On Palestine-Israel Two State Solution
Selected Excerpts of Correspondence
“The way the State of Israel was created by wiping out indigenous population of Palestine, is not justifiable even in accordance with the principles of the prevailing Western Civilization and its institutions - while the western civilization and its institutions owe largely their existence and promotion to our Jewish brethren. It is a contradiction. It is highly irrational.” – Kazi Azizul Huq
“Israel has never sought to wipe out any population in the Holy Land/mandatory Palestine, but has sought and seeks to live in peace with them and guaranteeing that in its own society, all are equal before the law and equality of franchise, regardless of religion or race. As far as a Palestinian state is concerned, the goal of establishing such (a two states solution) is the official policy of the State of Israel..” – Chief Rabbi David Rosen
For the Muslims & Palestine
Kazi Azizul Huq, Faik Hamza, Maulana Hamidullah ibn Hafezzi Huzur,
Maulana Sheikh Abdus Salam, CIRB-Hezbollah, Palestine Authority, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon, Islami Gono Andolon.
For the Jews & Israel
Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG, Dr. Richard L.Benkin, Salahuddin Shoaib Choudhury,
American Jewish Committee (AJC), International Jewish Committee for Inter-religious Consultations (IJCIC-Israel), Interfaith Strength (USA), The Weekly Blitz.
Methodology of this Ongoing Dialogue
“Agreeing to Disagree and Continue Constructive Dialogue for Peace & Justice”
Facilitator
Sanjeeb Chowdhury
Chairman, Human Rights Forum (HRF)
Vice Chairman, Bangladesh Inter-religious Council for Peace And Justice (BICPAJ)
Published by
Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon
[Bangladesh Movement for Governance by Vicegerent of God]
Head Office : N-70 Ashrafabad, Kamrangir Char, Dhaka-1211, Bangladesh
International Affairs Department : 24/A Joar Shahara (Olipara), Dhaka-1229
E-mail: khelafat@dhaka.net
Table of Contents Page
16 April 2007 From CIRB-Hezbollah to Chief Rabbi David Rosen 3
Letter to the President of Israel Re-sent through Chief Rabbi David Rosen 4
17 April 2007 from Chief Rabbi David Rosen to CIRB-Hezbollah 5
7 May 2007 from CIRB-Hezbollah to Saudi King with copy to others 8
11 May 2007 from CIRB-Hezbollah to Chief Rabbi David Rosen 10
23 May 2007 from Anti Defamation League (ADL) criticizing HAMAS’s hate campaign 12
27 May 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq condemning all hate campaign as sinful act 12
8 June 2007 from Bangladesh Kheafat Andolon (BKA) to Chief Rabbi David Rosen 13
8 June 2007 from Chief Rabbi David Rosen to BKA & CIRB-Hezbollah 15
19 July 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Chief Rabbi David Rosen 18
18 July 2007 from Palestine Embassy to Kazi Azizul Huq : NAM on Palestine 19
21 July 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy : Dr. Benkin’s Comments 20
19 July 2007 from Dr. Richard L. Benkin in response to Palestine Embassy’s campaign 21
22 July 2007 from Chief Rabbi David Rosen to Kazi Azizul Huq 22
30 July 2007 from Chief Rabbi David Rosen to CIRB-Hezbollah with cc to BKA 23
31 July 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy 24
1 August 2007 from Palestine Embassy to Kazi Azizul Huq 26
1 August 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy with Cc to others 27
2 August 2007 from Palestine Embassy to Kazi Azizul Huq 29
2 August 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy with Cc to others 29
3 August 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Chief Rabbi David Rosen 32
3 August 2007 from Chief Rabbi David Rosen to Kazi Azizul Huq with Cc to others 33
Appendix
Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon’s Letter dtd 12 Feb.2007 to GoB (English) 36
Interview of KA Huq of Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon with the Weekly Blitz 38
16 April 2007 from CIRB-Hezbollah to H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen
From: CIRB Hezbollah [mailto:cirb.hezbollah@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, April 16, 2007 3:05 PM
To: H.E.Rabbi David Rosen
Cc: khelafat@dhaka.net
Subject: Archive: Letter to Israel
To : American Jewish Committee (AJC)
Attn: H.E. Rabbi David Rosen,
International Director of Inter-religious Affairs, AJC.
