Hawzah News Agency - The Muslim Community of New Zealand condemns in the strongest possible terms Thursday’s terror act in Nice and the murder of Samuel Paty earlier in the month.

Whilst reiterating the comments of the worldwide Head of the Muslim Community, Mr Bashir Khan, the National President of the Muslim Community New Zealand said, “We extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones of the victims and to the French nation. Our condemnation and hatred of such attacks is not something new but has always been our position and stance”.

“Our religion does not permit terrorism or extremism under any circumstances and anyone who claims otherwise acts against the teachings of the Holy Quran and contrary to the noble character of the Holy Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). We will spare no effort in our mission to foster a better understanding of the true and peaceful teachings of Islam in the world”.

Unfortunately, the reaction from French leaders have only stoked fires of division exacerbating the tensions between the Islamic world and the West, further undermining the peace and stability of the world. After the Christchurch mosque attacks, our Prime Minister led by example by encouraging unity, kindness, compassion and tolerance. This turned a moment of crisis to solidarity of a nation. We must all join together to root out all forms of extremism and to encourage mutual understanding and tolerance.