• Backed by the determined steadiness of the Egyptians, Al-Azhar, thanks to God, is resolute to expose and deconstruct the vanities and blunders of all false thoughts
• Egypt is decreed to stand powerful and overcome the remnants of terrorism and weed out the bands of ignorance

Al-Azhar offers the sincerest condolences to the families of our pious martyrs, who were atrociously killed today during the Friday congregational prayers in Ar-Rawda Mosque, Arish City. They were barbarously and hideously shot by bands of traitorous murders and conspirators. Here, we affirm to all the Egyptians that such an attack on peaceful worshippers is really targeting our precious homeland, peaceful life and strong will. In particular, it aims at undermining our firm determination to live in peace and stability. Moreover, these evil massacres have nothing to do with religions or lofty morals. They reflect no strength on the part of killers. Actually, they only reflect what kind of atrocity, deviation, disappointment, and defeat they portray.

What is taking place nowadays affirms our past statements that evil brutal terrorism only aims to destroy the very existence of Egypt's people, mosques, churches, brave army and heroic policemen. To their misfortune, Egypt is definitely decreed to survival and victory. 

Thanks to the Allah's Providence, Egypt is well able to overcome the remnants of terrorism the bands of ignorance and excommunication and the bats of darkness. We are painfully shocked today, but we do believe in the divine plans and submit in humility to Allah, Who says, "Do not falter or feel saddened since you are superior, if you really are believers" (Quran, 3: 139).

We call on all Arabs and Muslims worldwide, who seriously and honestly work on fighting against and restraining terrorism, to stand united with Egypt and never let it stand alone in face of this malicious international terrorism. It is a moment for all free peoples around the world to work quickly on disclosing those who stand behind terrorism and provide it with finance and arms or with shelter and protection.

In conclusion, Al-Azhar, thanks to Allah, is resolute, backed by the determined steadiness of the Egyptians, to expose and deconstruct the vanities and blunders of all false thoughts to keep all Muslim youth immune against its traps and delusions. All such vicious attacks will never thwart Al-Azhar's determination to carry out and continue its mission against the forces of falsehood, a duty that Al-Azhar has been undertaking for more than a thousand years.