Bromsgrove Muslim Community Trust condemns Paris attacks and calls for unity and solidarity

(Copied from a Bromsgrove Standard publication, 14th November 2015, written by Tristan Harris)

BROMSGROVE Muslim Community Trust (BMCT) has condemned the actions of those who carried out the horrific attacks in Paris which have left almost 130 people dead.

French President Francois Hollande said last night’s shocking shootings, bomb blasts and a hostage siege, were organised by the Islamic State (IS).

Following the massacre and the claims about who was behind the attacks, members of the BMCT contacted The Standard.

A statement by chairman Dr Waqar Azmi said: “We are deeply shaken and appalled by the horrifying Paris attacks and our deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the victims, and the French nation.

“There is no justification for murder and those who commit acts of violence cannot do so in the name of any faith. Any such claim is manipulative and evil. Terrorism has no religion or moral standing.”

He urged people of all faiths and those with no faith to stand firm in unity and solidarity.

“We must not let these terrorists divide us, otherwise the terrorists will win.

“Let us not play into their divisive narrative, and instead show them that people of all faiths and none can live peacefully, together.

“Like the terrorists who want to divide communities, there will be some in the days ahead who will try to use this atrocity to attack innocent people.

“We equally reject their intentions.

“It is evil people who do evil things – such acts will only increase our resolve to remain united.”