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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 2, 2004
AMV condemns killings in Iraq, Pakistan
March 2, 2004 - The American Muslim Voice (AMV) has strongly condemned vicious attacks on Shia Muslims in Iraq and Pakistan that killed more than 200 people and injured hundreds today. The AMV offers condolences to the families of the victims and sympathize with them in this difficult time.
In Iraq, three suicide bombings killed about 200 worshipers in Baghdad and Karbala. Some 44 people were also killed in an attack on a religious procession in Quetta, North-western Pakistan.
The day of Ashoura in the Islamic (Hijra) Calendar is of major religious significance to Shia Muslims. All those targeted in Tuesday's attacks were Shia Muslims commemorating Ashura, the anniversary of the martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Imam Hussain, which is observed on the10th day of the Islamic New Year.
The statement AMV said:
We are deeply shocked and grieved over the loss of life and extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
We strongly condemn these vicious attacks, which targeted worshipers during the religious observances.
Terrorism has no sanction or place in Islam. These are cruel and senseless killings and a disservice to Islam, which enjoins peace and amity. The obvious motive for these senseless and shameful killings was to create sectarian divisions and foment inter-communal hatred.
These vicious attacks call for intensification of efforts by all Muslims to promote religious unity and political stability in the global Muslim community.
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