MMCC Press Release: The ISIS Crisis and the Carnage in Gaza

Press Release

(Royal Oak, MI, 08/11/14) – The Imams Council of the Michigan Muslim Community Council (MMCC) strongly condemns the continuing atrocities committed by the extremist group the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

The Imams opinion is based upon the teachings of the Holy Quran and example of Prophet Muhammad (s).

ISIS’ actions of mass executions, ethnic cleansing of Christians and other religious minorities, desecration of shrines, mosques and churches are against the teachings of Islam.
“Had God not repel some people by means of others, many monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, where God’s name is much invoked, would have been destroyed.” (Quran, 22:40).
Forced conversions are contrary to Islamic teachings. “There shall be no coercion in matters of faith” (Quran, 2:256).

For reasons cited above and more, recognized Muslim scholars have rejected the legitimacy of ISIS’ claims to the caliphate.

The International Union of Muslim Scholars stated that the caliphate declaration is “null and void” and “lacks any realistic or legitimate standards.” The Imams agree with the renowned scholars that, “All the affairs of the state and religious political practice should be based on shura (consultation).” The Quran and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasize the concept of shura, rather than coercion. Leadership is earned and not proclaimed, Muslim caliphs were thus elected by their followers.

The Imams Council equally condemns the carnage that has unfolded in Gaza, due to disproportionate attacks by the Israeli forces. Eighty percent killed were women and children – an intentional and systematic violence against the Palestinian people. This contradicts clear spiritual obligations in the Jewish faith.

The Quran conveys the Jewish scriptural principles regarding the sanctity of human life, “We (God) decreed to the Children of Israel that if anyone kills a person- unless in retribution for murder or spreading corruption in the land- it is as if he kills all mankind, while if any saves a life it is as if he saves the lives of all mankind. Our messengers came to them with clear signs, but many of them continued to commit excesses in the land” (Quran, 5:32).

We echo the outrage of the international community’s condemnation of the repeated and systematic destruction of essential infrastructure in Gaza destroying homes, businesses, power plants, schools, mosques and hospitals.

The Imams also urge supporting the humanitarian efforts on behalf of UN approved charitable organizations that provide basic needs of food, water, medicine, shelter and electricity to Gazans.
We stand in solidarity with all people of faith and conscience, praying for an everlasting peace.

Imam Mohammad Elahi

Imam Mustapha Elturk

Co-Chairs Imams Council,

The Imams Council of MMCC represents a coalition of Muslim religious leaders (imams) in the Metro-Detroit area.

CONTACT: MMCC Spokesperson: Mr. Dawood Zwink, Executive Director dzwink@mimuslimcouncil.com or call (313) 505-2423.

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