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UN Secretary-General: “We continue to support justice in Gaza and to exert pressure on the international community to respect the rights of Palestinians.”

UN Secretary-General to Al-Azhar Grand Imam: “You are a powerful voice for supporting the rights of the Palestinian people.”

Al-Azhar Grand Imam presents the UN Secretary-General with a shield from the Muslim Council of Elders, appreciating his courageous stance towards the Palestinians and his efforts to combat Islamophobia.

His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and the Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, received today, Sunday, Mr. António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, accompanied by Mr. Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), and Ms. Elena Panova, the UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt. The two parties discussed the latest developments in Gaza.

His Eminence the Grand Imam warmly welcomed Mr. António Guterres, commending his courageous stances in supporting the Palestinian cause and promoting justice and human rights in Gaza. He also praised Mr. Guterres’s clear positions in warning the world of the dangers of this aggression, as well as the significant efforts of the UNRWA towards refugees fleeing the aggression’s flames.

His Eminence Sheikh Al-Tayeb remarked, “We have closely followed your brave actions and fair statements in various international gatherings, as well as the pressures and difficult situations you have encountered while advocating for justice and the Palestinian cause. I want to assure you that we, at Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, including scholars, professors, students, and affiliates, support your stances and will not waver in our support. We understand that you feel the pain and sorrow that we feel, and our only recourse is to rely on God, Almighty. Through your actions and those of leaders and wise individuals like you, you serve as a beacon of hope for protecting the weak and oppressed in Gaza.”

He stressed that the world is heading in the wrong direction without humanitarian principles or moral guidelines. He emphasized that if the current situation persists, we will witness an unprecedented spread of crime, hatred, destruction, wars, and violence. This contagion will extend from conflict zones to all countries worldwide, reaching even the West and America. Therefore, it is imperative for all of us to unite and stand in solidarity to halt the torrents of innocent blood being shed every hour.

His Eminence the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders emphasized that the current events in Gaza threaten to undermine the ongoing efforts of communication and rapprochement between the East and the West that have been initiated years ago. He noted that the international community’s responses to the aggression in Gaza have been frustrating and disappointing, particularly from the Security Council and the broader international community. In contrast, significant fairness has been shown by Western and American societies, and some fair-minded Jews have even called for an end to the aggression in Gaza.

The UN Secretary-General expressed, “It is a great honor for me to meet with Your Eminence and express my appreciation for your constant efforts in promoting peace and solidarity. You are an example to be followed by all. I would like to convey our appreciation to Al-Azhar Al-Sharif as a strong voice defending and supporting the Palestinian people. We are determined to exert pressure on the international community to respect the rights of Palestinians and alleviate their suffering. Yesterday, I visited the Rafah Border Crossing to emphasize the necessity of ending the aggression and for the international community to fulfill its duties with actions, not just words. On the other side of the crossing, I saw Palestinians suffering from severe shortages of food and water, as well as the spread of various infectious diseases. It is our responsibility to highlight and immediately stop this suffering. This is a responsibility for all of us.”

Mr. António Guterres noted that he had met with officials from various international institutions and organizations the previous day, where he listened to many accounts about the situation in Gaza. He remarked that some officials had told him that in his more than 25 years of working in conflict and war zones around the world, he had never witnessed the level of destruction, suffering, and violence that he saw in Gaza.

Mr. Guterres emphasized that Islamophobia has significantly evolved and has become one of the most widespread forms of discrimination and hatred. He attributed this evolution to modern technological advancements, highlighting that the world is currently witnessing unprecedented levels of hatred and violence. He cited the situations in Sudan, Gaza, Ukraine, and various parts of Africa, stating, “I do not recall a more dangerous period than what we are experiencing now.” He emphasized his continued support for justice in Gaza, asserting that no one will be able to silence or suppress his voice.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar presented Mr. António Guterres with a shield from the Muslim Council of Elders as a token of appreciation from Al-Azhar and all the wise people of the Islamic world for his courageous stance towards the innocent Palestinians in Gaza, as well as his efforts in combating Islamophobia and the phenomenon of hostility towards Islam.

