on journalistic responsibility

8/11/2019 On Journalistic Responsibility

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On journalistic responsibility: Media andPalestine

Tensions between Western liberalism and imperialism have deformed mainstream

ournalism's outlook.Last updated: 08 Jul 2014 12:30

Palestinians can be a drag sometimes - even paranoid. They reckon all Westerners are out to

get them. And judging from their reaction in recent days, it's clear they never met a media

channel they liked. Their criticism of CNN, BBC and Al Jazeera America is a testimony of their

paranoia.

It's not like all their homeland is occupied! Or most of their people dispossessed!

Oops. Okay, actually, it is. Yes, they are.

Indeed, Palestine is under siege, and Palestinians are revolting once again.

But so what? Should being victims of five decades of military occupation and seven decades of

dispossession put them above questioning or criticism?

It's not like Western media is out to get them.

Or is it? At least those Palestinians in the West seem to think so.

Complaints, complaints

The unabashed bias has led some, including Jerusalem Fund Director Yousef Munayyer, to

question if "CNN has officially become Israeli state TV". Munayyer cites CNN's June 30 coverage

of the death of three Israeli settlers, featuring three outspoken Israeli guests: Israel's former US

ambassador (who became a CNN analyst); the present Israel ambassador to the US, and Mark

Regev, official spokesman for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Yet how many Palestinians were invited to speak about the large-scale violence and collective

punishment of civilians wrought upon them by the Israeli military machine? "Zero", according to

Munayyer.

But why the exaggerated dismay! That's, basically, as many Israelis CNN invited to speak about

the missing Malaysian flight.

Fortunately, the same can't be said of Al Jazeera America, which does invite Palestinians to give

their perspective. Yet, Ali Abunimah, the Palestinian who spoke on air, lamented that AJAM host

David Shuster "was like Israel's defence attorney cross examining me".


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Empire - What Future for the Arab World?

Indeed, many of Abunimah'sTwitter followers bemoanedthat the interview sounded like

"something from FOX news".

Abunimah seemed dumbstruck by the question: Why isn't Hamas expressing sympathy and

expressing condolences to the settler families? Worse, instead of condemning Hamas'

unwelcomed indifference, he went on a rampage about Israel's occupation and apartheid, acting

as if this was the time or the place to make such assertions, when we were all supposed to lower

the flag and declare three days of mourning just as Israel does after the death of each and every

Palestinian.

OK, Israel doesn't do that. But it does open investigations; lots of investigations leading to more

investigations. At any rate, the whining doesn't stop there; it's also contagious. Now Palestiniansand those in solidarity with Palestine aretaking the BBC to a tribunalin a bid to find out why

the British corporation is promoting Jerusalem as an "Israeli city".

Why the constant nitpicking? When all of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, also referred

to as "Judea and Samaria" are finally back under the control of their "lawful owners", who cares

how the BBC refers to Jerusalem. Crazy.

Alas, none of this is funny. It's rather sad considering the suffering that comes along to all those

in proximity to Palestine.

Speaking of fact and fiction

A journalist's responsibility is first and foremost to try to establish the facts. People, Israelis and

Palestinians included, have a right to their opinion, but not to their own facts.

Without the facts, fiction or propaganda is more likely to complicate political issues, not clarify

them. And once the facts are established, journalists must do all they can without prejudice to

make sense of them in order to come as close as possible to the truth of the matter.

Is Palestine occupied? Yes. Is East Jerusalem occupied? Yes. Is Western coverage of Palestine

overwhelmingly slanted towards Israel? Of course. These are verifiable facts.

Is Hamas a by-product of the Israeli occupation? Yes. Just as Hezbollah is a by-product of the

Israeli occupation of Lebanon, al-Shabab a by-product of Ethiopia's occupation of Somalia, al-

Qaeda of the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, and the Islamic State, of the US ' occupation of

Iraq. Historical records make that clear.

Why is Hamas inciting violence against Israel instead of expressing condolences and sympathy

when Israelis die? Because they represent what they best see fit as the resistance spirit of apeople under a repressive and murderous occupation. These are the facts.
https://twitter.com/AliAbunimah/status/483812652213235713https://twitter.com/AliAbunimah/status/483812652213235713https://twitter.com/AliAbunimah/status/483812652213235713http://electronicintifada.net/blogs/amena-saleem/judge-decide-if-bbcs-misreporting-jerusalem-propaganda-or-journalismhttp://electronicintifada.net/blogs/amena-saleem/judge-decide-if-bbcs-misreporting-jerusalem-propaganda-or-journalismhttp://electronicintifada.net/blogs/amena-saleem/judge-decide-if-bbcs-misreporting-jerusalem-propaganda-or-journalismhttps://twitter.com/AliAbunimah/status/483812652213235713


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Was it Hamas that killed the three Israeli settler youths?

Journalist as policemen

There's nothing wrong with a journalist investigating with the skill of a prosecutor in order to

understand the root causes of complicated issues. Like policemen, journalists report facts, but

unlike policemen, they do not enforce the law - theoretically or otherwise.

Journalists are bound by a great duty: to trace, examine, and question the salient, indirect and all

too often, the political responsibility for creating an environment conducive to violence.

In that way, a military occupation is a violence-based system managed through force; one that

breeds more of the same. No act, terrible as it might be, could or should be seen separately from

the larger system of violence governing an occupied territory. Separating individual cases of

violence from the larger context of collective violence is morally irresponsible and journalisticallymisleading.

The occupation is not a theological or religious issue. Not a question of Muslim and Jew, Arab

and Israeli. It's about power, its pretexts and ramifications.

The same applies to a civilian occupation imposed by force, as is the case with Israel's

settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories which the United Nations Security Council

deemed unlawful in contravention to the Geneva Convention (IV).

Analytically speaking, when Israel continues to expand settlements, despite the onset of the

peace process, one could make the case, as the Palestinians do, that those who impose

settlements illegally and by force, are responsible for the violence that results from both sides:

the settlers and the indigenous population.

Journalists are no diplomats

Bridging the gap among conflicting claims through compromise is not the responsibility of

journalists - that's a role for a politician or diplomat.

A journalist's first and foremost responsibility is to highlight the relevant angles and perspectives

of any event without prejudice or orthodoxy. But it shouldn't stop there.

Journalists must question the nature of the systems of power at play, as well as their uses and

abuses.

Giving a Nazi and a Jew equal time doesn't make for a good discussion of the Holocaust. Just as

providing a racist and victim of racism equal time doesn't make for an investigation into

Apartheid. Such claims of "balance" to prove "neutrality" is at best misleading.


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Likewise, providing ample time for two authorities' spokespersons to decimate each other's

official lines makes for twice the propaganda. Bridging the gap between occupied and occupier in

the shadows of occupation doesn't make for good journalism, it makes for bad media.

