7 May 2024

The East London Mosque & London Muslim Centre wishes to convey the shock, pain and grief of our congregation at the launch of an Israeli military assault on Rafah, where for the past six months 1.5 million Palestinians have been seeking shelter. The loss of over 35,000 lives, predominantly innocent women and children has already left the Muslim and wider community devastated, and any further escalation only deepens their collective pain and anguish.

As Palestinians are confronted with the worst humanitarian crisis in their history, we share the dismay of our community that instead of prioritising efforts to halt the escalating violence, death, and destruction, the US and Israel are focusing on issuing threats against the International Criminal Court (ICC). We stand in solidarity with the ICC Prosecutor’s Office in demanding an end to this campaign of intimidation.  

In this dark hour, we are heartened and inspired to see students across the US and elsewhere leading protests in support of justice and human rights in Palestine. Their courage in standing up for the rule of law and an end to impunity, even as their own government engages in shameful intimidation, is a bright ray of hope.

As a faith-based community dedicated to peace, respect of human dignity, and honouring the sanctity of life, we firmly denounce any harm inflicted on civilian populations. We call upon those in positions of power to step back from the brink of maddening violence and further humanitarian devastation. We stand united, in solidarity with the besieged people of Gaza and countless others advocating for justice, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law.

You can donate below to support our Palestine Emergency Appeal (Zakah eligible).