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, condemns the terrorist attack that occurred in Kandahar, southern Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths and injuries of several innocent people.

The Council reaffirms its unequivocal rejection of such terrorist acts, which contradict the teachings of the noble Islamic religion, as well as all divine laws, international conventions, and norms that criminalize violence and terrorism in all its forms.

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its sincere condolences to the Afghan people and to the families of the victims, praying to the Almighty for the swift recovery of the injured.

Muslim Council of Elders: The Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative Reflects the Wise Vision of the President of the UAE in Addressing the Existential Challenge of Water Scarcity

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the Chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, affirmed that water is the foundation of life on planet Earth and that no environmental or economic system can persist without the presence of clean water suitable for drinking and use. The Council emphasized that in Islam, water is described as a source of life. Therefore, it strongly encourages the rational consumption of water and prohibits extravagance in its use. 

On the occasion of World Water Day, which falls on March 22nd of each year, the Muslim Council of Elders stated that sharing water resources and ensuring their efficient and equitable distribution are significant challenges facing humanity. These challenges include climate change, water scarcity, water pollution, deteriorating water quality, and escalating tensions related to water in many regions worldwide. The Council called for collaboration among nations, institutions, and individuals to support efforts aimed at rationalizing water consumption and fostering a culture of proper practices and behaviors in this regard.

The statement also commended the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative, which aims to address the urgent global challenge of water scarcity and accelerate innovative technological solutions in this field. It emphasized that this initiative reflects the wise vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, in tackling this existential challenge. It embodies the UAE’s strong commitment to achieving comprehensive development in various communities worldwide and ensuring a dignified and sustainable life for all.

The Muslim Council of Elders: The “Mothers’ Endowment” Campaign is A Noble Humanitarian Initiative Reflecting the Values of Giving and Solidarity Characterizing the United Arab Emirates

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the Chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, affirmed that Islam and its tolerant teachings place mothers in a high position, emphasizing their nobility, and urging kindness, care, and excellence towards them for their invaluable role in the lives of their children. The council highlighted that Almighty Allah, has linked kindness to mothers with worship, as stated in the Holy Quran: “And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years. Be grateful to Me and to your parents; to Me is the [final] destination.” (Surah Luqman 31:14).

In a statement on the occasion of Mother’s Day, which falls on March 21st of each year, the Muslim Council of Elders emphasized that mothers symbolize boundless love and giving, embodying enduring human values that sustain families and prepare promising generations capable of bearing responsibilities and building a better and prosperous future. The council stressed the importance of providing support and care for mothers in various societies, ensuring their rights and respect, and creating conducive environments for them to fulfill their roles effectively and with dignity.

The statement also paid tribute to Palestinian mothers, symbolizing resilience, perseverance, and sacrifice, amidst the challenging humanitarian conditions faced by thousands of them due to the ongoing aggression on the Gaza Strip, which has displaced hundreds of thousands and resulted in thousands of martyrs and casualties, most of whom being women and children.

Furthermore, the statement commended the “Mothers’ Endowment” campaign launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, coinciding with Mother’s Day and the holy month of Ramadan, describing it as an exceptional humanitarian initiative that reflects the values of giving and solidarity exemplified by the United Arab Emirates under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates. The Council notes that this initiative has the potential to positively impact the lives of millions of individuals, especially in less fortunate communities, by improving their living conditions, providing better educational opportunities, and achieving comprehensive development for their societies and countries.

On the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination – The Muslim Council of Elders: Islam Established Principles of Mercy, Justice, and Equality and Rejected All Forms of Bigotry, Racism, and Discrimination

The Muslim Council of Elders Calls for the Establishment of International Legislation Criminalizing Racial Discrimination and Promoting Values of Dialogue, Tolerance, and Coexistence

The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, reaffirms its commitment to promoting the values of fraternity, tolerance, and justice among humanity. Drawing inspiration from the spirit of Islam, the religion of mercy and peace, the council stands firm against all forms of bigotry, racism, hatred, and discrimination.

