Ahmadiyya Community condemns the attack on several churches in Algeciras

The Ahmadiyya Community has issued an official statement condemning the recent attacks on several churches in Algeciras and reminding that "terrorists and fanatics are not defending Islam, but, on the contrary, defaming and defiling its name and teachings". The following is the communiqué of the Ahmadiyya Community:

The members of the Ahmadiyya Community of Islam in Spain are shocked and disturbed after yesterday's attack on several churches in Algeciras, after the murder of the sacristan David Valencia and after the serious aggression suffered by the priest Antonio Rodriguez. The Ahmadiyya Community of Islam considers this an outrageous and evil attack, which cannot be justified in any way or under any circumstances.

The teachings of the Holy Quran and the Founder of Islam, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) are teachings of peace, tolerance and love for humanity. The Quran states that killing an innocent person is tantamount to killing all of humanity (Quran 5:33). Throughout his life, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) condemned all forms of aggression, violence and injustice. He instructed his followers, should they have to fight a war in self-defence, not to harm any religious leader or place of worship, and not to attack innocent people - old people, women and children.

Today, there is no country or group waging a war against Islam. Muslims live freely in the West and can practise their own religion, so they should be grateful for these freedoms they enjoy. Consequently, the hatred manifested by terrorists and extremists is totally incomprehensible. These terrorists and fanatics are not defending Islam, but, on the contrary, defaming and defiling its name and teachings.

The Ahmadiyya Community of Islam offers its deepest condolences to the family of David Valencia and prays for the speedy recovery of Antonio Rodriguez. We share their grief and we share their outrage. We pray for peace in the world and for an end to all forms of terrorism, extremism and hatred.