This is with reference to the report “King: Zero tolerance for terror” (Feb. 23). It is very important for all Muslim countries to devise a joint strategy against the terrorist groups active in our part of the world and bringing a bad name to Islam.

Even a Muslim with a limited knowledge of Islam realizes that these terrorist groups have nothing to do with the true teachings of Islam. They are following their own skewed interpretation of the faith.

These groups claim to be working for the cause of Islam. But their actions speak otherwise. It is due to their brutality, Muslims across the world are faced with immense difficulties and are seen as terror suspects particularly in the West. Muslim leaders should make all-out efforts to restore stability in countries, which are still safe from the clutches of these terrorists. These groups gained a foothold in countries going through sociopolitical turmoil.

These groups are exploiting the noble concept of jihad for the promotion of their selfish agendas. Their opposition to education and human rights clearly contradict their claims about implementing Islamic laws. Islam does not sanction killing of innocent people, women, children and the elderly. Our religion forbids destruction of places of worship belonging to other faiths. Based on this, we can confidently claim that these terrorist groups have nothing to do with Islam.

S.H. Moulana

Riyadh