On the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, observed on March 21st of each year, the Muslim Council of Elders stated that Islam calls for equality among people and emphasized that all are equal, as Allah says: “And We have certainly honored the children of Adam and carried them on the land and sea and provided for them of the good things and preferred them over much of what We have created, with [definite] preference.” [Quran 17:70]. The council affirmed that all people originate from one source, as the Prophet Muhammad, (PBUH), said: “People are the children of Adam, and Adam was created from dust.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi). The Council warns that discrimination represents a dangerous scourge that threatens peace and global security, hence the necessity to unify efforts to confront and eradicate it.

The statement also highlighted the Document on Human Fraternity which was co-signed by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and His Holiness Pope Francis of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019. The document called for the dissemination of equality and justice values, and the instillation of principles of tolerance and mutual respect. It emphasized that the concept of citizenship is based on equality in rights and duties that ensure justice for all. Therefore, efforts must be made to consolidate the concept of full citizenship in our societies, abandoning the exclusionary use of the term “minorities,” which carries with it a sense of isolation and inferiority, fosters seeds of discord and division, deprives some citizens of their religious and civil rights and entitlements, and leads to discriminatory practices against them.

The Muslim Council of Elders exerts significant efforts to reduce the phenomenon of racial discrimination and seeks to eliminate it through numerous purposeful initiatives aimed at promoting equality, respect, and acceptance of others, and enhancing the values of dialogue, tolerance, and shared coexistence.

Religious diplomacy serves as a key strategy for the Muslim Council of Elders in promoting enlightened moderate thought worldwide.

As part of its commitment to fostering peace and advocating for values of dialogue, tolerance, and mutual coexistence, the Muslim Council of Elders has, for the first time this year, dispatched several religious missions to various countries. These missions aim to celebrate the nights of Ramadan and spread the values of moderation, tolerance, and enlightened Islamic thought.

The missions have included several Qur’an reciters and Islamic preachers sent to countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Germany, Italy, and others. Their tasks include leading prayers, reciting the Noble Qur’an, and delivering khutbahs (sermons) and religious lectures to worshippers. These efforts are designed to strengthen ties with Muslims worldwide, enhance their religious awareness, encourage positive integration into their communities, and protect them from extremist ideologies, thereby safeguarding them from falling into the clutches of violent and terrorist groups.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, stated that the Council, under the leadership of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, aims through its extensive programs and activities worldwide to connect Muslims with the fundamentals of their religion and creed. It seeks to enhance a correct understanding of Islam and raise their awareness of the ethical methods to confront the challenges facing members of Muslim communities around the world, especially in light of the increasing phenomenon of Islamophobia. His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam pointed out that the goal of these religious missions is to promote the values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence, achieve positive integration while preserving Islamic identity, provide a deep understanding of Islamic religious values and traditions, and how to apply these values in daily life.

Since the start of the sacred month of Ramadan, the missions of the Muslim Council of Elders have been carrying out intensive activities amidst significant official and public participation. In Indonesia, His Excellency Yaqut Khalil Qumas, Minister of Religious Affairs, received a delegation from the Muslim Council of Elders, expressing his appreciation for the Council’s efforts in promoting the values and culture of tolerance and peaceful coexistence worldwide, and addressing the most prominent issues of the Islamic nation, such as the discourse of extremism and hatred, as well as the widespread phenomenon of Islamophobia.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ mission to Indonesia included a range of events and activities. They conducted a ceremony to certify students at the Al-Kawthar Institute for Quranic Sciences, where students learned about the Hadith of Mercy (Rahmah), which is a common Hadith Musalsal bi al-Awwaliyyah, accompanied by readings of Imam al-Nawawi’s Forty Hadith along with brief relevant comments and remarks for both male and female students. The students were also certified with the Isnads (chains of transmission) of the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar of the hadiths explained by Imam Al-Nawawi. Additionally, the mission visited the Dar Al-Najah Institute and University in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, which has 2,500 students. It met with Dr. Safwan Manaf, the university’s director, and several university leaders to discuss ways to advance the university’s scientific progress. Dr. Salah Al-Shami, a member of the mission, then delivered a public lecture on the purposes of fasting, which was attended by all students of Dar Al-Najah Institute and University, who interacted with the lecture.

