Leave Jerusalem Alone

Let this holy city remain open for people of different faiths.

There has been a talk about turning Jerusalem to be the capital of Israel. To be honest with you, this is not just their internal issue. The fact that this is their country [means that] they can do anything they want to do. But in certain situations, some places are sacred for more than one religion.

In order to avoid any fatal confrontation or mischief in the regional communities, you need to calm down. Don’t take steps which can ignite hatred and mischief in the neighbouring countries.

As Sufis, we respect all religions and we encourage all religions to promote peace and love and to avoid any altercation or confronting politics. Moving the capital from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem will only add fuel to already existing problems within Israel between the Jews and Arab Muslims.

I think the best politics is to bring people together, mend their pain and unite their hearts, rather than introducing a form of politics which segregates communities and which ignites hatred and anger. This is going to have a very adverse effect on people who represent these countries.

In the best interest of humanity and international peace and love, the best thing is that we do not incline towards divisions; rather, we should work towards inclusiveness.

[We should try] to include everybody in this global community and respect everyone’s religious beliefs and religious freedom. [This is especially important for] a place like Jerusalem, which is sacred to all three Abrahamic faiths: Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

In order to unite them all, we need to leave that place as a sacred holy place open to visits from all these Abrahamic faiths.

That is all that I wanted to share with you today.

Younus AlGohar is the CEO of Messiah Foundation International. Read more of his work on his website. He also answers questions from viewers live on AlRa TV every day starting at 10:00 PM UK Time.