Excellency,
Assalamu Alaikum.
I am forwarding to you copy of a letter which we wrote to the Head of the State of Israel on 2nd September 2001.
I am committed to do my best to bring together the doer of good deeds and faithful monotheistic believers, irrespective of communities, to fulfill Divine Will.
I seek your understanding and cooperation.
May Allah forgive us.
Best wishes and best regards.
Kazi Azizul Huq
Ibn Abdul Huq Ibn Izzatullah Ibn Abdul Hamid
Designations:
Founder Convener of RRCCMC&J and CIRB(Hezbollah)
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon.
Enclosure : Letter to H.E. President Moshe Katsav, Israel.
----------------------
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, THE BENEFICENT, THE MERCIFUL.
Original Date: 2nd September 2001 A.D. Re-sent on: 16th April 2007 A.D.
To : His Excellency Mr. Moshe Katsav, Honorable President of the State of Israel.
Cc:
H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG, President of the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC); International Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee (AJC).
Excellency President, dear brother in Abrahamic Faith,
I call you my brother, because we believe in the Prophethood of Hazrat Moses Alaihissalam which is testified by the Last Prophet of Allah i.e. Hazrat Muhammad Ibn Abdullah Sallallaho Alaihissalam.
We are the closest and the most compassionate kin of Bani Israel. We have learnt form the Last Revealed Scripture of Allah i.e. The Holy Quran, about the inhuman sufferings inflicted on Bani Israel by Pharaoh. We are definitely partisan of Prophet Hazrat Moses Alsihissalam and his pious & obedient followers amongst Bani Israel. We are completely against Pharaoh and the oppressors like Pharaoh whom we treat to be enemies of Allah and of His Prophets.
Allah Says us in the Holy Quran :
" The apostle believes in what has been revealed to him from his Lord, and (so do) the believers ; they all believe in Allah and His angels and His books and His apostles ; We make no difference between any of His apostles: and they say : We hear and obey, our Lord ! Thy forgiveness (do we crave) , and to Thee is the end of all journeys."- (The Holy Quran 2 : 285, Sura Baqarah, Verse No.285).
Allah says in the Holy Quran :
"O people ! be careful of (your duty to) your Lord, Who created you from a single being (Adam) and created his mate (Eve) of the same (kind) and spread from these two many men and women ; and be careful of (your duty to ) Allah, by whom you demand one of the another (your rights) , and (to) the ties of relationship ; surely Allah ever watches over you." (The Quran 4:1 Sura Nisa, Verse No.1)
Therefore, all pious Muslims believe in One Allah, His angels, His books, His apostles ; pious Muslims do not make difference between apostles of Allah ; pious Muslims are modest and they beg forgiveness of Allah ; pious Muslims believe that Allah created mankind from a single pair of parents, i.e. Hazrat Adam Aslaihissalam and his wife Hazrat Eve Alaihissalam - thus the mankind is the progeny of Adam and Eve and are related to each other by blood. Pious Muslims do not believe in the atheistic hypothesis of evolution regarding origin of man which propagates the basis of discrimination i.e. man was originated in different races.
Pious Muslims are inherently non-arrogant, modest and compassionate. It is for the sake of Allah only that they sometime become hard. In fact All apostles of Allah and believers including Hazrat Moses Alaihissalam and his pious followers are Muslims. Islam means surrendering to Allah. Muslim means who has surrendered to Allah. Muslims are neither any race nor any tribe nor any ethnic community. Last apostle of Allah i.e. Prophet Muhammad Ibn Abdullah Sallallaho Alaihissalam was brotherly and compassionate to the Jewish people. But unfortunately some of his neighboring Jews turned to be the enemies of Allah. He was required by Allah to be hard to the enemies of Allah.
Divine Revelation in Sura Maidah (V) of the Holy Quran :-
" Verse - 20. And when Musa said to his people : O my people ! remember the favor of Allah upon you when He raised prophets among you and made you kings and gave you what He had not given to any other among the nations. "
" Verse - 21. O my people ! enter the holy land which Allah has prescribed for you and turn not on your backs for then you will turn back losers."
