As a Muslim, I unequivocally condemn the Bondi Beach Hanukkah terror attack in Sydney, Australia.
In the wake of the tragedy, my faith leader, the worldwide head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, declared that nothing justifies violence and that Islam upholds the sanctity of human life. He further emphasized that opposition to the policies of the Israeli government regarding the Palestinians does not justify or excuse violence against innocent civilians.
I offer my prayers and heartfelt sympathy to the victims and their families.
I also commend the heroic actions of a Muslim bystander who, at great personal risk, intervened by tackling one of the perpetrators. The words of the leader of my faith and the actions of a Muslim Good Samaritan embody the essence of faith and affirm our shared humanity.
Dr. Sohail Husain
Mountain View, Calif.