Imam calls out pro-Palestine rally comments as 'inappropriate'
A prominent Australian imam has said comments made at a pro-Palestinian rally at which another imam described October 7, 2023 as a "day of pride" and "victory" were inappropriate.
The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) President, Sheikh Shadi Asuleiman, has condemned the comments made by another imam, Sheikh Ibrahim Dadoun, at a pro-Palestinian rally in Sydney on October 8, 2023. Sheikh Ibrahim had described the day as a "day of pride" and "victory" following the terrorist attack on Israel by the Hamas group.
The ANIC President stated that such comments were inappropriate, especially during a time of heightened tension and when communities need to unite. Sheikh Ibrahim, who had previously resigned from his director position at the ANIC, was brought before the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion to explain his remarks.
The imam admitted that his language was a mistake and had acknowledged his errors. ANIC representatives emphasized that they believe in giving individuals the opportunity to rectify their mistakes and maintain their membership in the council. The commission heard that the ANIC had issued a joint statement with other Muslim organizations, which refuted media portrayals of Sheikh Ibrahim's speech as inciting anti-Palestinian sentiments.
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