Praise is due to Allāh, Lord of the worlds, may the blessings and peace be upon our master Muḥammad, the last of prophets, on his family, and all his companions.

The Secretariat General of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy followed up the press reports about the presentation of the film “Fitna” (Discord), which attacked Islam and its Messenger (PBUH). It was made by the Dutch fascist MP Geert Wilders. The Secretariat General of the Academy strongly denounces such a despicable act, a villainous crime that aims at a blatant and deliberate provocation against the sensibilities of Muslims worldwide, and at fanning the flames of “fitna”, and clashes, instead of seeking to create a climate of concord and dialogue between the followers of different religions and cultures.

How can a dialogue between civilizations, cultures and religions be established if fascists are given free rein to corrupt and disturb the friendship of nations and international relations through such irresponsible actions, which leave the way wide open for fascism, violence and terrorism, which is why it is incumbent on Western politicians and men of faith to take a clear stand against the fanaticism that has been escalating in recent years against Muslims and their symbols, as in the case of the Danish cartoons. This represents the height of sectarian and religious terrorism that satirizes the beliefs of others, something they denounce day and night. We call on them to explain that freedom of the press does not constitute, in all cases, an attack on others, otherwise anarchy and free homicide will prevail, as well as other things that are rejected by all divine and even secular laws. Freedom of speech is an absolute and protected right when one does not harm others, nor their sacred rituals. We insist on these truths carried by the unceasing appeals, issued by the Academy and other religious, Islamic political and international bodies that urgently call for a United Nations resolution that prohibits offending religions and their symbols, respecting prophets and messengers, outlaws the repetition of such crimes by imposing severe sanctions. This can strengthen the bonds of human brotherhood and peace between the components of the international community.

On this occasion, we welcome all the sincere appeals made to denounce this despicable act, in Holland and all Western countries, and on the language of the Secretary General of the United Nations, and by all world organizations.

We urge all parties to be calm during this polemic to maintain the welfare of Islam and Muslims.

And may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and companions.

Prof. Abdulsalam al-Abbadi,

SG of the International Islamic Fiqh Academy.