Al-Azhar Observatory for Combating Extremism (AOCE) strongly condemns the decision taken by the Swedish authorities as they approved a small Quran-burning demonstration outside a mosque in Stockholm on Wednesday, claiming that this permit is in line with the right of freedom of speech, and that the demonstration does not pose an immediate security risk. Such a dramatic incident coincides with Muslims’ celebration all over the world with Eid al-Adha and performing pilgrimage that teaches us the meanings of fraternity and inner peace.
This extremist incident has sparked worldwide reactions, as many countries denounced this extremist incident that ignited the anger of Muslims all over the world. This incident is not the first of its kind but has rather been repeated over the past few years.
AOCE views that this tragic incident is no less perilous than terrorist attacks of extremist groups. Allowing such demonstrations under the pretext of freedom of expression is nothing but a provocation to the feelings of two billion Muslims. Al-Azhar calls on the international community and religious institutions to condemn these criminal acts that threaten world peace and security.