The KAICIID Board of Directors, consisting of representatives of five religions – Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and Judaism – unanimously condemn the deliberate attack on peaceful worshippers at a mosque in Qatif province in Saudi Arabia on 22 May 2015.
The attack that killed and wounded scores of worshippers was committed deliberately to harm the worshipers because of their religious identity.
The murder of the worshippers by terrorists affiliated with ISIS in Qatif is a vicious and reprehensible crime. These violent and criminal acts can never be justified through religion. All those who believe in peace must speak out against these contemptible acts.
We extend our deepest condolences and sympathy to the victims’ families and community. Any form of prejudice must be rejected. Our community solidarity and universal human rights, in particular the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion, must be upheld in the interest of the common good and coexistence.
The KAICIID Board called upon all who treasure diversity and these universal rights to relentlessly pursue peace through dialogue to seek mutual respect.
In its November 2014 KAICIID and many religious leaders from diverse communities call upon all religious institutions and governments to actively work together to counter the narrative of those who commit acts of terrorism and bring them to justice.
KAICIID acts as a hub, facilitating interreligious and intercultural dialogue and understanding, to enhance cooperation and respect for diversity, justice and peace. The Centre provides leadership and programming to promote peace. It also serves as a worldwide platform for followers of different religions and cultures to foster cooperation and understanding. KAICIID is committed to working with those who use interreligious dialogue to build peace.