The execution of 30 Ethiopian Christians in Libya and the suicide bombing in eastern Afghanistan, killing more than 30 civilians and injuring 125, shows ISIS, which claims to act in the name of Islam, is not following the principles of Islam, let alone basic human rights.

Islam castigates the killing of innocent people.

The Holy Quran states:

“Whosoever killed a person … it shall be as if he killed all mankind.” (5:33).

It further condemns suicide attacks when it clearly states:

“…and cast not yourselves into ruin with your own hands” (2:196)

and again:

“And kill not your own selves” (4:30).

Finally, Islam upholds freedom of conscience and religion.

The head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, states:

“God Almighty has left the choice of which belief to accept to be determined by the conscience of each person.”

My heartfelt condolences go out to the families of the victims.

Aasma Ahmad, Marietta