Mufti of Lebanon: Fatwa coordinates with state to protect nation

CAIRO – 17 October 2017: “Fatwas should coordinate with the state to protect human rights, putting an end to any threat to the state’s safety and security,” said the Grand Mufti of Lebanon Sheikh Abdel Latif Derian.

Derian delivered a speech during the opening session of the International Conference for Ifta titled "The Role of Fatwa in Maintaining social Stability.” The conference is being held from October 17 to 19 in Cairo, as an initiative of the Egyptian Islamic institution Dar Al-Ifta Al-Missriyyah, under the auspices of President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi.

“We cannot address the injustice and hostile campaigns faced by Islam, and the distortion of our religion caused by misguided fatwas. However, with God on our side we can face all challenges,” stated Derian.

During his speech, he stated that a large number of Egyptian Muslims represent the modesty of Islam, thanking Al-Azhar for exerting huge efforts to achieve peace.

He added that the Arab world is at a critical stage facing the violations committed against the Rohingya Muslims, and against the Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem.

The conference promotes the culture of understanding, coexistence and dialogue, the mufti said in statements to MENA.

Dar Al-Ifta, affiliated to the General Secretariat for Fatwa Authorities Worldwide, is hosting the third international conference with the participation of delegations representing 60 countries.

The move came as part of the continuous coordination between the Foreign Ministry and Dar Al-Ifta; seeking to highlight Egypt’s efforts in denouncing extremist discourses.