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Memri
15-04-2025
- Politics
- Memri
Afghan Taliban Website Alleges Israeli-American Conspiracy To Create Greater Israel: 'Jews Believe That They Must Destroy Al-Aqsa Mosque, Build The Temple Of Solomon In Its Place, And Establish... Greater Israel From The Nile To The Euphrates'
The following report is now a complimentary offering from MEMRI's Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM). For JTTM subscription information, click here . On March 19, 2025, the Voice of Hindukush – a media outlet linked to the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA, i.e., the Afghan Taliban) – published an article advancing a conspiracy theory that the Islamic State (ISIS) was established by Israeli and American intelligence agencies with the goal of destroying Islamic historical sites and paving the way for a Greater Israel. [1] "Zionists are engaged in a comprehensive struggle to create Greater Israel in the Middle East and the Levant, which includes erasing the historical and cultural identity of the region. Recently, media affiliated with the Zionist regime published a map showing two Jewish states from 3,000 years ago, clearly indicating the Jewish historical claim to the region," it said. The article, titled "The Joint Project of ISIS and Israel to Eliminate the Historical Identity of the Middle East," was published both in Pashtu and English. The article's writer, whose name is given as Usmani, argues that ISIS aims to eliminate the factors of resistance against the United States and the Zionist regime throughout the Islamic world. Following are excerpts from the English version of the article: "There Is No Doubt That ISIS Is An American And Israeli Intelligence Project, Whose Main Goal Is To Pave The Way For The Creation Of Greater Israel In The Middle East" "The Joint Project Of ISIS And Israel To Eliminate The Historical Identity Of The Middle East "Writer: Usmani "There is no doubt that ISIS is an American and Israeli intelligence project, whose main goal is to pave the way for the creation of Greater Israel in the Middle East and to eliminate the factors of resistance against the United States and the Zionist regime throughout the Islamic world. "In the Islamic Ummah, religious conflicts, the eradication of jihadist thought and fighters, the discrediting of the Islamic system and caliphate, presenting a negative image of Islam to non-Muslims, the excommunication of Muslims, and the destruction of Islam's historical and cultural identity are the main objectives that the United States has achieved through the ISIS group. "In this article, we will read about the similarities and unity of purpose between ISIS and the Zionist regime in the context of erasing the historical identity of the Middle East. "At the end of the article, you can judge for yourself how skillfully the United States creates proxy groups in the Islamic world under various names and then implements its plans and schemes through them." "In Addition To Other Atrocities And Crimes Against The People In The Areas They Occupied In Iraq And Syria, ISIS Also Destroyed Historical Buildings And Artifacts Under The Pretext Of Fighting Idolatry" "ISIS's Efforts To Erase The Historical Significance Of The Middle East "In addition to other atrocities and crimes against the people in the areas they occupied in Iraq and Syria, ISIS also destroyed historical buildings and artifacts under the pretext of fighting idolatry and innovation. The historical cities of Mosul and Tikrit in Iraq were particularly affected by their destruction. "The Mosque of Prophet Jonah, the Mosque of Prophet Seth, the Nuri Mosque from the time of Nur Al-Din Zangi, the Sultan Al-Wis Mosque, the Gate and Wall of the Assyrians, the historical castle of Tal Afar, and the historical city of Nimrud related to Mosul are places that ISIS destroyed during its fake caliphate. "Like their other acts of destruction and terror, ISIS fabricated justifications for this act to hide their true face from the people. "Here are some important points to note: "ISIS has targeted historical buildings and artifacts related to Islam and Islamic eras in the areas under its control, while in Iraq and Syria, during the time of the Companions and the Islamic caliphates, they did not do this, nor did the scholars of the Salaf [the first three generations of Muslims, or the early Muslims generally] of the Ummah issue any fatwa [Islamic religious decree] regarding the destruction of these artifacts." "It Is Clear That ISIS Considers Itself More Pious And Better Servants Of Allah Than Anyone Else" "Visiting Historical Sites For The Sake Of Reflection Is An Important Task "Allah almighty says in the Holy Quran:... (O Prophet! {Peace be upon him}) Say to them, 'Travel through the