Mosque Attack Sparks Fear and Calls for Unity in the UK

As-salamu alaykum, brothers and sisters. There is growing fear among Muslims in Peacehaven, East Sussex, after a mosque was attacked with firebombs, narrowly missing two worshippers. This terrifying incident came shortly after a disturbing rise in extremist views and hate crimes in the UK, including the tragic attack on a synagogue in Manchester. The local mosque chairman, Brother Mohammed Khan, was nearly caught in harm's way when petrol was poured near the mosque and his car after evening prayers. The attackers, seen wearing balaclavas, tried to break into the mosque, but Brother Khan had locked the doors and managed to escape safely with a friend. The mosque's founder, Brother Khuram Kiani, expressed how everyone is now scared to attend prayers, with a much smaller turnout at night prayers following the incident. He believes this attack may be connected to the current political climate, which has seen a rise in far-right and anti-immigrant sentiments. The Muslim Council of Elders strongly condemns these acts of terrorism, reminding us that attacking places of worship threatens peace and harmony in our communities. They call upon the global community to stand together against hate, racism, and Islamophobia, and to promote tolerance and peace. Local police urge anyone with information to come forward to help bring the perpetrators to justice. The wider community has shown kindness, leaving supportive messages and standing in solidarity with the Muslim community during this difficult time. May Allah protect our places of worship and grant safety to all believers. Let us continue to pray for unity, peace, and justice, and work together to overcome hate with compassion and understanding.