<b>‘Heinous act’</b>

An al-Qaida operative has murdered nearly 60 worshippers assembled at the Our Lady of Salvation Church in Iraq. While al-Qaida claims to have acted in the name of Islam, the Quran (22:40-41) specifically orders Muslims to fight to protect churches.

As ruler, Prophet Muhammad mandated “in writing” full protection for Christians from any act of aggression on the part of Muslims. As a member of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, I am horrified by this barbaric atrocity and fully condemn these heinous acts. As inconsequential as it may be, I fully express my condolences to the victims’ families and offer my sincere prayers during these extremely difficult times. We are with you.