" Verse - 24. They said : O Musa ! we shall never enter it so long as they are in it; go therefore you and your Lord, then fight you both, surely we will here sit down."
" Verse - 25. He (Musa) said : My Lord ! surely I have no control (upon any) but my own self and my brother ; therefore make a separation between us and the nation of transgressors. " (The Holy Quran, Sura Maidah, Sura No.5 )
Kindly verify above facts from your own sources and Rabbi. The way the State of Israel was created by wiping out indigenous population of Palestine, is not justifiable even in accordance with the principles of the prevailing Western Civilization and its institutions - while the western civilization and its institutions owes largely its existence and promotion to our Jewish brethren. It is a contradiction. It is highly irrational.
Nevertheless, realities on the ground have been accepted by the Palestinians as well as by the neighboring states. Then by what Commandment of the Ten Commandments you are denying the inalienable rights of your Muslim and Christian fellows to have a separate Palestinian homeland ?
Let there be light. Let there be peace. Let again the exalted place of Jerusalem be upheld.
Sincerely your brother in Abrahamic Faith,
Kazi Azizul Huque (Ibn Abdul Huq Ibn Izzatullah Ibn Abdul Hamid),
Convener
Revolutionary Reconciliatory Command Council for Muslims, Christians & Jews (RRCCMC&J)-a spiritual organ sponsored by Council of Islamic Revolutionaries of Bangladesh (CIRB-HEZBOLLAH)
-------------------
17 April 2007 from H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen to CIRB-Hezbollah
from David Rosen
reply-to rosend@ajc.org.il
to cirb.hezbollah@gmail.com
cc khelafat@dhaka.net
date Apr 17, 2007 7:32 PM
subject FW: Letter to Israel
mailed-by ajc.org.il
Alaikum El Salam,
Your Excellency may not be aware of the following:-
-Twenty per cent of the State of Israel are Arabs – ninety per cent of them being Muslims – who are full citizens of the State of Israel.
- Israel's Declaration of Independence 1. affirms equality of rights for non-Jews – a position energetically defended by the Israeli courts and 2. calls on the Arab states to live in peace with her .
- Israeli leaders called on the Arab population not to leave their homes in the build up and during the fighting of 1948.
-In 1967 Israel sent a letter via the US to King Hussein urging him not to join Egypt and Syria in trying to exterminate Israel. Hussein ignored this warning and lost control of East Jerusalem and the West Bank as a result. Israel did not force Arab residents to flee – this was their (misguided) choice (substantially fueled by anti-Jewish propaganda.).
- Israel's first president Chaim Weizman signed a concordat of cooperation with the Emir Feisal as leader of the Arab world in 1919. Most Arab nations ignored this and launched hostilities and then war against Israel which led to the tragedy of Palestinian displaced persons.
These points make it clear that Israel has never sought to wipe out any population in the Holy Land/mandatory Palestine, but has sought and seeks to live in peace with them and guaranteeing that in its own society, all are equal before the law and equality of franchise, regardless of religion or race.
As far as a Palestinian state is concerned, the goal of establishing such ( a two states solution) is the official policy of the State of Israel, for which it withdrew at the time from the territories in the West Bank under the Oslo accords. Unfortunately, Palestinian violence forced Israel to reoccupy much of these. If the Palestinians will recognize Israel and cease violent acts against its citizens, they will gain their legitimate aspiration for a state (which is actually in the interests of the State of Israel as well.)
Blessings from Al Kuds Al Sharifa in the prayer that all who hold Jerusalem dear will be able to enjoy her sanctity and beauty in safety and dignity.
Allah makom,
David Rosen
Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG
International Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee (AJC)
President, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC),
tel:+972-2-6255281 fax:+972-2-6256527
mailto:rosend@ajc.org http://www:rabbidavidrosen.net
-------------------------------
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.
Dhaka, 7 May 2007
To: 1. H.E. King Abdulllah Ibn Abdulaziz Al Saud, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
2. H.E. Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, Leader, Islamic Republic of Iran
Cc: 1. H.E. President Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinezad, Hon. President IR Iran
2. H.E. Prince Saud Al Faisal, Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of KSA
3. H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG, President of the International Jewish
Committee for Interreligious Consultations
Muhtaram,
Assalamu Alaikum.
