| Gaza Crisis: The Community Response |
 |
With
the horrific scenes being witnessed in Gaza , it is essential for us as
Muslims to do all we can to help the Palestinian people and the people
of the Middle East. Since the crisis began, The Council of European
Jamaat has through the offices of The World Federation has been
identifying methods in which our community can make an impact.
COEJ We
are working with The World Federation and the Muslim Council of Britain
in communicating with the UK Government to raise our concerns.
From the many activities which we can do, let us:
- Join peaceful protests which are taking place in your local regions, and let your voice be heard
- Write,
call and meet your Member of Parliament, or local government
representative. UK residents can find out who their MP is by visiting www.theyworkforyou.com
- Educate
through writing articles, and taking part in television, radio and
online discussion forums. You can find some letter-writing tips here:
(www.arabmediawatch.com/amw/Resources/LetterWritingTips/tabid/134/Default.aspx).
- Call government departments and voice your opinions
- Pray
for them. This is essential and we have the opportunity to do this
during the Holy Month of Muharram. In particular at times of crisis our
Aimmah have suggested the recitation of Dua-e-Jawshane Sagheer, which
helps take away such problems.
The President of The Council of European Jamaats, Al Haj Munawer Rattansey state: ?Let
us remembers the innocent victims of this massacre and their families.
We need to ensure that we voice our concern in peaceful means and let
our Governments know of our concerns on the plight of the people of
Palestine. We pray to Allah (SWT) through the intercession of our holy
infallibles to bring peace in the region.?
The President of The World Federation, Dr Ahmed Hassam stated: ?Let
us pray for the people of the Middle East in their hour of desperate
need. We need to take this opportune time to voice our opinions
peacefully and in a manner which is befitting for those that follow the
Madhab of the Ahlul Bayt. We pray for a quick restoration of peace to
the region, an end to the conflict and for prosperity for all,
inshAllah.?
As we are all aware, limited aid is
currently reaching the Palestinian people due to blockages. The World
Federation is currently working with other NGOs to identify the
situation on the ground, and will keep you informed on this as and when
reports are available.
At present, even
quasi-governmental organizations are unable to operate and do not have
access to the area. We are identifying suitable partners who will be
able to effectively deliver in humanitarian work, and will keep the
community informed accordingly.? | 