land and observe how was the end of those before (you). Most of them were idolaters.' "If we provide an example of Pharaoh's body, Allah says: ... So today, We will save you in body, that you may be a sign for those who come after you. And indeed, many among mankind are heedless of our signs. "Pharaoh's body was raised from the water by Allah for the people to take heed, and it remains in Egypt to this day. Egypt was conquered under the leadership of Amr ibn Al-As, may Allah be pleased with him, during the caliphate of [Islamic caliph] Omar, may Allah be pleased with him. Since then, no one has detonated bombs on Pharaoh's body or targeted those who view it. "It is clear that ISIS considers itself more pious and the best servants of Allah than anyone else. According to their ideology, ISIS justifies the destruction of historical sites from the pre-Islamic era or the presence of tombs within the Mosque of Yunus [of Jonah, in Mosul, Iraq] as a means to eliminate remnants of the Jahiliyya [ignorance, i.e., the pre-Islamic era] period, as well as centers of polytheism and innovation." "It Is Strange That Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi Announced His Caliphate From The Pulpit Of This Very Mosque In 2014 [Now Destroyed By ISIS] To Attract The Attention Of Muslims, As The Islamic Community Holds Nur Al-Din Zangi In Great Respect [For Aiding Salahuddin Ayubi]" "Now the question is, why did you destroy the mosque built by Nur Al-Din Zangi (the Nuri Mosque)? The Zangi family is well-remembered by Muslims and Crusaders alike – the Zangis who stood against the Crusader invasions of the entire Islamic world and whose rule was the only address for the liberation of Jerusalem. Salahudin Ayyubi was a soldier trained by Nur Al-Din Zangi and his deputy in Egypt. "It is clear that ISIS destroyed the monument and the mosque of Nur Al-Din Zangi to please the Crusaders. If they had the means, they would have certainly bombed the tombs of Nur Al-Din Zangi and Salahudin Ayyubi, may Allah have mercy on them. "It is strange that Abu Bakar Al-Baghdadi announced his caliphate from the pulpit of this very mosque in 2014 to attract the attention of Muslims, as the Islamic community holds Nur Al-Din Zangi in great respect. However, in 2017, when the caliphate claimants were convinced of their defeat, they revealed their true face and their animosity toward the mosques of the Islamic community became apparent and began with the destruction of another mosque. Even now, the primary targets of their attacks are mosques and schools. "Now, let us see how Israel, after ISIS, tried to erase the historical identity of the region in the Middle East, especially in its neighborhood, and set the initial conditions for implementing its sinister plan (creating Greater Israel). "The Jews believe that they must destroy Al-Aqsa Mosque, build the Temple of Solomon in its place, and establish a Jewish state (Greater Israel) from the Nile to the Euphrates, which will rule the entire world from this region. This goal is also depicted on their flag, with two blue lines on the edges representing the Nile and Euphrates rivers and the Star of David in the center, symbolizing the Jewish state and dominion." "According To Al-Jazeera Reports, The Zionist Regime Completely Destroyed 850 Mosques And Partially Destroyed 151 Mosques In Gaza During The Course Of 2024" Targeting Historical Sites And Mosques In Gaza And Lebanon By Israel "Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories hold a significant position due to their geographical connection between the great continents of Africa and Asia, and their location on the Mediterranean coast, linking maritime routes between Europe and Asia. Throughout history, they have witnessed many civilizations. "On the other hand, Lebanon, due to its strategic location, is no less significant than occupied Palestine. Some cities in this country, such as Beirut, Baalbek, Tyre, and others, have histories ranging from 3,000 to 4,000 years. Accordingly, various historical artifacts from different historical periods and empires are present in these regions. The historical city of Baalbek in Lebanon has more historical artifacts than others, most of which are attributed to the Phoenicians, Byzantines, Seljuks, Ayyubids, Crusaders, Mongols, Mamluks, and Ottomans. "According to Al-Jazeera reports, the Zionist regime has completely destroyed 850 mosques and partially destroyed 151 mosques in Gaza during the course of 2024. Additionally, it has demolished 19 historical tombs and three historical churches in the region. During this period, 20 mosques in the West Bank have also been attacked and partially destroyed." "Based on the media's documented reports, the Zionist regime has targeted 28 historical sites in four cities of Lebanon (Beirut, Baalbek, Tyre, and