Source: blacktownsun.com.au

Mirza Sharif: History tells us that swords may win territories but not the hearts of people. Photo: Gary Warrick

What was your reaction to the raids last week?

Australia has the right to uphold its judicial process and as per the law if the raids were necessary to keep its citizens safe, then the raids are fully justified. According to the number of Australians joining Islamic State (IS), this raid seems to be a necessary step against the acts of violence and humanity at large.

It is only logical for the authorities to act now with a determined effort. In fact, more raids are welcome, if required.

Have you heard any response from the community about it?

Our peaceful Ahmadiyya community, who beholds their motto ‘Love for All Hatred for None’, is very concerned because the flames of what has been seen as news clips are now reaching our shores. I understand that the greater community including the majority of peace-loving Muslims should be concerned as evident from the numerous press releases and media statements to this effect.

We have received messages from some leading politicians and authorities [saying] that they understand what Islam really stands for, are with us and that they intend to condemn extremism with us.

I expect more response from the greater community as front pages are filled with the ‘‘terror news’’.

After the incident concerning Numan Haider in Victoria, one of the papers asked the front page question ‘How many more like him?’ Hence, I do expect more responses from the greater community.

How can young Muslims in the area be stopped from potentially taking up the call of IS, and its latest message to kill non-believers?

Each and every young Ahmadi Muslims, whether in Australia or any corner of the globe, understands very well the Islamic prophecy by our founder Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad that the present age requires ‘Jihad by Pen’; that is, through literature and other media. Concerning terrorism, the fourth Caliph of the Community writes: ‘‘As far as Islam is concerned, it categorically rejects and condemns every form of terrorism. It does not provide any cover or justification for any act of violence, be it committed by an individual, a group or a government.’’

History tells us that swords may win territories but not the hearts of people.

Australian Ahmadi youths are engaged in active programs such as Australia Day celebrations, Clean up Australia Day, Peace Symposiums and numerous charities in order to serve the broader community.

How is the mosque and the Ahmadiyya Community working with the community to plead for peace? 

The Ahmadiyya Muslims of Australia realise that with the rise of IS, global peace is threatened. However, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Ahmadis are under the caliphate of one and only leader globally and read more at blacktownsun.com.au