Indeed, the media's attempt at playing devil's advocate - while it is healthy and allows for adegree of scepticism - must break out of the false dichotomy of pro and anti, to shed light on

more nuanced discussions that go beyond official lines, and recycled claims and banalities.

Sensitive and controversial?

The tension between Western liberalism and Western imperialism, and discrepancy between

Western values and politics, have long deformed the mainstream journalistic outlook towards the

developing world. Likewise, intimidation, fear tactics and worse of all, accusations of anti-

Semitism have all too often undermined Western journalism's approach to the Palestine-Israel

topic. That's not to say there is no anti-Semitism. But its misuse by Zionist propagandists haveundermined it to a large degree.

The conventional wisdom is that the Israel-Palestine topic is a sensitive and controversial issue

that journalists need to tiptoe around, for fear of upsetting powerful elites, or the Israeli camp in

the West. To journalists, it's not exactly a good career move to open themselves to accusation of

anti-Semitism, unfair as that might be.

Alas, there are enough bigots with prison guard-type mindsets who will literally throw garbage at

anyone who dares to question the Israeli occupation until it sticks.

But that mustn't discourage those carrying out this honourable profession to carry their work

ethically. In this case, this includes the misconduct of the Israeli government, the Palestinian

Authority and the Hamas regime in Gaza.

Even if journalists are not licensed like doctors are, and face no malpractice lawsuits that bar

them from practising their profession, their responsibility towards a healthier society cannot be

overestimated.

Marwan Bish ara is the senior pol i t ical analyst at Al J azeera.


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Conclusive scholarly opinions on ISIS

The Syrian conflict has raged on, leaving conscious Muslims experiencing an agonising dilemma: to watch

helplessly while thousands are oppressed and killed or to help with whatever is in their capacity. A numberof Muslim youth have opted to join the revolt, offering their lives to the cause. This has prompted the

government to adopt or suggest punitive actions against them citing fear that they would become

radicalised.[1] Years prior to this rather uncertain position assumedby the British government, scholars

in Syria and abroad had warned foreigners of travelling to fight in Syria. This was not due to fears of

radicalisation as these are not substantiated by any empirical evidence, but rather for concerns that the

course of the revolution would be hampered since manpower was never required as much as financial and

medical resources.[2]

Years into the mass uprising, certain elements sprung up and spread in the revolution, that severely stalled

progress against the Syrian regime. In addition to this, certain groups began perpetrating crimes against

Syrian fighters through internal provocation and conflict[3] and through targeting aid workers and

civilians[4], whilst following a warped reading into Islam unrecognised by countless Syrian and

international scholars.[5] [6] Scholars had previously communicated their position to the masses, but their

incapacity to take these scholars seriously[7] developed the catastrophe the scholars had warned of. The

catastrophe culminated in predominantly misinformed outsiders bolstering the strength of the Islamic

State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIS), duped by the groups buzz-words (Khilfah,Bayah,Amral-

Muminn,Hijrahand so on). In reality, if ISIS are not part of Assads regime as some claim[8], they have

either been severely infiltrated by the regime or their ideology is starkly unrelated to Islam and critically

misguided.

ISIS have not only weakened the fighters in Syria against Bashar, but have murdered arbitrators andcommitted heinous crimes against Muslims. The regime has benefited greatly by the presence of ISIS,

even avoiding them in pursuit and attack.[9] ISIS have furthermore shackled the progress of some of the

most effective Islamic rebel groups by waging war on them for their refusal to pledge allegiance to them

and to their warped ideology. The government and media suggest that many of those who have gone to

fight in Syria have joined ISIS while recent videos might be seen to confirm these claims.[10] Assuming

these claims to be accurate, it becomes binding upon those who are sincere in yearning for an end to the

oppression to reveal the unmistakable reality.

Sadly, many eager individuals do not recognise the authority of Syrias scholars, dismissing their views

while accusing others of being politicised. Who did they follow and what did they risk? No doubt the

scale of the crisis in Syria is unparalleled, thus what is at stake for those who travel there is most probably

death. Death will lead to Paradise or the Hellfire. For those who opted to join ISIS, on what basis and

through what justification are they willing meet Allh when this faction has shed the blood of thousands

unjustly? The question remains, did these individuals refer to the Book of Allh, the injunctions of the

MessengersallaAllhualayhwasalam and the guidance of our leaders in understanding and faith, the

recognised scholars of Islam, before embarking on thiskhirah-focused risk? Those who truly care for the

course of the revolution and desire that it achieves the best end will categorically stop at the injunction of

Allh if nothing else. If our pride fails to lend Syrian scholars their worth, take the following international

statements and verdicts regarding ISIS, issued by the following diverse list of scholars.[5] [6]


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Most scholars used the Arabic abbreviation Deshin reference to ISIS. Deshhas been substituted

for ISIS for the convenience of the reader.

Sheikh Abu Abdullah al-Masry:

Sheikh al-Masry was previously a member of ISIS but withdrew from them on the basis of their ideology

and methodology. He justifies his withdrawal by mentioningISISdefamation of the people of Syria,

claiming they were ideologically misguided[11], asking how this could be the case if the Prophet salla

Allhualayhwasalam said: Ifthe people of Shaam corrupt, there is no good in you.The Sheikh adds:

The behaviour of many elements in ISIS including leaders consistently is offensive towards the people of Syria

and itsMujhidn, accusing them of misguidance in belief and action. He further said: They moreover

repeatedly accuse the people of Syria and the Free Syrian Army (FSA) of disbelief (Kufr). The Sheikh also

argued that ISIS cannot be theoretically classified asKhawrijalthough practically this may be the case since

they throw around accusations of disbelief without evidence and without understanding the gravity of such a

charge. Rather, they may indict someone as a disbeliever merely on the grounds of disagreeing with them.

Many of them believe that the people of Syria are originally apostates before creating justifications to this

effect, raising weapons in their faces for the most trivial of matters.

Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Tarifi:

Sheikh al-Tarifi is a Researcher in the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in Riyadh. The Sheikh is deeply erudite

in the sciences of Islam, known for his profound ability to retrieve evidences and issue meticulous verdicts.