H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG, International Director of Inter-religious Affairs, American Jewish Committee and President of the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations, sent us a reply presenting Israeli position in response to our call for agreeing the inalienable rights of the Palestinians to have a separate viable homeland and to uphold the exalted place of Jerusalem.
Earlier we had a series of correspondence and consultation with Dr. Richard L. Benkin (Special Advisor to Intelligence Summit on Bangladesh Affairs) of American Jewish Committee (AJC). We had 3 rounds of meeting with him when he visited Dhaka last January. He sought our support for removal of ban on travel to Israel and subsequently for Bangladesh-Israel diplomatic relation. We told him, if Israel retreats to 1948 borders and agrees to joint administration of Jerusalem by friendly Muslims-Christians-Jewish clerics, we agree to recognize the State of Israel. Unless we know the territory and boundary of Israel and unless the status and administration of Jerusalem is agreed, it is difficult for Islamic parties and activists to recognize Israel.
Moreover, the sort of God-less secular democracy practiced in Israel that defends the Gays & Homosexuals to parade on the streets of the Holy City of Jerusalem is not acceptable to us. Rather if Israel enacts the laws of the Torah as the law of the state, Israel will be more acceptable to us than many other secular Muslim states.
We agreed to write to our government for removal of travel ban on Israel (we have already written to our Government). For our support for recognition of Israel and diplomatic relation, we suggested him to pursue Saudi Government. After the Saudi Government recognizes the State of Israel and establishes diplomatic relation, it will be possible for Bangladesh Government to recognize the State of Israel and establish diplomatic relation.
Meanwhile, we requested them to recognize HAMAS and the Unity Government in Palestine achieved through Saudi mediation. But they seem to be more prejudiced than the Muslims and the Palestinians. However, things are in progress and we think it is time to understand that the Jews, Israel & USA are not the prime enemy of the Muslims. British Government has been the prime enemy of the Muslims and of the believers. The British Government is the prime mover of God-less culture and values. They are trying to De-Faith the Muslim societies. They are trying to undermine marriage, promote fornication, and introduce Live-together and Gay culture in our societies. They have been promoting the fight between the Jews and Muslims to rule the world. We think, it is time for the Muslims and the Jews and the oppressed peoples of the world to unite to foil all British conspiracies to keep their God-less evil political/cultural domination over the world.
We request your excellency to kindly study their reply and provide us with materials to continue this consultation. We are hopeful, it will deliver.
May Allah forgive us all.
Maassalam.
Kazi Azizul Huq (ibn Abdul Huq ibn Izzatullah ibn Abdul Hamid)
Ph:+880-2-9881436, Cell:+880-(0)-1819-407963
E-mails: kahuq@dhaka.net, khelafat@dhaka.net, cirb.hezbollah@gmail.com
Designations:
Founder Convener of CIRB-Hezbollah
International Affairs Secretary of Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon
----------------------------------------
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
Friday, 11th May 2007
To: His Excellency Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG
Cc: H.E. King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al-Saud, HRH King of Saudi Arabia
H.E. Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran
H.E. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, CA, Government of Bangladesh
H.E. Secretary-General, Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), Jeddah
Excellency,
Assalamu Alaikum.
We sent copy of your letter to the leaders and policy makers of the Governments of Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, IR Iran and OIC. We have been discussing your points among our Islamic Clergies, intellectuals and activists.
We draw your kind attention to following points:
1. The Government of the State of Israel is a privileged state authority, and therefore has greater responsibility than the Palestinians who are the underprivileged.
2. We do not support any policy to wipeout the State of Israel.
3. We insist that the State of Israel should
(a) abandon belligerency ,
(b) leave all occupied lands,
(c) retreat to her 1948 borders and
(d) implement mutually agreed joint administration of the Holy City of
Jerusalem by friendly clergies of Jews, Christians and Muslims who
will agree access of followers of all Abrahamic Religions to respective
Holy sites.
In exchange
(i) The Palestinians and their patrons have to abandon all belligerency against the State of Israel and make real commitment to coexist peacefully as brotherly states and good neighbors.
