Al-Azhar Grand Imam, Iraqi National Wisdom Movement leader Discuss Ways to Enhance Islamic Unity
Mohamed Mandour
Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, welcomed Ammar Al-Hakim, Head of the Iraqi National Wisdom Movement, to discuss strategies for bolstering Islamic unity among all components of the Muslim Ummah.
Al-Tayeb stressed that unity is the sole pathway to revitalizing our Arab and Muslim nations. Consequently, the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference was launched in the Kingdom of Bahrain to harmonize the perspectives of Muslim scholars.
He noted that the Ummah is currently grappling with a difficult situation that presents a substantial challenge, particularly emphasizing the profound distress experienced by Arabs and Muslims due to the extended conflict in Gaza, which has now persisted for over sixteen months.
The Grand Imam further declared that the only resolution lies in uniting Muslims under a common cause, emphasizing that the time for division and discord has passed.
He expressed profound surprise at the paradox of division without cause, saying, "It is profoundly astonishing that we find reasons to divide when there are none, while others find unity despite having no common ground. We must fiercely protect our unity, for the Muslim Ummah possesses shared values that can serve as a solid foundation for unifying our voices and standing as one." His Eminence prayed for God to bless Muslim countries with peace and security.
During his reception of Ammar Al-Hakim, Head of the Iraqi National Wisdom Movement, Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, highlighted the robust connections between Al-Azhar, the Council, and Iraq.
He observed that such visits yield significant benefits and mirror the activities undertaken during conferences like the recent "Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference," which emphasized discussions and calls for unity. He reiterated that these efforts aim to positively influence the lives of Muslims and deepen the bonds of Islamic fraternity.
Ammar Al-Hakim expressed his gratitude and respect for the roles played by Al-Azhar and the Muslim Council of Elders, particularly regarding the Palestinian issue, commenting, "We consistently follow your esteemed statements and regard Al-Azhar as a beacon of moderation and balance, renowned for its advocacy on behalf of Muslim issues; this has always been our understanding of it. The Iraqi government and its religious leadership have maintained a unified stance on the Palestinian ordeal from its outset seventy years ago to the present. We value Egypt's firm opposition to the displacement of Palestinians, which has been clear and valiant, as well as the profound Arab and Islamic solidarity."
Al-Hakim also briefed the Grand Imam on the latest developments in Iraq, stating that the country is making rapid and steady strides toward stability and advancement.
He proclaimed, "Thank God, we are experiencing ongoing recovery and stability across all fronts, notably in the political and security realms. Iraq has become a bustling workshop of reconstruction and development, and we are racing against time to ensure Iraq reaches its deserved prominence and respect. The diverse Iraqi populace eagerly anticipates your visit, valuing your significant Islamic stature. They deeply respect and follow your bold stances."
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