Among his teachers are Sheikh Abdul Aziz b. Abdullah b. Baz, Faqih Abdullah b. Abdul Aziz b. Aqeel andSheikh Muhammad b. al-Hasan al-Shanqeeti. The sheikh has an extensive number of printed works.[12]

He states:

It is impermissible for anyone to make his group or party a milestone against which loyalty and hostility are

measured, such that he believes that allegiance and leadership should belong to him exclusively. Whoever

believes that sole allegiance applies to him (or his party) from amongst all Muslims, then upon him apply the

words of Allh: Verily, those who divide their religion and break up into sects (all kinds of religious sects), you

(O Muhammad sallaAllhalayhwasalam) have no concern in them in the least.[13]The Sheikh added: it is

incorrect that while in a state of fighting and factions that one group should request individual and general

allegiance and all that it entails. The allegiance is to theJihd, constancy, patience and reform. It is incorrectthat one individual who leads a particular faction to call himselfAmral-Muminn(the leader of the Believers),

rather he should call himself the leader of the army, the battalion or the battle. General leadership is

determined byShr(consultation) between believers, not for an individual to assume. Titles cause exclusivity

that can lead to dispute, conflict, strife and evil [Therefore], participating with ISIS so long as it does not

agree with the law of Allh, independent of it is impermissible.


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Sheikh Sulaiman b. Nasser al-Alwan:

The Sheikh began pursuing knowledge at the age of fifteen. He has written comprehensive explanations of

Hadthbooks including Sahhal-Bukhari, JmiAbIssa al-Tirmidhi, Sunan AbDwd,MuwataMlik

among many others.[14] He quotes:

Al-Baghdadi is not theKhalfahof the Muslims for him to do whatever he pleases; rather he is a leader of afaction. Requesting a pledge of allegiance, killing those who refuse is the action of an aggressor, not the action

of a person of good and righteousness. He further said: If his own leader does not agree with his actions, how

can he expect allegiance from others?

Sheikh Muhammad b. Salih al-Munajjid:

Sheikh Mohammad al-Munajjid is a renowned scholar of Islam with an array of recognised works

(including IslamQA.com). His teachers include Sheikh Abdul Aziz b. Abdullah b. Baz, Sheikh Abdullah b.

Abdul Rahman b. Jibreen and Sheikh Abdul Rahman al-Barrak. He is currently the immof the Mosque of

Omar b. Abdul Aziz al-Khobar.[15] He says:

If a group thinks, for example, that it has established the Islamic state, its leader is the Leader of the Believers,

that he should be listened to and obeyed by everyone, that anyone not under his command has rebelled against

him, that [this state] has the authority to draw up borders, elect leaders over towns, that it has authority over

public wealth, petrol, wheat and so on, that others should forcefully submit to them while they can stop whoever

they want, that they have the sole authority of establishing Islamic courts and judges and that every court

besides theirs is void, it has deviated. This will no doubt create competition over control of regions and

eventually lead to a great Fitnah and bloodshed.

Sheikh Abu Muhammad al-Maqdisi:

Sheikh Muhammad al-Maqdisi is considered the guide of the JihadistSalafistmovement in Jordan. His

name is Issam Barqawi but is famously known as Abu Muhammad al-Maqdisi. Far from siding with

ISIS,[16]he says in a letter to the Mujhidnof Syria after hearing of ISIS and their behaviour with other

fighters:

and we do not feel ashamed to declare that we are free from the actions of those who dare spill the blood of

Muslims whoever they may be. He further added: How can you be expected to accommodate all Syrians

including Christians and other sects [if you cannot even accommodate other Muslims]?

Dr. Hassan Saleh b. Hamid:

Dr. Hassan Saleh has a PhD in the principles of Fiqh and Sharah,he is the Director of the Institute of

Higher Islamic Education at the Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah and is a Member of the (Islamic)

Advisory council.[17] He says:

No one going to Syria to fight is excused to be part of al-Baghadis faction for even a moment they are a

faction that brings Fitnah, whenever they are called to a court for religious arbitration they turn away andwhenever a truce is declared, they reignite the war.


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Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Fawzan:

Sheikh Abdul Aziz al-Fawzan is a member of the Council for Human Rights, a Professor in Islamic

Jurisprudence and the Head of the Department of Comparative Jurisprudence at the Islamic University of

Imam Muhammad b. Saud in Saudi Arabia.[18] He says:

ISIS is a rogue, external criminal organisation. Whoever knows of what afflicted us in Iraq and Afghanistanand the blood that was spilled unjustly at the hands of some ignorant individuals in our nation will understand

the gravity of what is happening in Syria.

Dr. Abdul Karim Bakkar:

Dr. Abdul Karim Bakkar is one of the leading authors in the field of education and Islamic thought, who

seeks to provide a deep-rooted analysis into matters concerning Islamic civilisation, renaissance and

Dawah.He has more than 40 books in this area. Dr. Abdul Karim Bakkar is a member of the Advisory

Board for the Islam Today magazine (Riyadh).[19] He says:

I met a number of students of knowledge and Islamic jurists returning from Syria. I swear by the One besides

whom there is no god that the only thing they spoke about were the repulsive actions of ISIS and their crimes.

ISIS and the Assad regime are two faces of one evil.

Dr. Shafi al-Ajmi:

Dr. Al-Ajmi sought knowledge under the supervision of Sheikh Muhammad b. Saalih and Sheikh Yahya al-

Yahya. He studied at the University of Imam Muhammad b. Saud and is now theImmof al-Ghazali

Mosque in Kuwait.[20]He quotes:

I have not heard of a single scholar inside or outside of Syria who has praised this faction, had good suspicion

of them or defended them, rather they have unanimously agreed that they are aggressors. Al-Baghdadis aim,

since entering Syria is to weaken the fighters and he has indeed weakened al-Nusra Front and Ahraar al-

Shaam and continues to do so.

Sheikh Abu Basir al-Tartusi:

Sheikh Abu Basir al-Tartusi has played the effective role of the Syrian revolutionsMufti. It is said thatSheikh al-Tartusi was the first Arab fighter to travel to Afghanistan in 1981, accompanying Abdullah

Azzam on one of his trips. He has authored many books and is the founder of several of the revolutions

coordination groups.[21] He says:

The group known as ISIS are from the fanaticalKhawrij, rather they have surpassed theKhawrijin many of

their characteristics and actions, combining between fanaticism, aggression, hostility and shedding inviolable

blood. He further said: We call upon all sincere individuals who have been fooled by them while still with this

misguided group to severe their ties with it and to declare their freedom from it and its actions.


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Sheikh Abdullah Saad:

The Sheikh and notable Muhadtih Abdullah b. Abdul Rahman b. Mohammed Al-Saad Al-Mutairi is one of

those at the forefront of 20th

and 21st

century Muslim scholars. His teachers include, Sheikh Abdul Aziz b.