(ii) Citizenship Laws of the State of Palestine should be fair and accept Jewish population in their territory as legitimate citizens of the State of Palestine.
We hope that Your Excellency will kindly discuss above among you and find out ways to get out of the impasse in mutual interest.
We remain committed to do our best to reach a solution that can be practically implemented.
May Allah forgive us all and help us all to be brotherly to each other and get rid of prejudices and mutual suspicion & hatred.
With best wishes and best regards.
Maassalam.
Kazi Azizul Huq
Designations:
International Affairs Secretary of Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon
Founder Convener of CIRB-Hezbollah
---------------------------------
At 04:06 AM 5/23/2007, ADL wrote: Hamas Targets Children for Hate
A Hamas TV station recently used a Mickey Mouse look-alike on a children's show to promote the destruction of the State of Israel and the most virulent anti-Semitism, while the the terrorist regime's online children's magazine also teaches hatred of Jews and Israel. Hamas has taken another step to indoctrinate children into its culture of hate, and as we continue to monitor and report this outrage, it is clear that ADL’s fight against anti-Semitism in the Arab world is more critical than ever.
------------------
27 May 2007 from K.A. HUQ to Anti Defamation League
05/27/ 2007 7:55 AM
From: : "Kazi Azizul Huq"
To: Anti-Defamation League
Subject: Hate campaign is sinful act
To : Brothers & Sisters in the ADL
Re: Hate Campaign
Dear Brothers & Sisters, Assalamu Alaikum.
Hate campaign is sinful act - whether it is committed by the Jews or the Muslims or the Christians or anyone else. No one should resort to hate campaign. State institutions, private institutions, media and particularly the clergies and scholars of all communities required to motivate their respective communities and people to shun hatred & cruelty, promote compassion and justice.
We are all children of Adam & Eve (May God Bless them). The more one is privileged, the greater is his/her responsibility. The State of Israel and the Jews are the privileged party. The Palestinians are the underprivileged. The State of Israel and our Jewish brethren have higher responsibility than the Palestinians.
Neither the Jews nor the Palestinians are to be wiped out. Both have to do justice to each other and coexist as peaceful neighbors.
Probably British administration intentionally manipulated the fight and hatred between the Muslims and Jews. These two communities are so potential that if they unite, they can jointly be the leader of the world.
May Allah forgive our sins and make us virtuous.
With best wishes and best regards,
Kazi Azizul Huq (ibn Abdul Huq ibn Izzatullah ibn Abdulhamid)
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon;
Founder Convener, CIRB-Hezbollah; Team Leader, Human Rights Forum.
--------------------------
8 June 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Chief Rabbi David Rosen
From: "Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon"
To: "Chief Rabbi David Rosen"
Cc: cirb.hezbollah@gmail.com
Subject: Your mail of 17 April 2007
Date: 08/06/07 16:18
Dhaka, Friday June 08, 2007.
To:
H.E. Chief Rabbi Rosen David KCSG
International Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee (AJC)
President, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations(IJCIC)
Excellency,
Assalamu Alaikum.
Reference the points raised in your excellency’s e-mail of 17 April 2007, Palestinian Authority yesterday informed us a few points to be communicated to you as follows:-
QUOTE
Equality of Citizenship in Israel:
It is not true that all citizens irrespective of Jews or Arab Muslims enjoy equal status and opportunities in Israel. Even all Jews are not equal in Israel.
There are 3 classes of Jews in Israel:
(a) Western Jews (European/American) – the privileged Class
(b) Eastern Jews (Middle Eastern) – the under-privileged Class
(c) Black Jews (African) – like the slave Class
Western Jews (from Europe/USA/Canada) enjoy higher status and opportunities in Israel. Eastern Jews and African Jews suffer discrimination.
Arabs generally suffer more severe discrimination and frequent persecution, intimidation and suffocation. Even those Arabs who are in good book of the Jews and have been made Knesset members are not spared from frivolous allegations and charges based on communal suspicion.
Territory and Border of Israel :
On the entrance of Israeli Knesset (Parliament) and on one side of Israeli currency the territory of Israel is shown from the Nile to the Euphrates.
