Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Stop the Assault on Palestinian People NOW! Enough!

A special message

December 31, 2008

MANA Calls for an End to the Israeli Attacks in Gaza
The Muslim Alliance in North America joins the rest of the international community in calling for an immediate end to the unjustified Israeli attacks, devastation and blockade of the Palestinian people in Gaza, which has made Gaza a giant prison.
We strongly condemn the killing of innocent and defenseless Palestinian men, women and children and the continued denial of basic food, water, medical supplies and other necessities to by Israel. The destruction of electrical power plants, boats used for fishing, schools and infrastructure, as well as the use of sophisticated American-made weapons in the attacks in Gaza is unconscionable. Undoubtedly, if this collective punishment continues it will mean the genocide of the Palestinians.

We urgently call upon the U.S. government to use its power and influence to bring about an immediate ceasefire and a just solution to this ongoing conflict. We also call upon the Egyptian government to fulfill its Islamic and humane duty by opening its borders to allow critically-needed supplies into Gaza and to give Gazans a route to flee the devastation and terror that is upon them.

We appeal to all right-minded people throughout the world to join in solidarity to support the Palestinians against the brutality that has been waged upon them. Let us all make make du'a for our Palestinian brothers and sisters. As Muslims, we are one in faith. Their pain and grief is our very own. Allah has said:
"The Believers, men and women, are protectors one of another: they enjoin what is just, and forbid what is evil: they observe regular prayers, practise regular charity, and obey Allah and His Messenger. On them will Allah pour His mercy: for Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise". (9:71)

Our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has taught us, that whoever relieves the distress of a believer, Allah will relieve their distress. May Allah relieve the suffering of the Palestinian people, grant them authentic peace and true justice, guide and protect the Ummah, relieve all oppressed people from undue aggression, and bring peace and victory to the believers. Amin.
Requested Actions

1. Donate generously to support the 1.5 million residents of Gaza suffering from Israeli air strikes to the following humanitarian organizations:

2. Call your members of Congress TODAY.
Since Congress is currently in recess, contact the district office of your members of Congress. Click here to locate your U.S. Representative, and click here to locate your Senators.
Suggested talking points:
  • President Bush and Secretary Rice should exert diplomatic pressure to immediately re-instate a ceasefire. Israel's military assault is disproportionate, inhumane, and immoral. The U.S. is the only country that has the capability to effectively halt this vicious cycle of violence.
  • All human life is sacred. Israel must stop its collective punishment of Palestinians, and allow critically needed medical supplies and food to be delivered to the residents of Gaza.
Palestinian attacked in Gaza