Baz, Sheikh Mohammed b. Saalih and Sheikh Abdullah b. Abdul Rahman al-Jibreen. He has authored tens

of books and has explanations of Bukhri,SunanAbDwd,Jmial-Tirmithi and others.[22]He says:I plea to whoever joined this faction (ISIS) to leave it and move away from it, and for its leaders to return to

the truth and to repent to Allh from the grave mistakes they have fallen into

Sheikh Abdullah al-Mahiseny:

Sheikh al-Mahiseny is a specialist in Islamic Jurisprudence, acquiring a PhD in Comparative Fiqh in the

subject: RulingsConcerning War Refugees in Islamic Jurisprudence.[23] He says:

By Allh, I have never witnessed the scholars who speak about matters ofJihdagree on criticising and

opposing a Muslim movement as they have agreed on condemning ISIS. Sheikh Mahiseny concluded by

saying: I implore you by Allh O Baghdadi to allow a general Islamic court mediate to uphold the injunctions

of Allh.

Sheikh Adnan Mohammed al-Aroor:

Sheikh Adnan al-Aroor is currently the Director of Research and Publishing in Riyadh. He grew up

seeking knowledge in Syria under several scholars including Sheikh al-Albani and Sheikh b. Baz.[24] He

is one of the most notable scholarly icons of the Syrian revolution and has a multitude of published works.

Sheikh al-Aroor says, directing his question at ISIS:

Did Allh set conditions that must be met before accepting that the Qurn arbitrate [in the affairs of

difference]? Then where did you get these conditions [that you set] from? Why do you leave military fronts such

as Homs and dedicate your efforts to the areas near the Turkish borders? Who are the people of religious

authority (ahl al-hal wal-aqd) who you consulted before establishing your state? Do you aim to overthrow the

sectarian dictator or to fight others [who want to achieve this]? What is your Islamic proof that justifies your

pledge to someone unknown?[25] He furthermore states: ISIS are eitherKhawrijor infiltrated by the

[Syrian] regime. It is composed of three groups of people: brutal Takfrs, wicked infiltrators and people

deceived by them.

The Scholars of Aleppo Front:

The Scholars of Aleppo Front issued a statement encouraging the sincere members of ISIS to leave this

faction and join the legitimate revolutionary forces in Syria for the crime that has been perpetrated by this

group, including:

Accusations of disbelief (takfr), their shedding of inviolable blood without a second thought, kidnappings and

documented armed robberies of weapons and ammunition from other rebel factions, their refusal to allow

theSharahto arbitrate between them and the other factions and sowing the seeds of discord between fighers.ISIStakfrsometimes extend to the entire population of Syria. This includes takfrboldly levelled at the Free


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Syrian Army, accusingAhraar al-Shaam that they are misguided Surrsand that al-Nusra Front have defied

their alleged Khalfah.[26]

A Joint Statement of 47 Scholars in Saudi Arabia

I ncluding Al-Ghunaymaan, Al-Umar,Al-Mahmoud and Al -Jalali Al-M ahmoud

The joint statement asserted that it is impermissible and of tyranny for one faction to impose itself as the

only holder of legitimacy and that it is necessary that all other groups pledge allegiance to it without

consulting the Muslims, otherwise they become of the Khawrijand their blood becomes permissible. It

argued that this is the main reason for divisions and internal fighting. Sheikh Hamoud b. Ali al-Omari

added: The reality of the matter is, every drop of blood shed between the (rebel) factions in Syria is due to

al-Baghdadis refusal to allow theSharahto arbitrate while implementing his own innovated Sharah.

There is no act, the punishment for which has been mentioned more sternly than that of killing a believer

intentionally where a collection of five severe retributions have been listed:

But whoever kills a believer intentionally his recompense is Hell, wherein he will abide eternally, and Allh

has become angry with him and has cursed him and has prepared for him a great punishment.[27]

Conclusion

Above are only some of the verdicts issued against ISIS by Muslim scholars. Such an agreement between

scholars, analysts and intellectuals across the board should shake the heart of any individual who has

participated in hampering the revolutionary effort while imposing an innovated ideology on its people.

This neither pleases Allh nor is it to the betterment of Syria. Syrians are in no need of further repression.

Sincere individuals who have joined ISIS believing it endorses the true purpose of Islam should rush to

change course and avoid further gambling with their permanent abode, and with a Syrian future that

balances on a knifes edge.


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[1]http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/growing-fears-over-britons-radicalised-in-syrian-

conflict-9132268.html[2]http://www.islam21c.com/politics/8744-a-plea-from-syria/[3]http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/01/07/Al-Qaeda-groups-fight-each-other-in-Syria.html[4]http://www.thejournal.ie/syria-aid-workers-missing-1249026-Jan2014/

[5]http://eldorar.net/science/article/9246[6]http://www.almokhtsar.com/news/Title/author:

/

[7]http://www.islam21c.com/politics/association-of-syrian-scholars-on-isils-actions/[8]http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-islamic-state-of-iraq-and-the-levant-isil-vs-syrias-moderate-al-qaeda-

terrorists/5365981[9]http://syriageneva2.org/?p=242&lang=en[10]http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-27947343[11]http://aseft-alshamal.org/?p=1107[12]http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/1223[13] Al-Qurn 6:159[14]http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/245

[15]http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/44[16]http://www.aljazeera.net/news/pages/84a822d8-0f92-4ed0-8225-972bccf35cdc[17]http://ibnhomaid.af.org.sa/[18]https://twitter.com/Abdulazizfawzan[19]http://www.drbakkar.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=55&Itemid=53[20]http://islam-call.com/authors/v/id/1228/[21]http://www.al-akhbar.com/node/201838[22]http://www.alssad.com/publish/article_39.shtml[23]http://mhesne.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=59&Itemid=121[24]https://www.paldf.net/forum/showthread.php?t=614220[25]http://albadee.net/news/12989/[26]http://halabnews.com/news/42813