It indicates Israel’s belligerent provocative nature.
Right of Return:
The Jews from anywhere in the world are considered to have the Right of Return to Israel – though those Jews or their parents or their grandparents were not inhabitant of that land.
Palestinians who themselves or their parents or their grandparents were inhabitant of that land are denied of the Right of Return.
UNQUOTE
Kindly check and confirm us the facts and inform us of your opinion and suggestions about the possible solutions (may be more than one options).
We are pursuing our government to lift ban on travel to Israel. We also think that ban on communication, shipping, transports, business transactions etc., should also be removed. In our opinion these ban are rather harming the Muslims and the Palestinians. If all the Muslim state parties and communities remove these barriers and let their people sit face to face and transact with the Jews and Israel - it will create a better environment for solving our mutual problems and differences.
We like to continue this communication and dialogue. We are also considering to invite your excellency to any suitable event in Dhaka.
We shall be waiting for your kind reply and continuation of the Dialogue.
May Allah Bless us with His Forgiveness and His Generosity to overcome our current impasse and move forward as brotherly and friendly communities committed to the path of virtue indicated in the Divine Revelations, Prophetic Missions and human experience.
Massalam.
Kazi Azizul Huq (ibn Abdulhuq ibn Izzatullah ibn Abdulhamid)
Founder Convener of CIRB-Hezbollah
Intenational Affais Secretary of Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon
Team Leader of Human Rights Forum (HRF)
------------------------------------------------------
8 June 2007 From Chief Rabbi David Rosen to Kazi Azizul Huq
Delivered-To: khelafat@dhaka.net
Date: Fri, 08 Jun 2007 17:05:17 +0300
From: Sharon Rosen <>
Subject: FW: Your mail of June 8 2007
To: khelafat@dhaka.net, cirb.hezbollah@gmail.com
Cc: 'David Rosen' <>
W'aleikom elSalaam to your Excellency.
Forgive me from replying from home (on my wife's computer) as I am shortly about to leave on travels for the next ten days and did not want to delay replying to Your Honour.
Allow me to express my appreciation for the spirit in which you have initiated and continue this discussion – in keeping with the injunctions of the Prophet PBUH, to engage others – especially the Peoples of the Book – in respectful discourse; and in keeping with his revelation of the Divine injunction "to know one another".
I am also grateful for the opportunity you offer me to dispel distortions, falsehoods and myths, that have become widespread as a result of the poison of politics and propaganda which "blind the eyes of the wise and distorts the words of the just ".
I refer to your points in the order you have numbered them.
1. This allegation reveals great ignorance regarding Israeli politics and society. Not only is there complete equality of franchise for Arabs and Jews whether Sephardic (from the ME, Asia and Africa – essentially Muslim lands) or Ashkenazic ( essentially from European lands), but the current President of Israel, the Minister of Defense, the Attorney General, the Chief of Staff (and I could go on) are all Sephardic Jews and the Sephardic religious party, Shas, is currently being "courted" by the candidates for the next presidency, revealing the degree to which it exerts control in Israeli political life.
Moreover my own son-in-law's parents come from Morocco and I certainly do not consider him not our grandchildren to be second class citizens in any way.
I can only conclude that the strange and spurious reference to Black African Jews concerns Jews from Ethiopia (there are of course many black Jews from Yemen and Jews from southern Africa residing in Israel.) It is true that Ethiopian Jews face many difficulties due to the fact that before their return to the Jewish homeland they have lived in a very different and disadvantaged cultural context without the same educational opportunities. However not only is there no institutional discrimination against them, but the State actually allocates additional resources for social and educational services as a means of affirmative action.
The complete falsehood of this allegation about different classes of Jews, should lead you to conclude that the allegations concerning Israel's Arab citizens are similarly as false.
