This is with reference to the report “Arabs ‘must unite to defeat terror’” (March 9). It is good that people and governments are making efforts to confront terrorism head-on. Terrorists are trying to hijack our religion, which is an ideology of peace. Not only Arabs but also all Muslims must join hands to tackle this issue.
It is imperative on all Muslims across the world to propagate the true teachings of Islam, which is in sharp contrast with the deviant ideology of those fighting in the name of Islam and killing innocent people.
Unity among Muslims is very important to deal with extremist tendencies. These extremists usually take advantage of petty differences between various schools of thought. Religious scholars can play a crucial role in this regard. All scholars must close ranks against terrorist outfits. These organizations are doing no good to Muslims and not serving the cause of Islam. I am not very well versed with dynamics of the global politics but I can claim with full confidence that most of these organizations are puppets in the hands of some powers that are leaving no stone unturned to gain a foothold in the region.
Religious scholars and intelligentsia have a role to play and they can help educate the masses about the political overtones of this so-called jihad and its implications on the future of the Muslim world. We as a nation are going through a rough patch; we must join hands against every force that threatens the fabric of our societies. I praise the Saudi government for taking this decision. It will have far-reaching effects and hopefully all Muslim countries will follow suit.
Jalal Rumi
Jeddah
United we stand, divided we fall
