Islamic Society of North America Condemns New Year's Attacks in Egypt and Nigeria, Sends Prayers and Condolences to all Affected

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   The Islamic Society of North America Condemns New Year's Attacks in Egypt and Nigeria; Sends Prayers and Condolences to All Affected Source: ISNA   (Plainfield, IN Jan 3, 2011)  The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) sends heartfelt prayers and condolences to the families and community members affected by the senseless January 1st attacks in Alexandria, Egypt and Abuja, Nigeria. It also condemns these barbaric acts that go against the very essence of every Godly teachings across religions. On Saturday, more than 20 people were killed and more than a hundred injured as they gathered outside of a church after prayer service in Alexandria.  In Abuja, more than 20 Christians and Muslims were killed and dozens more injured as they gathered to celebrate the New Year. "It is a sad day for all people when a simple act of worship or community celebration is marked by violence and innocent deaths.  ISNA asks Muslim community members and organizations in Egypt and Nigeria to lend support to the families who lost loved ones during these attacks and urges Muslim Americans to join them in prayer for God to ease the suffering of all those affected by this terrible tragedy," said ISNA President Imam Mohamed Magid. ISNA and the American Muslim community recognize that these acts of violence requires us to double our efforts in promoting religious harmony and the right of people to worship free from fear and violence everywhere in the world. "The small faction of fanatics that wish to ignite religious violence and strife across the world must not be allowed to succeed" said ISNA Secretary General Safaa Zarzour. "These bombings are absolutely reprehensible.  ISNA condemns any and all acts of violence against innocent civilians.  The attacks in Egypt and Nigeria are unacceptable and ISNA urges the Egyptian and Nigerian governments to take all measures to prosecute the individuals responsible for these heinous crimes swiftly and to the fullest measure.  We applaud President Obama's commitment to lend support from the United States to prosecute these individuals and bring peace to innocent civilians," said ISNA President Imam Mohamed Magid. ISNA is an association of Muslim organizations and individuals that provides a common platform for presenting Islam, supporting Muslim communities, developing educational, social and outreach programs and fostering good relations with other religious communities, and civic and service organizations.    -End- Contact: Sarah Thompson  ISNA Communications Coordinator           (o): 317-839-1816 (c): 317-679-6350 sthompson@isna.net