Grand Mufti of Egypt’s Statement Regarding the Attacks in Cairo February 22, 2009

The Grand Mufti of Egypt condemned the recent attacks in Egypt and described them as terrorist attacks that are strictly forbidden by Islam; a religion that teaches peace, mercy, security, and safety. He said in his statement moments after the attack that Islam forbids violence and the harassment of civilians. H.E. also said that Islamic law does not condone under any circumstance the attack of tourists who have come to the lands of Islam and whose safe passage has been guaranteed by the government. H.E. confirmed that these actions only serve the enemies of the state and aim to shake the status quo, which is prevalent. These actions also demonstrate a fundamental lack of respect for the sanctity of human life. The Grand Mufti has called for cooperation amongst citizens to deter this blind way of thinking that sees nothing except blood.