Statement by the Council of Muslim Sages Condemning the Terrorist Bombing of a Church in Damascus

The Council of Muslim Sages issued a statement strongly condemning the "heinous terrorist bombing" that targeted the Mar Elias Church in the Dwelaa neighborhood of Damascus, affirming that such acts "completely contradict the teachings of Islam, all divine laws, international laws, and norms".

The statement stated: "Targeting places of worship is a blatant assault on the sanctity of lives and places, a crime that cannot be justified under any pretext or excuse", emphasizing its absolute rejection of all forms of violence and terrorism.

The Council also warned of the danger of extremist groups that "seek to spread destruction, chaos, undermine security and stability, sow division and discord among the people of the same nation".

The Council expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims, wishing a speedy recovery for the injured, and called for the protection of places of worship, affirming that human values and ethics "prohibit any infringement upon them and call for their respect". The statement concluded with a prayer that "God protects Syria and its people from all harm and evil".