Patriarchs challenge Islamic officials, world leaders to take action against terrorists

August 29, 2014

Describing the violence against Christians in Iraq and Syria as “attempted genocide,” a group of Catholic and Orthodox patriarchs has challenged Islamic officials and international leaders to take action against terrorism. “The very existence of Christians is at stake in several Arab countries--notably in Iraq, Syria and Egypt-- where they have been exposed to heinous crimes, forcing them to flee,” the patriarchs said, in a statement released at the conclusion of their summit meeting in Brkerke, in the at the headquarters of the Maronite Catholic Church.

“What is painful is the absence of a stance by Islamic authorities,” the Church leaders said. They urged influential Islamic leaders to issue fatwas against sectarian violence.

However the prelates also criticized the world’s political leaders, remarking that “the international community has not adopted a strict stance either.” They said that diplomatic pressure should be brought to bear on countries that supply financial support for terrorist groups, and assets belonging to known terrorists should be seized.

 

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Further information:

• Middle Eastern Patriarch calls for eradication of the Islamic State (Catholic Herald)
• Patriarch labels Islamic State actions 'attempted genocide (CathNews)