—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—
 
JAMAICA, New York (January 1, 2011) – The Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) issued a statement today condemning the bombing at the Al-Qiddissin Church in Alexandria, Egypt. According to media reports the bombing occurred outside the church, killing 21 people and injuring 70.

Dr. Zahid Bukhari, president of ICNA, strongly condemned the bombing and said, “The bombing in Alexandria is an abhorrent act in the name of Islam by those who have no knowledge of the Islamic way of life. They do not represent the faith practiced by almost 1.5 billion people around the world.” He also said that the people behind this horrific crime do not deserve to be called Muslims because their actions do not follow the basic tenets of the Islamic faith, which calls upon its followers to respect and protect the lives of all people.
“We hope that Muslim and Christian leaders in Egypt will stand together for peace in the region,” said Dr. Bukhari. ICNA offers its condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones, and prays for the speedy recovery of those injured in this tragic act. ICNA requests that the Egyptian government apprehend those who were behind the attack and bring them to justice.