[27] Qurn 4:93
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/growing-fears-over-britons-radicalised-in-syrian-conflict-9132268.htmlhttp://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/growing-fears-over-britons-radicalised-in-syrian-conflict-9132268.htmlhttp://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/growing-fears-over-britons-radicalised-in-syrian-conflict-9132268.htmlhttp://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/growing-fears-over-britons-radicalised-in-syrian-conflict-9132268.htmlhttp://www.islam21c.com/politics/8744-a-plea-from-syria/http://www.islam21c.com/politics/8744-a-plea-from-syria/http://www.islam21c.com/politics/8744-a-plea-from-syria/http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/01/07/Al-Qaeda-groups-fight-each-other-in-Syria.htmlhttp://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/01/07/Al-Qaeda-groups-fight-each-other-in-Syria.htmlhttp://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/01/07/Al-Qaeda-groups-fight-each-other-in-Syria.htmlhttp://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/01/07/Al-Qaeda-groups-fight-each-other-in-Syria.htmlhttp://www.thejournal.ie/syria-aid-workers-missing-1249026-Jan2014/http://www.thejournal.ie/syria-aid-workers-missing-1249026-Jan2014/http://www.thejournal.ie/syria-aid-workers-missing-1249026-Jan2014/http://eldorar.net/science/article/9246http://eldorar.net/science/article/9246http://eldorar.net/science/article/9246http://www.almokhtsar.com/news/http://www.almokhtsar.com/news/http://www.almokhtsar.com/news/http://www.islam21c.com/politics/association-of-syrian-scholars-on-isils-actions/http://www.islam21c.com/politics/association-of-syrian-scholars-on-isils-actions/http://www.islam21c.com/politics/association-of-syrian-scholars-on-isils-actions/http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-islamic-state-of-iraq-and-the-levant-isil-vs-syrias-moderate-al-qaeda-terrorists/5365981http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-islamic-state-of-iraq-and-the-levant-isil-vs-syrias-moderate-al-qaeda-terrorists/5365981http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-islamic-state-of-iraq-and-the-levant-isil-vs-syrias-moderate-al-qaeda-terrorists/5365981http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-islamic-state-of-iraq-and-the-levant-isil-vs-syrias-moderate-al-qaeda-terrorists/5365981http://syriageneva2.org/?p=242&lang=enhttp://syriageneva2.org/?p=242&lang=enhttp://syriageneva2.org/?p=242&lang=enhttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-27947343http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-27947343http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-27947343http://aseft-alshamal.org/?p=1107http://aseft-alshamal.org/?p=1107http://aseft-alshamal.org/?p=1107http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/1223http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/1223http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/1223http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/245http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/245http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/245http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/44http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/44http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/44http://www.aljazeera.net/news/pages/84a822d8-0f92-4ed0-8225-972bccf35cdchttp://www.aljazeera.net/news/pages/84a822d8-0f92-4ed0-8225-972bccf35cdchttp://www.aljazeera.net/news/pages/84a822d8-0f92-4ed0-8225-972bccf35cdchttp://ibnhomaid.af.org.sa/http://ibnhomaid.af.org.sa/http://ibnhomaid.af.org.sa/https://twitter.com/Abdulazizfawzanhttps://twitter.com/Abdulazizfawzanhttps://twitter.com/Abdulazizfawzanhttp://www.drbakkar.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=55&Itemid=53http://www.drbakkar.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=55&Itemid=53http://www.drbakkar.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=55&Itemid=53http://islam-call.com/authors/v/id/1228/http://islam-call.com/authors/v/id/1228/http://islam-call.com/authors/v/id/1228/http://www.al-akhbar.com/node/201838http://www.al-akhbar.com/node/201838http://www.al-akhbar.com/node/201838http://www.alssad.com/publish/article_39.shtmlhttp://www.alssad.com/publish/article_39.shtmlhttp://www.alssad.com/publish/article_39.shtmlhttp://mhesne.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=59&Itemid=121http://mhesne.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=59&Itemid=121http://mhesne.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=59&Itemid=121https://www.paldf.net/forum/showthread.php?t=614220https://www.paldf.net/forum/showthread.php?t=614220https://www.paldf.net/forum/showthread.php?t=614220http://albadee.net/news/12989/http://albadee.net/news/12989/http://albadee.net/news/12989/http://halabnews.com/news/42813http://halabnews.com/news/42813http://halabnews.com/news/42813http://halabnews.com/news/42813http://albadee.net/news/12989/https://www.paldf.net/forum/showthread.php?t=614220http://mhesne.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=59&Itemid=121http://www.alssad.com/publish/article_39.shtmlhttp://www.al-akhbar.com/node/201838http://islam-call.com/authors/v/id/1228/http://www.drbakkar.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=55&Itemid=53https://twitter.com/Abdulazizfawzanhttp://ibnhomaid.af.org.sa/http://www.aljazeera.net/news/pages/84a822d8-0f92-4ed0-8225-972bccf35cdchttp://ar.islamway.net/scholar/44http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/245http://ar.islamway.net/scholar/1223http://aseft-alshamal.org/?p=1107http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-27947343http://syriageneva2.org/?p=242&lang=enhttp://www.globalresearch.ca/the-islamic-state-of-iraq-and-the-levant-isil-vs-syrias-moderate-al-qaeda-terrorists/5365981http://www.globalresearch.ca/the-islamic-state-of-iraq-and-the-levant-isil-vs-syrias-moderate-al-qaeda-terrorists/5365981http://www.islam21c.com/politics/association-of-syrian-scholars-on-isils-actions/http://www.almokhtsar.com/news/http://eldorar.net/science/article/9246http://www.thejournal.ie/syria-aid-workers-missing-1249026-Jan2014/http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/01/07/Al-Qaeda-groups-fight-each-other-in-Syria.htmlhttp://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2014/01/07/Al-Qaeda-groups-fight-each-other-in-Syria.htmlhttp://www.islam21c.com/politics/8744-a-plea-from-syria/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/growing-fears-over-britons-radicalised-in-syrian-conflict-9132268.htmlhttp://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/growing-fears-over-britons-radicalised-in-syrian-conflict-9132268.html


12/19

Do we go for Jihad in Syria?

All praises be to Allah and may peace and blessings be upon the Prophet.

The situation in Syria undeniably compels every human being, let alone every Muslim, to help those who

currently face one of the most brutal regimes on earth. Allah says:

Thebelievers are nothing else than brothers (in faith).[1]

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

TheMuslim is the brother of his fellow-Muslim; he does not wrong him or abandon.[2]

In another narration the wording has it, anddoes not forsake him.[3]

al-Hafidh ibn Hajr al-Asqalani, the famous commentator on Sahih al-Bukhari wrote, He does not abandon

himmeans he does not leave him with someone who could harm him, or in a situation where he could be harmed,

but instead helps him and defends himItmay be obligatory or recommended, depending on the situation.Ibnal-Athir in his book Jamil-Usul fil-ahadithwrote, Abandoning someonerefers to when he leaves him to his fate

and does not protect him from his enemy.

The famous Shafiischolar, al-Nawawi, wrote, And he does not forsake himthe scholars have said forsaking

means failing to help and support. What this means is that when a person is asked for help to ward off an

oppressor and the like, he is obligated to help him if it is possible and where he has no legitimate shariiexcuse

(for not doing so).

