Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH -- The attacks on churches in Indonesia were strongly condemned by a Saudi Foreign Ministry official source, the Saudi Council of Senior Ulema (scholars) and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Sunday.

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry source confirmed the solidarity of the Kingdom with friendly countries in fighting terrorism.

In a separate statement, the Council of Senior Ulema said that it considers the attacks on the churches to be a grave crime, an injustice and an aggression forbidden by the Islamic Shariah.

The Secretariat General of the Council stressed that Islam forbids terrorism and considers people who commit such acts as criminals. These acts are rejected and forbidden by the Islamic Shariah.

In his statement, OIC Secretary General Yousef Al-Othaimeen said the OIC reaffirms its principled position that violence and terrorism should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group.

Violent extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations including violence against civilians and suicide attacks are against the holy principles of Islam and affront to the religious diversity of Indonesian society.

The Secretary General further expressed solidarity of the OIC with the people of Indonesia, offered his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wished quick recovery to the wounded.