Al Azhar condemns attack on Burkina Faso church

CAIRO, Feb 18 (MENA) - Al Azhar has condemned a terrorist attack on a Protestant church in the village of Pansi in the Yagha region in Burkina Faso, which left scores of people dead and wounded.

A statement issued by Al Azhar on Tuesday expressed rejection of such crimes, describing attacks on places of worship as a despicable act, pointing out that religions urge peace and love and reject killing and terrorism.

The statement said the crimes committed by terrorist groups against places of worship, civilians and military personnel who protect the homelands are totally rejected by Islam, calling for taking legal and security measures to defeat such groups.

In the statement, Al Azhar offered condolences to the people and government of Burkina Faso calling for a speedy recovery of the wounded.