Bekaa) through bombardments, causing significant damage in some areas. The city of Baalbek, which is far from the borders of occupied Palestine and has no significant Hezbollah center or weapons depot, was asked by the Zionist regime during the war to evacuate and relocate to other places. "In front of the historical Baalbek citadel, there was a historical building from the Ottoman era, which the Zionist regime destroyed on February 7, 2024, through bombardment. Additionally, it has partially destroyed historical churches related to the Maronite, Orthodox, and Catholic religions in the city, which have been there for thousands of years." "This Religious Group [Protestants] Believes, As A Result Of A Jewish Conspiracy, That When A Jewish State Is Established In Palestine, Christ Will Return To Earth According To Their Belief – Therefore, Britain Established The Jewish State" "A Noteworthy Point "In Christianity, there are three major sects: Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant. Most followers of the Protestant faith are based in Britain and America. This religious group believes, as a result of a Jewish conspiracy, that when a Jewish state is established in Palestine, Christ will return to Earth. Therefore, Britain established the Jewish state and now jointly maintains and nurtures it with America. "A Brief Commentary On The Above Text "Zionists are engaged in a comprehensive struggle to create Greater Israel in the Middle East and the Levant, which includes erasing the historical and cultural identity of the region. Recently, media affiliated with the Zionist regime published a map showing two Jewish states from 3,000 years ago, clearly indicating the Jewish historical claim to the region. "The occupying regime and its allies destroy historical artifacts in Palestine because Palestine, or ancient Canaan, is fundamentally the historical homeland of the Palestinians. Various civilizations have passed through here throughout history, and the existence of these civilizations' artifacts in itself disproves Israel's claim to the region, particularly to Palestine. Similarly, the historical identity of Lebanon, Syria, and other countries in the region is targeted according to the Zionists' maps. "Accordingly, the Zionist regime, with the help of Protestants, seeks to challenge the historical identity of Muslims and some other minorities, who are the original inhabitants of the region, and for this nefarious purpose, it even destroys historical artifacts related to the Orthodox and Catholic religions, which date back to periods before the blessed religion of Islam. At that time, the Eastern Roman Empire, which had Christianity as its official religion, ruled over the Levant (Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan)." "ISIS Has Used The Theory Of Takfir To Justify The Killing Of Muslims, And Similarly, It Has Exploited The Names Of Polytheism And Innovation To Erase The Historical Identity And Culture Of Muslims, Which Can Only Be Attributed To A Jewish Conspiracy" "Now we come to another aspect of the topic, which is the complete destruction of the region's historical identity by ISIS, just like the Zionist regime, with the only difference being that the Zionist regime does this under the pretext of eliminating its opponents, while ISIS does it under the guise of eradicating signs and effects of polytheism and innovation. "Since its emergence and the declaration of its fake caliphate, ISIS has committed numerous wars, killings, and atrocities, primarily targeting mujahideen, scholars, and ordinary Muslims. Therefore, it is not surprising that this group aims to erase the historical identity of Muslims and colludes with the Zionist regime in this regard. "The Zionist regime reacts swiftly to every issue in the Middle East to the extent that it bombed all military centers and weapon depots in Syria after the rise of Tahrir Al-Sham, but it did not react even in the media when the ISIS caliphate emerged in Syria and Iraq. "In short, ISIS has used the theory of Takfir [the practice of declaring a particular Muslim to be an unbeliever] to justify the killing of Muslims, and similarly, it has exploited the names of polytheism and innovation to erase the historical identity and culture of Muslims, which can only be attributed to a Jewish conspiracy. "We do not say that all Daesh [ISIS] members are in contact with Israel and the United States, but the cause and source of the fitna [strife] [strife] is a Jewish conspiracy. Within the framework of the Daesh project and in line with the Khawarij [2] methodology, it is being advanced in coordination with certain intelligence agencies of the United States and the region through connections with specific and key individuals of the fake caliphate. "Daesh uses in its attacks those individuals who are unaware of religious knowledge, emotional, and influenced by the deceptive propaganda of the Khawarij through the internet. Most of them are young people from Islamic countries where there is a ban on religion and religiosity, and secular governments are in power." [1] (Afghanistan), March 19, 2025. The original English of the article has been lightly edited for clarity and standardization. [2] The Kharijites (literally, "those who come out"), were an early Islamic sect that advocated excommunicating Muslims for even minor sins and was proclaimed heretical by the mainstream Sunna