In Dar Al-Safwa in the city of Depok, West Java, Dr. Salah Al-Shami and the mission of the Muslim Council of Elders held an extended session between Asr and Maghrib, where students heard the Isnads (chains of transmission) from His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Council’s Chairman, of the Hadith Musalsal bi al-Awwaliyyah known as the Hadith of Mercy, the Hadith Musalsal bi al-Awwaliyyah on Friday, and the fasting Hadiths from the book “Bulugh Al-Maram” (Attainment of the Objective According to Evidence of the ordinances) by Al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar Al-Asqalani. They also certified the attending institute students along with a large number of professors and students from other institutes. The gathering was held for a second time in the same institute after Qiyam (night) prayers, where they read a portion of the Hadiths of Abu Bakr Muhammed ibn Al-Hussein ibn Fingawya Al-Thaqafi on the virtue of the month of Ramadan, and licensed those present with chains of transmission from the Grand Imam.

The Council’s mission also had a meeting with His Excellency Professor Muhammad Quraish Shihab, a member of the Muslim Council of Elders and a distinguished scholar and former Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia. The discussion covered essential guidance and advice for their academic and Da’wa journey in Indonesia.

In Malaysia, the Council’s mission participated in various activities and events in several mosques in Kuala Lumpur, the capital. These activities included performing Qiyam (night) prayers, reciting the Qur’an, and delivering religious lectures on various aspects of the Islamic faith. Additionally, members of the mission met with His Excellency Datuk Senator Dr. Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri, a member of the Muslim Council of Elders, a member of the Senate, and the former Minister of Islamic Affairs of Malaysia. The discussion focused on the most important issues and challenges facing the Islamic nation and the Council’s delegation program during the blessed month of Ramadan in Malaysia.

In Italy, the mission of the Muslim Council of Elders organized numerous activities and events in several Italian cities, including Milan, the “Al Madina Center”, the “Erba Center” in the city of Lecco, and the “Al Buraq Center” in the city of Como. These activities included performing Qiyam (night) prayers and delivering sermons on religious reflections after prayers in mosques and religious lectures after the Asr and Isha prayers. They also included organizing a program for memorizing the Qur’an for children and adults, holding recitation sessions, and teaching Tajweed (the rules of Quranic recitation) for adults. Quranic recitation sessions for women were also organized.

The Republic of Kazakhstan welcomed the mission of the Muslim Council of Elders, who conducted an important tour of mosques and important religious centers across the country to celebrate the nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. The tour included several cities, including Kokshetau, Stepnogorsk, Pavlodar, and Shymkent, where the mission members were warmly received with great enthusiasm and interest.

In Germany, the Council’s mission organized an exceptional tour of several mosques and important religious centers across the country. The mission members delivered impactful and impressive Qur’anic recitations that attracted both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. They also engaged in religious discussions and dialogues with the Muslim community and the local community, exchanging views on important religious and cultural issues and various challenges.

The Muslim Council of Elders: Al-Azhar Al-Sharif stands as a beacon of knowledge and moderation

The Muslim Council of Elders: Under the leadership of Grand Imam Al-Tayeb, Al-Azhar has regained its pioneering global role in defending the causes of the Muslim nation and disseminating the true teachings of Islam

The Muslim Council of Elders extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, as well as to the scholars, students, graduates, and admirers of Al-Azhar worldwide, on the occasion of the 1084th anniversary of the founding of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, a beacon of knowledge in the Islamic world.

Throughout its extensive history, Al-Azhar Al-Sharif has stood as a formidable stronghold against extremist ideologies, earning its place as a significant religious institution cherished by Muslims globally. It remains a symbol of moderate Islam, enlightenment, and moderation worldwide, with Al-Azhar University playing a prominent and pioneering role in nurturing generations of scholars and preachers capable of spreading the true essence of religion.

