Imam Shirazi World Foundation Publishes Statement Calling for Tolerance

Imam Shirazi World Foundation published a statement and called for a united stance against opportunist groups in the west. In some parts of this statement, we read:

“Unfortunately, several Shia Islamic centers in Europe were invaded and closed down in recent days, under the pretext of harboring hateful and provocative ideologies and efforts to carry out military operations. This is at the same time astonishing and disturbing, since the Shia ideology clearly and strongly opposes any use of violence. Moreover, the longtime presence of Shia Muslims in Europe has proven this reality, as the Shia communities have always chosen for dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and respect for the laws of their host countries. Not only that but also the Shia Muslims have had great roles in the progress of their societies, by fulfilling their responsibilities and duties on both individual and social spheres.

Imam Shirazi World Foundation, which is a strong advocate of peaceful coexistence and nonviolence, condemns the unfounded accusations against Shia communities in Europe and warns of the hidden agendas at work that try to tarnish the image of Shia Islam in the west.

In this sense, the followers of the AhlulBayt (PBUT) are strongly advised to avoid interaction with any suspicious activity that might lead to destroying the image of Shia Muslim communities in Europe. The ISWF demands all managers and members of Shia Islamic centers to be vigilant and cooperate with the Intelligence Services of their home countries. To avoid accusations of this kind against Shia communities, the Shia must use transparent methods to propagate their culture and introduce the gist of Shia Islam to the west.

The ISWF emphasizes that the supreme goal of Shia centers in Europe is primarily the dissemination of the scientific, cultural and moral heritage of the AhlulBayt (PBUT), and that they serve Muslim immigrants, especially the Shia. Therefore, it is necessary to refrain from following some of the slogans and political currents and propaganda, which in this regard, could lead to legal problems and complications.