The Islamic Leadership Council of NY Condemns DiNapoli’s and Other State Politicians' Trip to Israel

Assalamualikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh,
Today is 23 February, 2024 / 13 Sha'baan, 1445

(New York, NY 2/23/2024) The Islamic Leadership Council (Majlis Ash-Shura) of New York expresses its deep disappointment and condemnation of the recent trip undertaken by NY State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli and other NY elected officials to Israel, sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of New York.

This visit, which transpired amidst severe humanitarian crises which has so far resulted in the loss of over 30,000 lives, predominantly children and women, and the destruction of essential infrastructure including hospitals and countless Muslim and Chrisitan places of worship, has inadvertently served to endorse these grave actions rather than promote peace and humanity.

It is profoundly troubling that our elected representatives chose to demonstrate solidarity with a stance that has been globally criticized for severe human rights violations, rather than advocating for a ceasefire and peace.

The uncritical support shown by these politicians towards policies suppressing the rights of the Palestinian people starkly contradicts the values of democracy and human rights they profess to champion.

Although the trip has concluded, we urge Comptroller DiNapoli and other participants to reflect on their actions and to engage in future discussions with a commitment to impartiality, justice, and an inclusive understanding of the complex dynamics in the region.

We also implore New York officials to align their actions and international engagements with the principles of justice and human rights, supporting the oppressed and advocating for a future where the dignity and rights of all, including Palestinians, are acknowledged and protected.

Sincerely,

Abdelhafid Djemil, PhD
President
Majlis Ash-Shura of NY
Islamic Leadership Council of NY