The Muslim Council of Elders commends the tireless efforts of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, in developing and uplifting Al-Azhar Al-Sharif to regain its leadership and global role in defending the causes of the Muslim nation, combating extremist ideologies, clearing misconceptions, and promoting values of dialogue, tolerance, coexistence, fraternity, compassion, and peace.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Grand Imam underscore the importance of ongoing Arab, Islamic, and international efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.

During the call, His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, exchanged Ramadan greetings with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the United Arab Emirates. They prayed for Allah Almighty to bless the Arab, Islamic, and global community with goodness, prosperity, and stability.

His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb expressed Al-Azhar’s appreciation for the UAE’s diligent efforts in promoting peace, fostering fraternity and tolerance. He also commended His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s sincere endeavors to deliver humanitarian aid and assist the Palestinian civilians in Gaza facing tough humanitarian circumstances.

In response, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed appreciation for Al-Azhar’s role and the efforts of His Eminence the Grand Imam in advancing peace, fraternity, and harmonious coexistence. He also acknowledged the efforts in providing religious knowledge to Muslims and promoting enlightened Islamic thought.

Concluding the call, both leaders stressed the importance of sustained Arab, Islamic, and international efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza, work towards a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue, and ensure the delivery of aid to brethren in Gaza.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders: “The UN resolution represents an important step in encouraging international efforts to eliminate the phenomenon of Islamophobia.”

The Muslim Council of Elders, led by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif, has welcomed the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of a resolution on combating Islamophobia and the appointment of a special envoy to the United Nations tasked with combating Islamophobia. This coincides with the world’s celebration of the International Day for Combating Islamophobia, which is annually observed on March 15th.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, affirmed that the UN resolution is a significant step in the right direction to encourage the efforts of the international community towards eliminating the phenomenon of Islamophobia and building a world that is more just and peaceful. He emphasized the importance of all members of society being respected and dignified, regardless of their religion or beliefs. He pointed out that Islam is a religion of mercy and peace, based on values of tolerance, justice, and benevolence, promoting peaceful coexistence among people of different religions and cultures.

His Excellency Judge Abdelsalam explained that combating this dangerous phenomenon is a responsibility that falls on everyone and requires concrete and effective measures, including the enactment of binding legislation, to eliminate all forms of hatred, bigotry, and Islamophobia. This would contribute to achieving international peace and security. He further affirmed that freedom of belief is one of the fundamental principles underlying human rights.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders praised the statement of the United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, in which he affirmed that Muslims represent the wonderful diversity of the human family. Mr. Guterres highlighted the significant contributions made by Muslim scholars in culture, philosophy, and science. He emphasized that Islam, embraced by nearly two billion people, represents a pillar of common human history. Mr. Guterres called for an end to the shameful exploitation of hatred against Muslims and exclusionary policies aimed at political gain. He described Islamophobia as a “plague” and a malignant epidemic.

The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on Friday condemning any call for religious hatred and incitement to discrimination, hostility, or violence against Muslims. The resolution urges member states to take necessary measures to combat religious bigotry, negative stereotypes, hatred, and incitement to violence against Muslims, and to ban incitement to violence and its practice based on religion or belief.

The Muslim Council of Elders, led by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, strongly condemns the terrorist attack on the Monastery of Saint Mark the Apostle and Saint Samuel the Confessor in the South African city of Johannesburg. The attack resulted in the tragic deaths of three monks from the Coptic Orthodox Church.

The Council firmly rejects such terrorist acts, which are contrary to the teachings of religions and divine laws that prohibit attacks on innocent lives in places of worship and advocate for respect and acceptance of others, discouraging any form of aggression or harm towards them. 

The Muslim Council of Elders expresses its heartfelt condolences to His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, the Pope of Alexandria and Patriarch of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and to the families of the victims. The Council demands that the perpetrators be pursued and brought to justice.