Middle East Eye
10-04-2025
- Politics
- Middle East Eye
Mufti Taqi Usmani and top Pakistani scholars say war on Israel 'obligatory'
Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani, one of Pakistan's most prominent Islamic scholars and a former judge of the Federal Shariat Court, has declared military "jihad" against Israel is an obligatory duty for all Muslim governments. Speaking at the National Palestine Conference in Islamabad on Thursday, Usmani said Muslim countries had "failed to provide sufficient support to those fighting to protect" Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem. "What is the use of the armies of Muslim countries if they do not engage in jihad?" he asked. The conference gathered prominent Islamic scholars from across the country, and its official declaration on Thursday echoed Usmani's remarks - concluding that "jihad" against Israel is obligatory for all Muslim countries. In his speech, Usmani also said that Muslims who intended to go on voluntary pilgrimages, such as Umrah, should spend their money on supporting the Palestinian resistance instead. New MEE newsletter: Jerusalem Dispatch Sign up to get the latest insights and analysis on Israel-Palestine, alongside Turkey Unpacked and other MEE newsletters "We have assembled within this very same convention hall one year ago in an act of solidarity for Palestine. Yet, ever since then, we have merely done conferences and not true action." Usmani further referenced Pakistan's first leader, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, saying: "The founder of Pakistan referred to Israel as an illegitimate state, and our stance will not be altered irrespective of how strong Israel may become." Muslim scholars issue 'fatwa' calling for 'jihad' against Israel as strikes pummel Gaza Read More » Pakistan, which was established in 1947 - a year before the founding of Israel - has opposed the creation of the Israeli state and has never recognised its sovereignty. Many scholars at the conference criticised the Pakistani government for not declaring war on Israel. This comes just days after Ali al-Qaradaghi, the secretary general of the International Union Of Muslim Scholars (IUMS), an organisation previously led by Yusuf al-Qaradawi, called on all Muslim countries 'to intervene immediately militarily, economically and politically to stop this genocide and comprehensive destruction, in accordance with their mandate'. His statement, which was also backed by 14 other prominent Muslim scholars, called on all Muslim countries to 'review their peace treaties' with Israel and for Muslims in the United States to pressure President Donald Trump to 'fulfil his election promises to stop the aggression and establish peace'. Opposing the 'fatwa' But Egypt's Grand Mufti Nazir Ayyad this Monday criticised the "fatwa" as "irresponsible". A "fatwa" is a non-binding Islamic legal ruling from a respected religious scholar, usually based on the Quran or the Sunnah - the sayings and practices of the Prophet Muhammad. Ayyad, who is the highest authority for issuing religious opinions in Egypt, rejected the "fatwa" and said that "no individual group or entity has the right to issue fatwas on such delicate and critical matters in violation of Sharia principles and its higher objectives". "Such actions may endanger the security of societies and the stability of Muslim states," he added. Egypt's grand mufti rejects fatwa for jihad against Israel as 'irresponsible' Read More » "Supporting the Palestinian people in their legitimate rights is a religious, humanitarian and moral duty. However, this support must be provided in a way that truly serves the interests of the Palestinian people and not to advance specific agendas or reckless ventures that could lead to further destruction, displacement and disaster for the Palestinians themselves." Ayyad said that the declaration of "jihad" in Islam must be made by a "legitimate authority". "In our current era, this authority is embodied in the recognised state and political leadership, not in statements issued by entities or unions that lack legal authority and do not represent Muslims either religiously or in practice," he said.
