FORT DIX ARMY POST ARRESTS

May 9, 2007 - ISNA, once again, unequivocally condemns all acts of terrorism targeting life and limb in any part of the world. That Muslims would even consider engaging in such acts of violence in the name of Islam is particularly troublesome to ISNA. Muslim jurists have declared that targeting human beings ‘through suicide bombings or any other method of attack is haram—or forbidden—and those who commit these barbaric acts are criminals, not ‘martyrs’.

ISNA reiterates the teachings of the Koran to Muslims the world over, that they live in harmony with their fellow citizens, and that they “cooperate in promoting virtue and piety, and that they not cooperate in promoting evil and aggression” (5:2) It is therefore our religious responsibility that we as citizens of this country remain vigilant of all acts that might threaten the safety and security of our fellow citizens, and that we notify the relevant authorities of all such threats..

ISNA would also like to inform the community of the FBI’s reassurances that “today’s developments’ are not reflective of the Arab, Muslim, or South Asian-American communities and should not be taken as such by members of the general population.” Law enforcement officials have also asked us to remind the community of the following: its equal protection rights; its due process rights; the need to have an attorney present during an interview; the need to safeguard community buildings and religious institutions, and the need to maintain ongoing communications with local law enforcement agencies.

In conclusion, ISNA commends all law enforcement agencies that helped avert the “Fort Dix” disaster. The restraint exercised in distinguishing between the alleged perpetrators and the communities to which they belong is particularly heartening. This in itself is testimony to the value of the collaborative programs that ISNA and other religious and community organizations frequently conduct with law enforcement agencies.