Condemning Terrorist Acts
In a recently issued public statement, the Global Imams Council (GIC) has condemned the recent terrorist attack orchestrated by the Iranian authorities against Israel. The attack, which occurred on April 13, 2024, involved a barrage of drones and missiles, exacerbating tensions and endangering religious sites, notably the Al-Aqsa Mosque.
The GIC, representing the Islamic Seminaries of Najaf and Karbala, remarked that Iran’s actions were contrary to Islamic principles. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), led by Ali Khamenei, has been accused of financing and harboring groups such as Hamas, Hezbollah, Yemen’s Houthis, and even members of Al-Qaeda.
Expressing grave concern over the ramifications of the attack to cause widespread conflict, the GIC calls for accountability and urges all authorities to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization promptly. The statement bears the signatures of the GIC Governing Board, Senior Imams Committee, Advisory Committee, Members of the General Council, and the Immediate Concerns Council, comprising 295 members from 38 countries.
The GIC’s statement adds a significant voice to the growing number of respected organizations condemning the act, highlighting the need for accountability against those perpetrating terrorism in the name of Islam.
PM Netanyahu Asserts Israel’s Independence in Security Decisions
Following Iran’s attack on Israel over the weekend, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will make its decision on a response independently. British Foreign Secretary David Cameron and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock flew to Israel for consultations following the attack.
Both Germany and the UK cautioned Israel against engaging in direct hostilities with Iran, expressing concerns that escalation could trigger a wider conflict in the Middle East. However, Israel re-emphasized its right to defend itself and retaliate against Iran.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, addressing the cabinet meeting on Wednesday, acknowledged the advice offered by Cameron and Baerbock but emphasized that Israel would take all necessary measures to safeguard its citizens, even if it meant deviating from the recommendations of its allies.
While Cameron expressed hope for a response that balances strength with prudence, Baerbock voiced her stance against Israel’s plan to strike back at Iran. Baerbock underscored the need to prevent further escalation, highlighting the European Union’s efforts to impose additional sanctions on Tehran.
She emphasized that all parties involved must exercise restraint and responsibility to avoid exacerbating the situation. Nevertheless, the prime minister reiterated the country’s readiness to defend itself against threats.
Israel Minister for Defense Cautions Against Complacency
Meanwhile, Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, has praised the coordinated efforts of both Israeli and US military forces in repelling Iran’s assault. However, he emphasized that while the immediate threat may have been neutralized, the confrontation with Iran was far from over.
As tensions persist, the path to peace and stability in the Middle East remains uncertain, with the potential for further escalation hanging in the balance.
