PRESS RELEASES

Secretary-General of Muslim Council of Elders: Humanity faces a pivotal moment in its collective fight against the climate crisis, requiring united commitment and transformative action

Secretary-General of Muslim Council of Elders: Local wisdom carries a rich heritage of traditional knowledge that can contribute to developing effective adaptation strategies

Secretary-General of Muslim Council of Elders: The Faith Pavilion has become a milestone at COP conferences, emphasizing that faith and science are complementary, not opposing forces

The Muslim Council of Elders participated in a panel discussion titled “From Policy to Implementation: How Religious Leaders Can Lead Local Adaptation Efforts,” organized by ‘Religions for Peace’ as part of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) which was held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, spans two weeks from November 12 to 22.

In remarks delivered on his behalf by Mr. Mohamed Bahr, Director of Strategic Planning at the Council, the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, emphasized that humanity stands at a pivotal moment in its collective fight against the climate crisis. This challenge demands a united commitment and transformative actions to achieve meaningful progress. He highlighted that the session’s theme reflects the critical role religious communities play in transforming ethical and moral values, rooted in compassion and stewardship of the Earth, into concrete and effective measures.

The Secretary-General underscored that religions have long been a powerful force for justice and the preservation of humanity and stressed the moral responsibility humanity bears to address environmental challenges and mitigate the disproportionate impacts of the climate crisis on the most vulnerable populations. Religious leaders, he explained, have a unique role as moral guides and trusted figures in their communities, enabling local populations—particularly those with limited resources and access to services—to respond effectively to climate challenges.

Judge Abdelsalam also highlighted the importance of supporting local wisdom, which carries a wealth of traditional knowledge that can contribute to developing effective adaptation strategies. He emphasized that solutions should be co-created with those directly impacted by climate change to ensure they are both effective and relevant. He also praised the ‘Faith Pavilion’ which is organized by the Muslim Council of Elders in collaboration with a global coalition of religious organizations, as a milestone in COP conferences. This pavilion has successfully united religious leaders, scientists, and policymakers to explore solutions to climate challenges. 

The Secretary-General concluded by stressing the need to transition from policy-making to implementation. He called on governments and international organizations to establish robust frameworks and policies while encouraging religious leaders to offer moral guidance and community outreach and that by working together, these stakeholders can form a powerful alliance that empowers communities to lead climate adaptation efforts effectively and decisively.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, expresses its solidarity with the Republic of India and the Indian people in the wake of the landslides in the state of Kerala, which have resulted in many deaths and injuries.

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims during this difficult time and wishes the injured a swift recovery.

Under the Chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, the Muslim Council of Elders expresses its solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and the victims of the seasonal flooding that affected the northwestern region of the country leading to tens of deaths and injuries as well as heavy damage and destruction. 

The Council extends its heartfelt condolences to the people of Afghanistan as well as the families of the victims, praying to the Almighty to grant the injured a speedy recovery.

Pray for His Eminence the Great Imam A.S. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayyib, Sheikh Al-Azhar Sharif, Chairman of the Council of Muslim Wise Men, with more satisfaction with Allah’s judgement and destiny, Sheikh Haza bin Sultan bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, who passed away yesterday, asking the Almighty to rest him with His mercy and great forgiveness.

His Excellency the Grand Imam offers sincere condolences to His Highness Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, and the sons of Zayed the noble, and the general uncle of Al Nahyan, and the brotherly people of the Emirates, urging the Mawli – Az wa Jall – to inspire the family of the deceased patience and solwan, {ِنَّا لِلّهِ وَلّهِ النَّا إ ِلَی ويهِ رَاجِعونَ}.

Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders offers condolences to the President of the UAE for the passing of Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, expresses with deep acceptance of Allah’s will the passing of Sheikh Hazza bin Sultan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who passed away yesterday. Praying that the Almighty envelope him in His vast mercy and forgiveness.

His Eminence the Grand Imam, extends his heartfelt condolences to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates as well as the Al Nahyan family, and the entire people of the United Arab Emirates. He invokes the Almighty to grant the family of the deceased patience and solace during these difficult times. To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return.

The Muslim Council of Elders, led by Al-Azhar’s Grand Imam His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, welcomes the UN Security Council’s adoption of a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan, leading to a durable and sustainable cessation of hostilities. The Council emphasizes the urgent need to increase aid and calls for the removal of all obstacles to its delivery.

The Council expresses hope that this decision will alleviate the ongoing suffering of innocent Palestinian civilians, which has persisted for over five months, resulting in thousands of civilian casualties and creating catastrophic humanitarian conditions. Hundreds of thousands have lost their homes and shelters, facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and necessities.