Express Tribune
10-04-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Mufti Taqi Usmani calls for complete boycott of Israel, stresses peaceful protests
Listen to article Mufti Taqi Usmani, a prominent Islamic scholar and head of Wifaq-ul-Madaris, has called on the Muslim world to impose a complete boycott of Israel, condemning the global community. He stressed that protests against Israel must be peaceful, while warning that any harm to individuals or property is strictly prohibited under Sharia law. The call was made during the National Palestine Conference held in Islamabad on Thursday where numerous Islamic scholars from various schools of thought gathered to address the ongoing crisis in Gaza and Palestine, Express News reported. While condemning the failure of Muslim countries to act against Israel, Mufti Usmani questioned the purpose of Muslim armies and their weapons if they are not used to defend the oppressed Palestinians in Gaza. 'If Muslim countries' armies are not engaging in jihad over Gaza, what purpose do they serve?' he said. The reknowned clreric said that it is essential to keep Gaza alive and to completely boycott the products of Israel and its supporters while emphasizing the need to also boycott companies that aid Israel. However, he stressed that protests against Israel should not result in harm to anyone's life or property, as causing harm to others through stone-throwing or violence is prohibited in Sharia and the boycott of Israel and its supporters' products should be carried out peacefully. The call for non-violence came after a mob attacked a branch of an international fast-food chain in Mirpurkhas late Tuesday night, damaging the building and setting part of it on fire. Mufti Usmani reaffirmed Pakistan's stance, emphasising that the country has no relations with Israel and that it will not recognise the state of Israel. He reminded the audience that the founder of Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had declared Israel an illegitimate state before the creation of Pakistan, and this position remains unchanged. Mufti Usmani also criticised the United Nations for enabling Israeli violence and noted the failure of the global community to hold Israel accountable while calling for a clear and unified declaration of jihad against Israeli occupation, stressing that Muslim leaders cannot shy away from their duty. Speakers at the conference highlighted the dire situation in Gaza, with reports stating that over 60,000 Palestinians have been martyred, including women and children. The clerics blamed the US for encouraging Israeli aggression and criticized the inaction of international human rights organizations as they also pointed out the growing humanitarian crisis, with local populations being displaced and reports of Israeli attacks on medical professionals and journalists. 'Israel is a terrorist state,' said Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman. 'The leadership of the Muslim world is inactive and the silence is deafening.' He stressd that the time for mere condemnation was over and called for military intervention in Gaza. 'We must send our forces, for jihad is now a religious obligation,' he said. Former senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, spoke of the ongoing genocide of Palestinians, urging Islamic nations to stop merely condemning the actions of Israel and take action to help the people of Gaza. He praised the resistance of Hamas fighters in Gaza and called for a military response from the 57 Islamic nations, questioning their true commitment to the Palestinian cause. The conference concluded with a unanimous declaration calling for a range of actions, including the immediate cessation of diplomatic relations with countries that recognise Israel and the establishment of a no-contact policy until an unconditional ceasefire is achieved. The clerics urged the United Nations to hold an emergency session and called on Pakistan to lead the charge in this matter. The conference also declared tomorrow the 'Day of the Oppressed Palestinians,' urging Muslims worldwide to show solidarity with Palestinians, who have endured decades of occupation and violence. Resolution of the National Palestine Conference The conference released a detailed statement, describing Israel's actions as open genocide, and accusing the UN Security Council and the International Court of Justice of inaction. The declaration called for Jihad as an obligation on all Muslims, citing the Islamic principle of 'al-Aqrab fi al-Aqrab' (the nearest must be helped first) in the face of Palestine's suffering. The statement also denounced US President Donald Trump's remarks about relocating Palestinians, affirming that Palestine, including Jerusalem, is a legitimate and historical right of the Palestinian people. 'The Muslim world must come together to support Palestine,' the declaration concluded. 'Israel's occupation is illegal, and the region, including all of Palestine, belongs to the Palestinians.'
