NU calls on world ulema to take stand against Isreal

Surabaya, NU Online
The Indonesia's biggest Muslim organization Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) has called on ulema all over the world to take firm measures in dealing with the Israeli military action in the Gaza Strip, Palestine.

At this point, the organization has sent its official letter to all ulema of the NU initiated-International Conference of Islamic Scholars (ICIS) around the world.<>

"We have sent letters to all ulema especially those who are the member of ICIS to call on Muslims and take a stand against Israel," general chairman of the Central Board of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) KH Hasyim Muzadi said here Thursday.

Through its letters in addition to call on ulema to soon help Palestine, NU has also urged the Palestinian main factions, Hamas and Fatah to unite. If all elements in the country could unite there would be such easiness to fight against Israel.

In the meantime, Hasyim said that NU had also called on Arab communities to give clear assistance. He hoped Arab countries not to voice only.

"If helped by its surrounding Arab countries, Palestine would be secure," Hasyim was quoted by okezone.com as saying.

NU through its ICIS has itw own ulema network all over the world. There have been some 154 ulema from more than 64 countries. They are ulema beyond borders ('abra al-hudud/sans frontieres).

ICIS is the forum for world's ulema and Islamic scholars initiated by NU. This world forum is aimed at building peace as well as helping address any conflict especially in Muslim countries. ICIS has so far held three meetings in Jakarta in 2004, 2006, and 2008. (dar)