Recently, and in many circles, discussions have begun in relation to the Islamic ruling on participating in military

fighting, Jihad, in Syria. The fact that people are concerned with the affairs of the ummah is a great blessing as it

shows that many still have a deep connection with Allah and a strong belief in tawheed. It also shows that they

righteously seek to worship Allah by aiding the oppressed Jihad is one of the most virtuous acts to Allah. There

are numerous verses in the Quran which establish the virtue of Jihad. For example, He, the Most High states:

Howmany of the prophets fought and with them (fought) large bands of godly men? But they never lost heart if

they met with disaster in Allahsway, nor did they weaken (in will) nor give in. And Allah loves those who are firm

and steadfast [in battle].[4]

Thosewho have believed, emigrated and strove hard and fought in AllahsCause with their wealth and their

lives have the highest rank with Allah. They are the successful.[5]

Additionally, Abu Hurairah narrates that the Prophet (peace be upon him) was asked as to which action was

greatest. He replied, Faithin Allah.He was asked, thenwhat?He replied, Jihadin his path.He was asked,

then what? He replied, An accepted pilgrimage.[6]According to the hadith of Abu Dharr who asked the

Prophet as to which action was greatest, the Prophet (peace be upon him) replied, Faithin Allah and Jihad in

His path.[7]

Having established the virtue of jihad and its lofty station in Islam, we must now analyse a number of issues that

are repeatedly neglected by most of those who explore this topic.

Firstly, it should be established that due to the complex nature of conflicts that occur in modern times, attaining

victory is not merely a matter of success on the battlefield. Wars are fought on many fronts politics, the media

and economics are all but examples. While many may argue that these mediums are merely a way to deceive the

masses, we are forced to recognise this fact since the Quran establishes it. For example, Allah considered

financial forms of jihad an essential aspect of combat all Quranic verses pertaining to Jihad except one mention


13/19

those who perform Jihad firstly with their wealth and then physically. The Prophet (peace be upon him) used

popular mediums that would now function in the form of media, such as encouraging Hassan ibn Thabit to

perform poetry to give confidence to the people. Military victory is very much dependent on gaining the upper

hand in these realms as well. A strong army but with low morale or insufficient strategic planning can be defeated

easily. It has been seen in our times that political and media engagement can achieve more than guns andbullets. Altering ideological or political views of people is in many cases more effective than ending their lives.

Winning over hearts is far better than burying them.

Secondly, based on the above point, it may be noted that help given to Muslims should not be limited to

participation in physical combat. There are many effective ways to aid the Syrians such as facilitating their cause

through the media and other channels of engagement. Helping them financially is a key factor for the continuity of

their struggle. Thousands of orphans, widows and the disabled are left with no support. Medical aid either by

sending medical equipment or paying for doctors to provide relief is one of the greatest forms of support that the

Syrians need.

Thirdly, participating in physical Jihad becomes compulsory in certain circumstances, and on certain people. A

very basic example of obligatory physical Jihad is when the enemies of Islam attack Muslims or Muslim lands

where there arentenough men to defend their lives and/or their land. However, if there are sufficient numbers

but they simply lack other resources to defend themselves, other forms of jihad become compulsory. If there is a

lack of finance, then financial Jihad becomes the obligatory form of Jihad upon those who can afford it. The

principles which must be kept in mind when helping the needy people of Syria are that a) the necessary

resources should be provided, and b) in a way that is likely to lift the calamity. Failing to observe these two

conditions might add to the problem rather than solving it.

The regime in Syria is one of the most inhuman and tyrannical regimes in the world, having been engaged in a

war against Islam and Muslims for decades. The number of Muslims who have been killed by Hafiz al-Assad, the

father of Bashar al-Assad, exceeds the number of Muslims killed by the Israelis. History can never forget the

women raped by the army of Hafiz in Hamah and other cities in 1982. However, the son is no better than his

father. This regime, in both periods, has waged war against Sunnis carrying out religious cleansing in every

possible way. Thus there is no doubt that Muslims in Syria fight to defend their religion and protect their lives,

honour and dignity. According to all Muslim scholars defending the religion is a fundamental reason for Jihad.

Defending life and honour also takes the ruling of Jihad. Allah says,

Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed,

Allah is competent to give them victory. [They are] those who have been evicted from their homes without right

only because they say, Our Lord is Allah. And were it not that Allah checks the people, some by means of

others, there would have been demolished monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques in which the name

of Allah is much mentioned. And Allah will surely support those who support Him. Indeed, Allah is Powerful

and Exalted in Might.[8]

With all that has been discussed, it is evident that both military and non-combative Jihad in Syria is compulsory

upon the Syrian Muslims. The question that follows is: what is the ruling of jihad upon Muslims who live beyond

Syria?

It is well established in Islamic jurisprudence that if the Muslims of a certain region are attacked and unable to

protect their lives, honour, land, or the sovereignty of their faith, then it is incumbent upon other Muslims to

provide them with whatever support is needed.


14/19

As is evident, the purpose of this obligation is to lift their afflictions. Hence the ruling is based on a legal cause

(illah) which is to do that which leads to elevating the calamity that has befallen them. It is known (and quite

logical) that in the absence of the basis of a ruling, the ruling itself becomes non-existent. For example, if the

military participation of a disabled person will bring about losses for the Muslims then the disabled Muslim must

desist from engaging in combat so as not to harm the efforts of the Mujahideen. Similarly, it is completelyunjustifiable for a Muslim to participate in combat where he might cause harm to the Mujahideenmerely because

he seeks martyrdom (rather than the greater goal of victory for the believers).

It has been confirmed by scholars and military personnel living in Syria that they have no need for foreign Muslim

men intending to join the cause. I have personally contacted a number of scholars, activists, and students of

knowledge as well as a Syrian scholar (who is a member of a board of scholars and activists) in order to consult

with him in regards to those who wish to travel to Syria to aid in repelling the oppressive regime. He informed me

that they urge foreign brothers not to travel to Syria to participate in military activity. He stated firstly that that this

is the opinion of the vast majority of scholars and activists in Syria (that they do not need men), and secondly,

such participation will lead to many problems that are evident to those who know the situation from inside. In

other words, the obligation of Jihad for Muslims outside of Syria is of a non-combative nature. This is what they

inherently need, and in the situation, this is the effectual form of engagement.

I know that many Muslim men are keen to help their Syrian brethren; indeed, this noble feeling is an obligation

upon us. However, we should look to help them in the way that they needand not in the way we assume. We

should be careful not to misleadingly veil our own desires for martyrdom with expressions such as helping our

Muslims brothers and sisterswhich will ultimately cause more harm to their cause. I am also concerned about

the intention of some of those who travel, who desire to fight out of a sense of frustration many Muslims feel due

to the beleaguered state of the Ummah. Although some may find it difficult to digest, the reality of the situation is

that, as it stands; to travel to Syria intending to participate in jihad without the express permission of

the recognisedSyrian revolutionary leaders is closer to sin than virtue. It is not allowed to interfere into

someonesaffairs without his clear approval and furthermore, it is totally prohibited to do anything that may cause

harm to others.

