Muslim Leaders Who Oppose Terrorism: The New Heroes
by Khaled Abu Toameh • July 10, 2025 at 5:00 am
"You [Israelis] represent the world of brotherhood, the world of humanity, their world of affection, the world of democracy, the world of freedom." — Hassen Chalghoumi, imam from France and head of the visiting delegation, at a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, July 7, 2025.
When Muslims say they support the Palestinian "resistance," they are actually voicing support for terrorism and Hamas's October 7 atrocities against Israelis and others.
Undoubtedly, there are some Muslims who are in favor of these kinds of visits and interfaith dialogue, but they either prefer to remain neutral or are afraid to voice their opinions in public. Muslims should applaud, not condemn, Muslim leaders who reach out to Israel and Jews and speak out against Islamist terror groups, for their own future: they can choose, instead of a life of fear a life of freedom, prosperity and opportunity.
A group of brave Islamic religious leaders from France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Italy and Britain who are visiting Israel this week are being condemned and ridiculed by many Muslims. The leaders are being accused of "treason" and promoting "normalization" with Israel.
The Muslim leaders did not come to Israel to stand against Muslims or the Palestinians. Rather, they came with a message of peace, coexistence and tolerance. They came to Israel out of a belief that interfaith dialogue between Muslims and non-Muslims is imperative. Interfaith dialogue, which promotes peace and harmony, is important because it allows people to learn about different religions and cultures, and to appreciate the similarities and differences between them.