The Muslim Council of Elders urges the international community to press for and actively and urgently facilitate the delivery of medical, relief, and humanitarian aid to the Palestinians in Gaza. It calls for further decisive steps to permanently halt the aggression in Gaza, reaffirming its steadfast and unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people to establish a Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.

Under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, the Muslim Council of Elders, will officially inaugurate its Indonesian branch in the capial Jakarta. This launch coincides with the start of the conference ”Religions and Climate Change’ which is also being organized by the Council. The conference will see participation of 150 representatives from various religions in the Southeast Asian region, along with scholars, thinkers, and youth actively engaged in climate change issues. The primary agenda of the conference is to discuss the role of religions in addressing the negative impacts of climate change.

The Council’s Indonesian branch, based in Jakarta, aims to proactively engage with countries in the Southeast Asian region. This is set to be achieved through the implementation of numerous joint initiatives and projects aimed at spreading and promoting the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human fraternity.

The official launch of the Council’s branch in Indonesia also stems from the significant interest shown by the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar towards the Southeast Asian region, which is home to the largest population of Muslims in the world and is characterized by its unique geographical location and diverse religious, ethnic, and cultural composition.

Home to the world’s largest Muslim population, Indonesia stands as an exemplary model in terms of dialogue, tolerance, citizenship, and coexistence. The Muslim Council of Elders maintains several external branches in a number of nations including Malaysia and Pakistan. Additionally, the Indonesian branch has been operating virtually since 2021, with the aim of creating effective platforms for communication with various nations and regions worldwide. Its primary objective is to propagate the Council’s message, which is focused on promoting peace in both Muslim and non-Muslim communities, and disseminating the values of dialogue, tolerance, common coexistence, and human fraternity.

The Muslim Council of Elders is an independent international body chaired by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar. Established in Abu Dhabi in 2014, its aim is to promote peace in both Muslim and non-Muslim societies. The Council includes various Islamic figures known for their justice and moderation, and seeks to promote the values of tolerance, coexistence, and mutual respect among all people.

The Grand Imam: Al-Azhar is Responsible for Supporting Muslims in the West and Enhancing Their Positive Integration into Their Societies

The Grand Imam: We are willing to establish a center for teaching the Arabic language to support Muslim children in Germany in learning and mastering the language of the Quran

The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders Welcomes Training German Imams at the Al-Azhar International Academy for Imam and Preacher Training

Representatives of the Muslim Community in Germany: Meeting the Grand Imam, Considered the Foremost and Most Important Islamic Figure Worldwide, is an Honor for all Muslims in Germany

Representatives of the Muslim Community in Germany Commend Efforts by the Grand Imam in Rectifying Misconceptions About Islam

Representatives of the Muslim Community in Germany Affirm the World’s Need for the Document on Human Fraternity Amid Current Challenges

Representatives of the Muslim Community in Germany Welcome the Initiative of the Grand Imam to Establish an Arabic Language Center in Germany

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders has received a delegation of representatives from Muslim communities in Germany at his residence in Berlin. The meeting aimed to address critical issues facing Muslims in Germany and explore avenues to enhance the scholarly and advocacy support provided by Al-Azhar as well as facilitating positive integration into German society and presenting an accurate portrayal of Islam.

During the meeting, His Eminence emphasized that Al-Azhar is responsible of supporting Muslims in the West by intensifying communication with Muslim communities in Europe and Western countries as well as providing support and guidance in religious and advocacy matters. He further highlighted that Al-Azhar has established a global center for monitoring and issuing religious fatwas in 13 languages, which serves as a channel for Al-Azhar to engage with the rest of the world, particularly with Islamic centers and grand mosques in Europe.

The Grand Imam also welcomed the hosting and training of German imams at the Al-Azhar International Academy for Imam and Preacher Training which boasts a specialized curriculum designed by scholars of Al-Azhar to suit the nature of the German society. The academy also works on honing the skills of Imams to address issues pertaining to women, peaceful coexistence, acceptance of others, and positive integration within their communities.

Furthermore, His Eminence affirmed Al-Azhar’s readiness to increase the number of scholarships offered to Muslim children in Germany, enabling them to pursue higher education at Al-Azhar University, especially in Islamic and Arabic studies. He also noted that Al-Azhar is prepared to send young scholars to mosques in Germany and Europe to contribute to correcting misconceptions about Islam in the West. This goes with a willingness to establish a center for teaching the Arabic language to support Muslim children in Germany in learning and mastering the language of the Quran.

