NZ Muslims Strongly Condemn the Terrorist Attack in Kabul

The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand Inc. (FIANZ) and the Muslim community in New Zealand were shocked and saddened by the news of the latest terrorist attack in Kabul, Afghanistan. In this latest attack, more than 100 innocent civilian lives have perished. A prominent Muslim Leader from Auckland (Dr Hashem Slaimankhel) who was visiting Afghanistan was also unfortunately killed in this suicide attack. Dr Hashem who was originally from Afghanistan took up residence in New Zealand in 1989 and worked as a Refugee Health Worker with the Auckland District Health Board. He was a passionate advocate and campaigner for social justice, rights of women and children, interfaith dialogue, refugee resettlement and was actively involved across diverse communities on various projects. Above all, Dr Hashem was known for his humility, generosity, caring nature and selflessness in serving others. In 2010, He was acknowledged by the Ministry of Social Development, Auckland Council and New Zealand Police for his contribution to rights of Muslim women and family violence awareness.

In addition to the loss of over 100 lives, scores have also been injured in this terrible incident which is believed to be the deadliest terrorist attack in Kabul in several months.

“This is a despicable act caused by the terrorist perpetrator whosoever on the innocent people especially those who were at a market place going about their daily lives in Kabul, said Mr Hazim Arafeh, President of FIANZ. This is senseless, shameful and totally against the teachings of Islam”, said Mr Hazim Arafeh, President of FIANZ.

Islam promotes peace and security to all mankind. It does not allow any lawless action against innocent people and their property, no matter when, where, or under what pretext such action might be taken. Islam denounces all kinds of terrorism. “Killing of innocent people is prohibited in Islam and those who carried out this atrocious crime must be some insane criminals”, said Mr Hazim.

We most strongly condemn this malicious crime and an indiscriminate and unjustified attack against civilians which are serious violations of human rights and humanitarian laws, said Mr Hazim.

In these difficult times, we stand in solidarity with our Afghanistan brethren and supplicate to Allah Almighty to give the family of Dr Slaimankhel and others who have lost their loved ones, the forbearance and fortitude to bear the loss and also for the speedy recovery of those injured in this terrible tragedy.

© Scoop Media