The possibility of incurring sin becomes greater when a person abandons his immediate family for whom he is

directly responsible, or leaves his parents grieving in the wake of his departure. Abdullahibn Amr(may Allah be

pleased with them both) said, Aman came to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and asked

for his permission to go for jihad. He said, Areyour parents alive?He said, Yes.He said, thenyour jihad is with

them.[9]According to another report, a man came and said, OMessenger of Allah, I have come to participate

in jihad with you. I came and my parents were weeping.He said, Goback and make them smile as you have

made them weep.[10]

It was also reported from Abu Saeed (may Allah be pleased with him) that a man migrated to the Prophet

(peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) from Yemen. He [the Prophet] said, Doyou have anyone in the

Yemen?He said, Myparents.He said, Didthey give you permission?He said, No.He said, Thengo back to

them and ask their permission. If they give you permission, then go for Jihad, otherwise honour them.[11]

As I have already stated, the leaders of the Syrian uprising have not yet called for the involvement of external

personnel in any military activity and thus have declined to co-ordinate the arrival of foreigners. Those who do go,

join small unorganized units under the leadership of an individual who normally coordinates with like-minded

people in isolation from a centralised authority recognised by the local people. This eventually leads to many

internal conflicts whilst causing more immediate strategic problems. Additionally, these small groups lack the

presence of qualified scholars able to provide impartial and well formulated legal guidance, and as a result they

fall into many shariierrors. In fact, it has been confirmed that such conflicts provide fertile grounds for developing


15/19

ideas and views alien to the shariah. Such ideas include participating in activities that involve the killing or

harming of innocent people who are protected by the covenant of the shariahitself. It has been also witnessed

that some brothers develop a very narrow-minded mentality by which they see everything through the medium of

combat rendering them unable to participate in any productive non-combative activity once they return to their

home countries. They eventually become receptive to many unIslamic ideas that promote an incorrectconceptualisation of combative Jihad.

We must learn from the past. Whenever incidents like this take place, many nations of an imperialist design use

the situation to their own benefit. For example, they might infiltrate the cause and pit some of the

foreignMujahideenwho are unaware of the social and political situation in the occupied land against

local Mujahideen. These powers then monitor these brothers who have left for jihad until they return to their own

respective countries and then manipulate them or use them for their own political agenda. This has been the

case with many brothers who participated in Jihad against the communists in Afghanistan and Chechnya. Whilst

many governments have refrained from addressing the issue of Jihadin Syria (since it is not in their favour to

make it an issue at the moment), it is undoubtedly a matter of time until the entire context will be used in some

bad intentioned way.

Finally, I ask Allah Almighty to make the imminent month of Ramadan a month of mercy and victory for Muslims

in Syria, Myanmar (Burma), and wherever else they are oppressed.

[1] al-Hujuraat 49:10[2] Narrated by al-Bukhari, 2442; Muslim, 2580.

[3] Muslim 2546

[4] Aali Imran 3:146

[5] al-Tawbah 9:20

[6] Narrated by al-Bukhari and Muslim

[7] ibid

[8] al-Hajj 22:39-40

[9] Narrated by al-Bukhari, 4/18

[10] Narrated by Ahmad, 2/160; Abu Dawood, 3/38

[11] Narrated by Ahmad, 3/75-76; Abu Dawood, 3/39


16/19

The Caliphate of al-BaghdadiAnnouncement

from Syrian Scholars

The following is an approximate translation of a statement released by Hayatal-Shmal-Islmiyyah,

theIslamic Sham Association. It is an independent body that carries out various relief and educational

work which also includes a fatwa and research department to issue fatwas concerning Syrian affairs. Its

members include a number of Syrian scholars and activists.

The official announcement from the Hayatal-Shmal-Islmiyyahof Syrian scholars on the

Caliphateof al-Baghdadi

All praises are due to Allh the Lord of the worlds and there exists no enmity except towards the

oppressors. May peace and blessings be upon Mohammadsalla Allhualayhwasalam who came with

clear truth and may peace and blessings be upon his family, his companions and all of those who followhim until the last day.

Trials and tribulations continue to arrive in succession, afflicting the Muslims until the MuslimUmmahis

purified just as the fire removes impurities from Iron. The most recent of these trials is the declaration of a

Khilfahor an Islamic Caliphate, announced by al-Baghdadis group. This follows the countless wounds

afflicted on the people of Syria; killing, Takfr(accusations of disbelief), intended hindrance of their

revolution and Jihdand breaking apart their unity.

We never thought that such a hollow and void claim would require a public statement in response, but al-

Baghdadis group have mastered the art of public deception through magnifying their organisation in both

status and number and by hijacking the victories of others. This has been exacerbated by the media,

portraying the entire revolution as one led by ISIS in a general attempt to discredit the sincereMujhidn.

These events need to be leant the full consciousness of every individual, and bring forth new

responsibilities on scholars and analysts wherever they may be. Remaining silent or looking for excuses is

no longer an option, but rather it is now incumbent upon everyone to speak the truth like never before.

The invalidity of this Caliphatecan be seen from a number of angles:

1. The declaration of the Caliphate was by a dissident group that practicesTakfrand sheds blood as

religion in and of itself. This methodology is totally perverted from the example of the ProphetsallaAllhu

alayhwasalam who taught the Ummahtrue leadership and how to establish a noble anduprightKhilfah(KhilfahRshida), exemplified by his companions.

2. The absence of the (necessary) elements that compose a state, both legally and by what is understood

through custom. Even if they truly had authority in the land and prevalence they would have appeared in

person, thus they are closer to being a gang than a state.

3. The unilateral declaration of Khilfahwithout the consultation of scholars or the Muslims in general,

due to al-Baghdadis groups belief that they are exclusively the people of Shura while others are apostates

or members of Sahwas. Such unilateral action totally disregards and undermines the authority of the

whole Muslim nation. Umarradiy Allhuanhusaid: Whoever gives the pledge of allegiance to a man

without the consultation of the Muslims should not be given the pledge of allegiance, nor should the one

who he gave it to out of deception, lest they will both be killed.[1] Ibn Hajar may Allh mercy on him


17/19

said inFathul-Bri: this means, whoever does this, has deceived himself and his companion, subjecting

both to the possibility of being killed.

4. The forcing of people to give al-Baghdadi the pledge of allegiance while it has not been given to them in

the first place. They said that due to the declaration of theKhilfahit has become incumbent upon all

Muslims to swear allegiance to it and to give victory to Ibrahim and that he has become the leaderand Khalfahof Muslims everywhere! They added,whoever wants to cause division should be shot in

the head, whoever it may be without dignity.

5. The appointment of a completely unknown Khalfah (apart from his name), not recognised by any

scholar nor the masses of his own group let alone the majority of all Muslims, completely disregarding the

conditions set out by the scholars that form a leader. This is a form of ridicule towards the Ummah, and is

similar to the behaviour of dictatorships.

