavering stance in supporting the causes of the Muslim Ummah, particularly his honorable position on the Palestinian cause and his firm rejection of the forced displacement of the people of Gaza from their homes and homeland. He affirmed that this dignified Egyptian position is a source of pride, emphasizing that Egypt, our beloved homeland, always requires the unity and solidarity of its people to ensure its prosperity, progress, security, and stability.

Judge Abdelsalam expressed his deep honor and pleasure in visiting Al-Azhar headquarters, reminiscing about the ten years he spent as an advisor to the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. He stated: “I had the privilege of accompanying my esteemed teacher and Sheikh, His Eminence the Grand Imam, for over ten years during my tenure as his advisor. I learned immensely from his wisdom, and I have never encountered anyone more devoted than the Grand Imam in serving Islam, the nation, and humanity, nor anyone more committed to peace and upholding the truth. His dedication to this prestigious institution—entrusted by the Almighty Allah to preserve Islamic law and the Arabic language—is unparalleled. History bears witness to Grand Imam Al-Tayeb’s remarkable contributions as a globally recognized Muslim figure, championing the causes of Islam and Muslims, serving our beloved homeland, Egypt, and his tireless efforts in spreading the values of peace, fraternity, and coexistence. Under his leadership, Al-Azhar has witnessed an unprecedented transformation, achieving global prominence in disseminating the true, moderate message of Islam. His stance on various issues has garnered worldwide attention and admiration.”

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders further highlighted that the Grand Imam’s announcement of Egypt’s hosting of the second edition of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference, scheduled to be held at Al-Azhar next year, stems from Egypt’s leading role, its global stature, and its historical efforts in uniting the Muslim Ummah. He also noted that the Grand Imam has directed the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Association to commence preparations for this significant conference, particularly following the great success of the first edition, which was held earlier this month in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, welcomed Mr. Ammar Al-Hakim, Head of the Iraqi National Wisdom Movement, to discuss strategies for bolstering Islamic unity among all components of the Muslim Ummah. 

His Eminence stressed that unity is the sole pathway to revitalizing our Arab and Muslim nations. Consequently, the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference was launched in the Kingdom of Bahrain to harmonize the perspectives of Muslim scholars. He noted that the Ummah is currently grappling with a difficult situation that presents a substantial challenge, particularly emphasizing the profound distress experienced by Arabs and Muslims due to the extended conflict in Gaza, which has now persisted for over sixteen months. The Grand Imam further declared that the only resolution lies in uniting Muslims under a common cause, emphasizing that the time for division and discord has passed. He expressed profound surprise at the paradox of division without cause, saying, “It is profoundly astonishing that we find reasons to divide when there are none, while others find unity despite having no common ground. We must fiercely protect our unity, for the Muslim Ummah possesses shared values that can serve as a solid foundation for unifying our voices and standing as one.” His Eminence prayed for God to bless Muslim countries with peace and security.

During his reception of Mr. Ammar Al-Hakim, Head of the Iraqi National Wisdom Movement, His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, highlighted the robust connections between Al-Azhar, the Council, and Iraq. He observed that such visits yield significant benefits and mirror the activities undertaken during conferences like the recent “Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference,” which emphasized discussions and calls for unity. He reiterated that these efforts aim to positively influence the lives of Muslims and deepen the bonds of Islamic fraternity.

Mr. Ammar Al-Hakim expressed his gratitude and respect for the roles played by Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders, particularly regarding the Palestinian issue, commenting, “We consistently follow your esteemed statements and regard Al-Azhar as a beacon of moderation and balance, renowned for its advocacy on behalf of Muslim issues; this has always been our understanding of it. The Iraqi government and its religious leadership have maintained a unified stance on the Palestinian ordeal from its outset seventy years ago to the present. We value Egypt’s firm opposition to the displacement of Palestinians, which has been clear and valiant, as well as the profound Arab and Islamic solidarity.”

Mr. Al-Hakim also briefed the Grand Imam on the latest developments in Iraq, stating that the country is making rapid and steady strides toward stability and advancement. He proclaimed, “Thank God, we are experiencing ongoing recovery and stability across all fronts, notably in the political and security realms. Iraq has become a bustling workshop of reconstruction and development, and we are racing against time to ensure Iraq reaches its deserved prominence and respect. The diverse Iraqi populace eagerly anticipates your visit, valuing your significant Islamic stature. They deeply respect and follow your bold stances.”

During the holy month of Ramadan, the social media accounts of the Muslim Council of Elders will showcase five Ramadan-themed programs: “Al-Imam Al-Tayeb,” “One Ummah,” “Human Values with the Elders,” “Month of Harmonious Coexistence,” and “Our Ethics.” These programs are integral to the Muslim Council of Elders’ media strategy, aimed at leveraging every available platform to foster dialogue, peace, tolerance, and coexistence.

The program “Al-Imam Al-Tayeb” hosts His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders. In this series, His Eminence delves into the Most Beautiful Names of Allah, exploring their meanings, the significance of understanding them, and their impact on a believer’s behavior and interactions with others.

Building on the significance of dialogue for unity among all components of the Muslim Ummah and following the outcomes of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference hosted in the Kingdom of Bahrain under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the program “One Ummah” has been launched by the Muslim Council of Elders. The conference, attended by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, saw participation from over 400 scholars and thinkers from various Islamic schools of thought. It resulted in the release of ‘The Call of the People of Qiblah’ charter. The program “One Ummah” emphasizes the importance of dialogue, coexistence strategies among all components of the Ummah, the role of academic institutions and youth in advancing Islamic dialogue, and the challenges that such dialogue faces.

The program “Human Values with the Elders,” now in its third consecutive year, continues to explore the noble human values outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity. These include cooperation, human solidarity, dignity, peace, coexistence, justice, and equality. The program highlights their vital role in enhancing human life, fostering peace and harmony, and building cohesive and interconnected societies.

The program “Month of Harmonious Coexistence” delves into a variety of human values that are especially pertinent during the holy month of Ramadan. It features episodes that focus on the values of coexistence and tolerance, covering topics such as the jurisprudence of differing opinions, the etiquette of dialogue, managing differences, viewing differences as divine mercy, and utilizing diversity and differences to benefit the community and build nations, among other foundational human values that promote coexistence.

For the first time, in recognition of the critical role of ethics and education in shaping effective Islamic communities, the Muslim Council of Elders has launched the program “Our Ethics.” Inspired by the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who said, “I was sent to perfect good character,” this program is dedicated to instilling essential ethical values in the youth and future generations. Featured values include speaking kindly to people, assisting those in distress, encouraging good deeds, being a good neighbor, and other moral principles.

You can follow the Muslim Council of Elders on social media using the links below:

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https://www.muslim-elders.com/ar
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https://www.youtube.com/@MuslimElders
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