With profound sadness, we have received the news of the passing of Pope Francis.
Pope Francis was a revered spiritual leader, held in high esteem by countless nations around the world. He played an exemplary role in promoting peace, tolerance, and solidarity with the oppressed and suffering across the globe.
His historic meeting with the esteemed Shiite religious leader, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, in the holy city of Najaf al-Ashraf marked a significant milestone. During this encounter, both leaders emphasized the fundamental role of faith in Almighty God and divine teachings, as well as the commitment to high moral values, in addressing the immense challenges facing humanity today. They also highlighted the urgent need to unite efforts in fostering a culture of peaceful coexistence, rejecting violence and hatred, and promoting compassion and harmony among people, grounded in mutual respect and recognition of the rights of followers of diverse faiths and beliefs.
The Islamic-Shiite Religious Community in Austria
extends its heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the followers of the Catholic Church worldwide, particularly to our Christian fellow citizens in Austria, during this time of great loss. We pray for their strength and comfort, and we ask Almighty God, in His boundless mercy, to bestow peace, blessings, and grace upon them and all of humanity.
Statement of the ISGÖ on the Terrorist Attack on Saturday in Villach
Vienna, February 18, 2025
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad and his pure family.
With sorrow and horror, we strongly condemn the terrible and inhumane terrorist attack in Villach and extend our deepest sympathy to the victims, their families, all Austrian citizens, and the Austrian government.
As victims of such barbaric and terrorist acts ourselves, we Shiites stand in solidarity with Austrian society and the government. In defense of peace and human rights, as well as the protection of society against extremist influences, we stand by our fellow citizens in the fight against terrorism. We are convinced that now, more than ever, we must stand together in these times.
In this spirit, we declare our readiness to counter radicalism and extremism ideologically at the intellectual front.
Islamic-Shiite Religious Community in Austria