Latest news with #MohammedAl-Issa
Saudi Gazette
3 days ago
- Politics
- Saudi Gazette
MWL chief delivers Stanford lecture on values amid global ideological conflicts
Saudi Gazette report CALIFORNIA — The Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL) and President of the Association of Muslim Scholars, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, delivered a keynote lecture at Stanford University titled 'Values in the Face of Contemporary Conflicts.' The lecture examined the root causes and dangers of ideological—both religious and intellectual—conflicts, emphasizing the importance of understanding, coexistence, and collaboration among diverse belief systems. Dr. Al-Issa distinguished between natural religious and intellectual differences that reflect life's reality and the more destructive ideological clashes that divide societies and nations, offering both diagnoses and proposed solutions. The event included an overview of international law and humanitarian law, with an analysis of their application in modern global crises. Dr. Al-Issa also outlined the MWL's global initiatives aimed at promoting peace, social cohesion, and value-based development, and provided an expanded discussion on Islamic principles, underlining the distinction between authentic Islamic teachings and misrepresentations by individuals or groups. A special emphasis was placed on the Makkah Charter, highlighting its Islamic consensus, foundational vision, and universal values. Following the lecture, Dr. Al-Issa engaged in an open Q&A session that included surveys and dialogue with the audience. In addition, Dr. Al-Issa met with several Silicon Valley business leaders to discuss topics related to the digital economy, Islamic economic regulations, AI ethics, and charitable work as tools for combating poverty. He also reviewed projects presented by 25 Stanford undergraduate students inspired by their recent visit to Makkah and Umrah during Ramadan. These initiatives, part of the 'Establishing the Muslim Life' program, explored ways to implement the values of the Makkah Charter globally. The event was attended by faculty, students, and invited guests from Stanford University. Many participants praised the depth and relevance of the lecture and proposed that the content be expanded into a university-published book.
Euronews
17-04-2025
- Politics
- Euronews
'We are against any form of hatred, no matter what manifestation it takes,' Al-Issa says
ADVERTISEMENT Extremism, Islamophobia, and the ongoing war in Gaza remain pressing concerns for the Arab and Islamic worlds and are increasingly drawing global attention and scrutiny. These issues not only affect the regions directly involved but also resonate with broader international communities concerned with peace, justice, and human rights. Muslims make up more than a third of the world's population, with significant minority communities living across Europe. These communities often face complex challenges within broader society, including discrimination, social exclusion, and cultural misunderstandings that can hinder integration and mutual respect. In an interview with The Europe Conversation, Euronews spoke with Sheikh Dr Mohammed Al-Issa, Secretary General of the Muslim World League, to discuss a wide range of religious, social, and political issues of shared concern between Europe and the Islamic world. Dr Al-Issa condemned all forms of hatred and division, strongly advocating for peaceful coexistence and encouraging Muslim minorities in Europe to actively contribute to the social, cultural, and economic fabric of their countries. Despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Dr Al-Issa remains hopeful and believes that through sincere dialogue, justice, and cooperation, Gaza will eventually regain its strength, stability, and dignity. Founded in 1962 and based in Mecca, the Muslim World League is an Islamic non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting Islam, tolerance, and interfaith dialogue. It is funded by Saudi Arabia and private donations.
Asharq Al-Awsat
04-04-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Muslim World League Condemns Israeli Airstrikes on Syrian Territory
The Muslim World League (MWL) strongly condemned the deadly Israeli airstrikes targeting several areas in Syria, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday. In a statement, MWL Secretary-General and Chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, Mohammed Al-Issa, condemned Israel's brutal approach in violating international laws and destabilizing security and stability in Syria and the region. He called on the international community to take immediate and firm action against these serious violations. He also emphasized unwavering solidarity with Syria and its people against anything that threatens its security, stability, territorial sovereignty, and unity.
Saudi Gazette
31-03-2025
- General
- Saudi Gazette
Albania hosts MWL chief for Eid sermon at largest mosque in the Balkans
Saudi Gazette report TIRANA — Albania hosted Sheikh Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL) and President of the Association of Muslim Scholars, to deliver the Eid Al-Fitr sermon at the Grand Mosque of Tirana — the largest mosque in Albania and the Balkans — in the presence of prominent Albanian scholars. Dr. Al-Issa began the sermon by extending his heartfelt congratulations to Muslims around the world on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr. He emphasized that Eid is a time of joy, renewal of faith, and unity, calling on worshippers to uphold Islamic values and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and community. He underscored the importance of forgiveness and harmony on this sacred day, stating that these noble values are not limited to Muslims but are universal and inclusive of all humanity. In his sermon, Dr. Al-Issa also emphasized the central role of the family as the cornerstone of every society, describing it as both the core and safeguard of a nation. He highlighted the significant role of women in nurturing and sustaining the family unit, praising their contributions to social and moral stability.
Saudi Gazette
14-03-2025
- Politics
- Saudi Gazette
Islamophobia threatens global peace and coexistence, not just Muslims, says MWL chief at UN
Saudi Gazette report NEW YORK — The United Nations General Assembly hosted Dr. Mohammed Al-Issa, Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL) and Chairman of the Association of Muslim Scholars, as the keynote speaker for the International Day to Combat Islamophobia at its headquarters in New York on Friday. In his speech, Dr. Al-Issa emphasized that Islamophobia is one of the most alarming manifestations of hate speech, warning that it not only harms Muslims but also fuels extremism and societal divisions. He stressed that this rising trend threatens inclusive citizenship, a fundamental principle upheld by modern constitutions and international laws. He cited credible statistics indicating an escalation of crimes against Muslims, including discrimination, exclusion, and denial of basic rights. Additionally, he pointed to the marginalization of some Muslim communities, restricting their ability to integrate into societies. Dr. Al-Issa asserted that the nearly two billion Muslims worldwide embody the true essence of Islam. He highlighted their positive engagement with diverse religious, ethnic, and cultural groups, emphasizing Islam's universal message of human understanding, as reflected in the Quranic verse: "O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another." (Quran 49:13) He firmly stated that Islamophobia is not merely a religious issue but a humanitarian crisis, endangering global peace and coexistence. He added: "When we speak from this international platform, we are not just defending Islam but also standing up for universal human values." Dr. Al-Issa also denounced divisive rhetoric, rejecting hate-driven political campaigns, media bias, and policies that foster fear and division. He declared: "No to making religious followers targets of hate and discrimination. No to racist electoral slogans. No to fear-mongering for political gain. No to media outlets that fuel intolerance. No to platforms that spread falsehoods. And no to linking terrorism to a faith followed by nearly two billion people." He also rejected extremists who distort religion for their own agenda while urging the world to recognize the truth about Islam and its teachings of peace. Dr. Al-Issa called on the international community to work towards a world based on tolerance and understanding, stressing the critical role of educational and cultural institutions in fostering awareness, particularly among youth. As part of his visit, Dr. Al-Issa held bilateral discussions with UN General Assembly President Dennis Francis, focusing on the rise of Islamophobia, its implications, and shared global concerns. His invitation to deliver the keynote address reflects the global recognition of MWL's role in combating Islamophobia, fostering international alliances, and promoting religious tolerance. It also underscores the organization's influence in addressing hate speech and strengthening interfaith dialogue.