Arab News
18-03-2025
- Arab News
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia: Why expats love to celebrate in the ‘homeland of Islam'
RIYADH: Many Muslim expatriates in Saudi Arabia, despite being away from their families and home countries during Ramadan, cherish the time spent in the 'homeland of Islam' during the holy month. 'The expats spending the holy month in the homeland of Islam are fortunate, both in terms of spiritual satisfaction and piousness as well as personal experiences, and for those who are new to the Kingdom, there is a lot to look forward to for a whole new experience,' said Nafisa Usmani, an Indian homemaker who has lived in Riyadh for more than two decades. 'You can sense the Ramadan vibes here everywhere you go. The streets at night during Ramadan are packed and everything that is dull during the day comes to life in the night,' she added. Ramadan in Saudi Arabia has become a model of brotherhood that transcends borders and nationalities, with increased gatherings among families and friends in homes. (SPA/Supplied) 'I can say from my decades of experience here that there is no other place better than Saudi Arabia to spend time in Ramadan and celebrate its spirit including the opportunity to go to the mosque and do group Taraweeh prayers,' Usmani said. 'Ramadan is a time of great significance for Muslims and it is observed with great importance in Saudi Arabia. You also have the opportunity to go to the two holy cities — Makkah and Madinah — and perform Umrah and Ziyarah during the holy month while staying here,' she added. Echoing the sentiments, Lebanese expat Farah Fouad said that she is very excited to celebrate yet another Ramadan in Saudi Arabia due to the special significance of the holy month in the Kingdom. I can say from my decades of experience here that there is no other place better than Saudi Arabia to spend time in Ramadan and celebrate its spirit. Nafisa Usmani, Indian homemaker 'Being in the heartland of Islam you can sense the Ramadan spirit here everywhere you go,' she added. Iffat Aabroo, another Indian homemaker in Riyadh, said: 'It's very nice to spend Ramadan here. Markets are open until suhoor, there is the crowd bustling in the streets keeping the night alive and those that are shopping to prepare themselves for the Eid Al-Fitr festival. Ramadan in Saudi Arabia has become a model of brotherhood that transcends borders and nationalities, with increased gatherings among families and friends in homes. (SPA/Supplied) 'Hotels make elaborate Ramadan tent arrangements, both delicacies as well as decorations.' She added that Ramadan is not just a religious observance, but also a cultural phenomenon, reflected by acts of spirituality and social bonding. Sharing her experience, Ambreen Faiz, a Pakistani writer living in Yanbu, told Arab News: 'I have been living in Saudi Arabia for the past 27 years. 'When I first arrived in Riyadh in 1998, I was sort of mesmerized witnessing the festivities of the holy month of Ramadan in the Kingdom. Every Muslim anxiously waits for the advent of the holy month of Ramadan.' She added: 'Many women that I know of from Pakistan become as excited as I do when the holy month arrives. We do not want to go for vacation during Ramadan and in fact want to stay in the Kingdom to welcome Ramadan and enjoy the festivities that it brings along. 'We women friends chalk out our programs of iftar parties. And we prepare Pakistani delicacies of Ramadan — chole, pakore, samose, dahi barey, fruit chaat and whatnot. Such delicacies are liked and enjoyed by all ages,' she said. 'Ramadan is very much enjoyed by the kids especially when we go to Haramain to perform Umrah,' Faiz said, adding: 'I am thankful to Allah that he has blessed us with the opportunity to live in Saudi Arabia and enjoy the festivities of Ramadan. 'Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is way better than it is in the sub-continent or any other country,' said Mohammed Naeem, a Pakistani expatriate. 'I always prefer spending Ramadan here because everything is so smooth and there is so much dedication to the almighty Allah during Ramadan. People actually know the true value of the holy month and they act accordingly here.' Ramadan for many expatriates is often marked by a mix of traditions from home and the Kingdom. Ifthikar Ansari, a Sri Lankan working in the Eastern Province, told Arab News: 'We love staying here during Ramadan and enjoy a mix of Sri Lankan and Saudi delicacies. 'In Sri Lanka, where a significant percentage of the population observes fasting during the sacred month of Ramadan, their iftar meals are characterized by a special blend of flavors and traditions. 'A customary dish on their iftar table is a porridge made with rice and coconut, often complemented by the addition of beef or chicken, along with a spicy chili chutney. 'Bringing it to our iftar table here with dates, an essential component of an iftar meal, and some Saudi delicacies are a routine thing, and the iftar spread is further enriched with other delicacies such as cutlets, and patties,' he added. 'To quench the thirst, tropical fruit juices featuring wood apple, pineapple and king coconut are favored choices, ensuring a healthy and refreshing conclusion to the day of fasting,' Ansari said.
