ISNA SUGGESTS PRACTICAL STEPS TO END HOSTILITY IN THE MIDDLE EAST

ISNA

The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) registers its strong condemnation of the latest act of terrorism perpetrated by the Israeli war machine against innocent Lebanese civilians in Qana. This massacre of dozens of civilians, many of them small children, seeking refuge from the constant Israeli bombardment, is an unconscionable and brutal crime. It violates the authentic teachings of all Abrahamic religions, international law, and the most basic sense of humanity. In fact, such actions may qualify as war crimes that should be condemned by all. We urge that the perpetrators of these crimes should be brought to justice.

The oft-repeated claims by Israeli political and military authorities that only “combatants” are targeted, that all precautions are taken to avoid targeting civilians, and that combatants are operating in civilian areas are disproved by many instances. These include the apparently deliberate targeting of civilians including those who were fleeing the constant bombardment, devastating destruction of the infrastructure of Lebanon, attacking an International Red Cross convoy, and even UN observation posts. The Israeli claims are also belied by the fact that the vast majority of casualties – in Lebanon and Palestine—have been innocent civilians, with a large percentage of them being children.

Actions:

ISNA demands an immediate and unconditional ceasefire rather than the ambiguous expression of “ceasing hostilities” until a “sustainable ceasefire” and a “comprehensive political solution” is arrived at. Such expressions amount to giving the green light to Israel to bring about more civilian death and more devastation to the infrastructure of Lebanon.

ISNA calls upon the U.S. government to stop all forms of financial, military, and political support to Israel until it abides by international laws and desists from its war crimes against the Lebanese and Palestinian people.

ISNA urges all member states of the United Nations, particularly the Security Council, and all other peace-loving and justice-conscious people from all backgrounds to stand firm against the gross injustices and apathy, and to stop making unconscionable excuses on behalf of the Israeli government.

ISNA calls on all Lebanese people, Christians, Muslims of all sects, and others, all of whom have been negatively impacted by the Israeli aggression, to stand together in the face of this national tragedy.

ISNA urges all people of goodwill to donate generously to recognized and legal American and Canadian relief organizations in order to alleviate the immense suffering of the Lebanese people and their critical need of food, medicine, and secure movement in their own country.

ISNA urges all Muslims in the U.S. and Canada to exercise the utmost self-control and to never let their understandable anger lead to any un-Islamic and irresponsible act towards their fellow citizens. In fact, they should continue their ongoing dialogue with their Christian and Jewish friends, many of whom have condemned Israel’s terrorism perpetrated under the guise of “self defense”.

ISNA condemns any act of deliberate or reckless targeting of innocent non-combatants by any party to the conflict.

It is sad and ironic that this recent massacre took place in the same city where the Israelis committed another massacre ten years ago that killed over 100 Lebanese civilians who were seeking refuge in the UN compound. ISNA expresses its sincere condolences to all those who lost family members and loved ones in the recent tragedies.