6. The overturning of al-Baghdadis original commitment of allegiance to his leader Ayman al-Zawahiri.

Previously al-Baghdadi had said: We owe it to God that you are our governor and upon us is to listen and

obey as long as we live. Al-Zawahiri had long issued an instruction to abolish ISIS in Syria. Will

treachery, betrayal and failed promises be the first thing the Khalfahof the Muslims gets up to?

The following are some of the countless evils, calamities and tribulations brought about on the

Muslims by this illegal declaration:

1. Announcing a Caliphate in this manner demolishes the real purpose of the Caliphate which is to

preserve the sanctity of Islm and govern the land by it. It furthermore distorts the image of Islm by

showing that its system revolves around killing, criminality and savouring the cutting off of heads and

hands.2. Considering that the whole Ummah has committed an offence by not pledging allegiance to the

unknown Caliph, therefore permitting that it is fought and that its blood is shed if it refuses to subdue

itself. Allegiance can only be for someone who is followed by the majority of people and by whom the

matters of the general public are rectified. This is what is intended by theHadith: Whoever dies without

having given bayah(a pledge of allegiance) has died in a state of ignorance.[2] Thisbayahcannot be

imposed by a group that does not recognise the Ummah to start with, nor does it recognise its past or

present scholars.

3. Weakening the Muslims and scaling back their victories in Iraq and Syria, creating dissension between

them and preoccupying them from fighting their main sectarian enemy.

4. Disabling efforts in Dawah,education,Jihdand aid carried out by the groups and battalions that do

not fall under its banner.

5. Strengthening the enemies of Islm in Muslimcountries and giving them the excuse to appropriate

Muslim countries all over again. The policy of these people is to support this Caliphate model by

facilitating its expansion, easing the delivery of weapons to it and helping it to surround territories held by

other fighters. Their expansion will then be used as an excuse to demolish and split apart Sunniregions,

before turning against the rest of the Muslims under the guise of fighting terror and extremism.


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It becomes an obligation upon everyone to stand in the face of this major violation, the first of whom

should be the people of knowledge and deep insight who must take initiative in the following

matters:

1. Clarifying the concept of an Islamic Caliphate and that it cannot come about except in accordance withthe set, patterned Laws of Allh concerning the nature of victory and the emergence and establishment of

states. It is not merely an allegation that can be adopted by anyone without the presence of its means or

components. Outward names and proceedings are not conditions to establishing the Religion of Allh in a

state. It is furthermore impermissible for people to rush to establishing rule without its necessary

constituents or to claim that leadership is exclusively to them or to their group. Historically, many liars and

imposters have claimed to be prophets, Caliphs and theMahdi.

2. Confirming the illegality of this declaration due to the aforementioned and because those who have

declared it are dissident Khawrijwho have divided the Ummah. It is impermissible to submit to their will

and only permitted to a conquering leader who strives to protect the Muslims. This group moreover

possess no authority and surrendering to them will only spill more blood. It is attributed to some of their

leaders that they said regarding the noble Mujhidn: Our drink is their blood and our entertainment is the

removal of their limbs.

3. Clarifying the strategic damage this declaration puts the Ummah at due to the aforementioned.

4. Educating people about the actions of the Khawrijhistorically, their role in weakening the best of the

previous generations, their hindering of Islamic expeditions, their fighting against Muslims and their

abandonment of non-Muslim enemies in addition to their treachery towards their own kind.

5. Explaining the role of the Khawrijtoday, exemplified in al-Baghdadis state starting with their

denunciation of scholars, the headship of their ignorant and in the most deviant people penetrating their

ranks including some Shiites whohave become part of their leadership. Their battles on some fronts andtheir war against thieves and outlaws do not legitimise them, just as the abundant Salhand Qurndid not

legitimise the earlier Khawrij.

Secondly, the responsibility is upon the Mujhidnand leaders of the revolution who have earned the

trust of the people. The deliverance, after Allh,is reliant on them, and their duty is as follows:

1. To stick firmly to the scholars, striving to constantly seek their counsel and that of experts across many

disciplines. The aim should be to form a common vision and to form an action plan that deals with this

calamity and its implications.

2. To give foremost priority to agreement and unity, expending all means to meet this objective and to

pledge allegiance to Islam above any group or faction, dealing with others on the basis of truth and

patience.

3. To be determined and resolute in removing this malicious group from Muslim lands with no hesitation

to do so. Nonetheless, to balance between fighting them and fighting the main enemy, subject to

circumstances. Never should something apparent fool the fighting factions and never should the effect of

(unsound) ideology be neglected.


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The third group is the Muslim youth whom we advise for the sake of Allhwith what follows:

1. To be patient with regards to what is happening and to ask scholars and people of knowledge about the

confusing matters. Muslim youth should know that there is not a single scholar in the ranks of al-Baghdadithat the Muslim Ummah testifies to (the knowledge of). Ibn Abbsradiy Allhuanhusaid to the ancestors

of these people from the Khawrij,exposing their ignorance: I came to you from amongst the companions

of the Messenger of AllhsallaAllhualayhwasalam, theMuhjirnand the Ansr,to tell you what they

say. Upon them the Quran was revealed. They are more knowledgeable concerning the revelation than

you and amongst you there is not a single one of them.[3]

2. To avoid being dragged towards emotions or behind the glorification (of this group) by the media. It is

now clearer than ever that ISIS uses lies and fraud while copying the Shiites in theirTaqiyya, concealing

the truth of their matters.

3. To rest assured that the Caliphate declared by ISIS is invalid since they are far away from the prophetic

methodology in both form and substance. ISIS is an oppressive group, one that has transgressed from the

Path of Allh. Allh gives theKhilfahto those who believe and do righteous deeds. Not to those who kill

the Muslims and leave others.

4. To revere the people of knowledge, to defend them and not to accuse them of being envious to al-

Baghdadis faction, competitors of it, against the establishment of a Caliphate or subdued by dictators. All

of this is slander.

5. To maintain the instructions of Allh concerning lives, and to be patient before any resulting harm,

repelling falsehood and being wary of the whispers of the Shaytnin confining the commandments of

Allh to be all about dying for His sake as opposed to living for His sake. Martyrdom is through Divine

selection by Allh, not a decision that can be taken by the individual.

Finally, our advice to all of the Muslims who compose the Ummah and are its pillars, is as follows:

1. To expose the reality of this group and its danger upon the Ummah to the layman, as much as one is

able.

2. To be careful where your charity is going. You are responsible for this and the genuine charities are well

known.

3. Your children are your responsibility and each and every one of you is responsible for his flock.[4]

Look after them and ensure that they do not join this heretical group, thus becoming a tool in the hands of

criminals which will be used to fight the Muslims.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah alone.

.

Notes:[1] Bukhri[2] Sahh al-Jmi al-Albni[3] Al-Hakim[4] Bukhri

on journalistic responsibility

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