Sydney: The Alliance of Australian Muslims (AAM) and the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) have strongly condemned the deadly terrorist attack and mass shooting at the Islamic Centre of San Diego in the United States, describing it as a horrific act of violence targeting a place of worship.
According to the statement, the attack at the largest mosque in San Diego County reportedly left five people dead, including members of the congregation and the suspects involved. Authorities are investigating the incident as a hate crime.
The organisations extended their deepest condolences to the families of the victims, the Muslim community in San Diego, and all those affected by the tragedy.
“Mosques and places of worship must remain sanctuaries of peace, safety, and reflection, not targets of hatred and terror,” the statement said.
AAM and ANIC also voiced concern over rising Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hostility, saying that the Australian Muslim community remains deeply fearful about potential attacks targeting Muslims, mosques, Islamic schools, and community institutions.
The statement noted that recent threats, hate incidents, online extremism, and growing hostility have intensified fears within Muslim communities.
Highlighting the role of public discourse, the organisations warned that portraying Muslims primarily through the lens of security threats or extremism fuels division, emboldens hate groups, and undermines social harmony.
The organisations called on political leaders, media organisations, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to take the growing threat of Islamophobia seriously and work collectively to ensure the safety and protection of all faith communities.
Reaffirming solidarity with Muslims in the United States and all communities affected by hatred and violence, AAM and ANIC stressed the need for unity against extremism, intolerance, and hate-driven attacks.