For their part, representatives from Muslim communities in Germany expressed their profound honor in meeting His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, considering it a privilege for Muslims in Germany and the Central Council of Muslims in Germany to meet with one of the most significant Islamic leaders. They also commended the efforts of the Grand Imam in rectifying misconceptions about Islam, as well as his support for Muslims living in the West, aiming to enhance the stability of societies and continued efforts to promote global peace, human fraternity, and peaceful coexistence.

The delegation also emphasized the world’s need for the historic Document on Human Fraternity, which was co-signed by His Eminence the Grand Imam along with His Holiness Pope Francis in Abu Dhabi in 2019. The delegation highlighted the document’s role in aiding Muslims living outside Islamic countries in positively integrating into their communities. They also praised the continued international interfaith dialogue led by the Grand Imam and Pope Francis, with the latest being the Bahrain Dialogue Forum, which was a shining example of peace-building efforts.

The delegation also conveyed their appreciation for the call of the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar to abandon the term “minorities” and to solidify the values of complete citizenship along with all its associated rights and responsibilities. They also welcomed the proposal put forth by His Eminence the Grand Imam to establish an Arabic language center in Germany and indicated their commitment to overseeing the necessary steps that would facilitate the implementation of this proposal, in close coordination with Al-Azhar.

The meeting was attended by the Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, along with a delegation of religious leaders representing the Islamic community in Germany, including Dr. Aiman Mazyek, President of the Central Council of Muslims in Germany, Dr. Abdul Samad Al-Yazidi, Secretary-General of the Central Council of Muslims in Germany, Dr. Abdelmalek Hibaoui, member of the Scholars Committee at the Central Council of Muslims in Germany, along with other prominent Islamic leaders, imams, preachers, and female preachers.

Council of Muslim Wizards chaired by His Eminence Imam Akbar A. D. Ahmed Tayeb, Sheikh Al-Azhar Sharif, Chairman of the Council of Muslim Wise Men, severely condemned the terrorist attacks that occurred in northeast Mali and regretted that a number of people were killed and injured.

The Council of Muslims affirms its blatant rejection of such acts of terrorism that contradict the celestial religions, laws, customs, and international agreements, calling for the need to work on unifying efforts to eliminate and eradicate black terrorism.

The #Council_of_Muslim_Wisdom expresses its deepest condolences to the #Mali Republic, its leadership, and its people, and to the victims’ families, asking that the Almighty Lord grant the injured a speedy recovery.

Muslim Council of Elders Strongly Condemns the Terrorist Attacks in Mali

Under the Chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, the Muslim Council of Elders vehemently condemns the terrorist attacks that took place in northeastern #Mali resulting in a number of deaths and injuries.

The Council reiterates its unwavering rejection of such heinous acts of terrorism, which blatantly contradict the teachings of divine religions, established laws, customs, and international doctrines. It also emphasizes the urgent need to consolidate efforts in order to eradicate and uproot all forms of terrorism.

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its deepest condolences to the Republic of Mali as well as to the families of the victims whilst wishing the injured a swift recovery

The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb has exchanged congratulations on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha with His Majesty the King of Bahrain, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, during a phone call. The pair prayed to Almighty Allah to bless the Arab and Muslim worlds as well as humanity with goodness and blessings.

The Grand Imam expressed Al-Azhar’s appreciation for the relationship that links it with the Kingdom of Bahrain. He also expressed his admiration for the efforts of His Majesty the King of Bahrain in serving the causes of the Arab and Islamic nations and promoting interfaith and interdenominational dialogue. The Grand Imam asked Almighty Allah to grant success to His Majesty’s noble endeavors in serving his people and to perpetuate the blessings of security and safety upon the Kingdom of Bahrain.

For his part, King Hamad expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Grand Imam in presenting the true image of Islam and promoting fraternity, coexistence, and peace. He prayed to Almighty Allah to grant His Eminence good health and well-being and to make him a source of strength for Islam and Muslims worldwide.

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders exchanged greetings on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha via phone call with the President of the United Arab Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The pair prayed to Allah that joyful occasions and celebrations bring goodness, prosperity, and blessings to humanity and that the Muslim world be blessed with security, stability, and prosperity.

During the call, His Eminence the Grand Imam expressed the appreciation of Al-Azhar for the global and regional efforts of the United Arab Emirates and its wise leadership in promoting peace, fraternity, tolerance, and serving Islam as well as the causes of the Arab and Islamic worlds.

For his part, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his appreciation for Al-Azhar and the efforts of His Eminence the Grand Imam in consolidating the values of human fraternity and coexistence along with presenting true Islamic teachings to the world.