2. There is no emblem of Israel's currency at the Knesset. However there is a pattern on the ten agorot coin (approximately one penny sterling – hardly a significant coinage !) that could be seen as a map of the Middle East and may be seen as an allusion to the journeys of our Father Abraham. There is no basis to any claim that the motive behind this outline on the ten agorot coin is belligerent (and as I say, if there would have been any significant motive, it would have made sense to use a more prestigious coin or note! ) However let us for argument's sake allow that the reference intended by this pattern is to indicate that the Divine promise to Abraham Isaac and Jacob as written in the Torah was to inherit the land from the Nile to the Euphrates. Does this imply belligerence ? Judaism like Islam forbids any act of violence against innocents and prohibits theft and robbery of any person. No Divine promise can permit the transgression of God's Law and His moral prohibitions. There are certainly Jews who dream that one day God's promises will be fulfilled, but no decent Jew thinks for one minute that that allows him to wage war against others – especially believers in the One God – nor God forbid to steal others' property.
The parallel would be if a Muslim country had an outline of a map of the extent of the Caliphate when Muslim rule was at its zenith. Surely that would be a legitimate memorial of the past and even a hope for the future – as long as it is not achieved in a manner that shows any disrespect for the life and dignity of another.
3. This is the only point that contains a legitimate criticism. Allow me to explain how Jews see Israel's Law of Return.
Even though we were expelled from our land both by the Babylonians (in 586 BCE) and then by the Romans (70 CE) not only have there always been Jews living in the Holy land, but wherever we have been, we have maintained our fidelity to our relationship with it. It is the only "Qibla" for Jewish prayer. In our daily prayers three times a day and in grace after every meal, we prayed and still pray for our return to the land and its restoration. Our festivals are not only historical festivals but seasonal ones as well (therefore our lunar calendar is synchronized with the solar calendar) in keeping with the seasons in the Holy Land (Jews who live in Argentina for example celebrate the Spring festival in the autumn and pray for rain when it is not appropriate for Argentina, because our liturgy is conditioned by the land.) At the end of a Jewish wedding a glass is broken in remembrance of the destruction of Jerusalem and hope for the return. At the end of the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, the Day of Atonement, and at the end of the Passover meal we declare "next year in Jerusalem."
Accordingly we have always seen ourselves as citizens in potential and the establishment of the State of Israel has enabled us to exercise this "citizenship".
I lament that Palestinians from the Holy Land are not able to enjoy this right as well and the only reason for that is the ongoing conflict and the concomitant security concerns. I pray that these will be resolved, peace will prevail, a Palestinians state will be established; and Palestinians will be able to enjoy the same rights in their state as Jews enjoy in theirs – insh'Allah.
I concur with the sentiments of his Excellency and applaud your initiatives. I think that it would also be important for us to come together and bring religious leaders from the Muslim and Jewish worlds to discuss these matters and work on a common plan for justice security and peace for all in the Holy Land.
Ma Salame,
David Rosen
Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG
International Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee (AJC)
President, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC),
tel:+972-2-6255281 fax:+972-2-6256527
mailto:rosend@ajc.org http://www:rabbidavidrosen.net
-----------------------------------
19 July 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Chief Rabbi David Rosen
From: CIRB Hezbollah [mailto:cirb.hezbollah@gmail.com]
Sent: Thursday, July 19, 2007 4:18 PM
To: H.E. Chief Rabbi Rosen David KCSG; rosend@ajc.org
Cc: Sharon Rosen; khelafat@dhaka.net; kahuq@dhaka.net; info.hrf@gmail.com
Subject: File received from PA
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.
Execellency,
Assalamu Alaikum.
Yesterday Palestine Embassy of Dhaka, sent to us a file which we are forwarding herewith as attachment.
Meanwhile, we continue to insist that Israeli Government should become a government based on Divine Revelations and Prophetic Missions and be careful in maintaining the sanctity of the Holy City of Jerusalem. It is unbearable for us to see gay parade in Jerusalem.
Futher, the Government of Israel should be run by such people who agree to the Purity and Honors of Holy Mother Marium @Mary, Holy Prophet Isaa ibn Marium @Jesus and Holy Prophet Muhammad (Blessings of God be upon them). There is information that there are Jews who propagates the lies that Holy Prophet Isaa ibn Marium @Jesus (Blessings of God be upon him) was born an illegitimate baby out of incest (Nauzubillah - I seek God's protection from the lies and liars). Any animosity with Holy Mother Marium @Mary, Holy Prophet Isaa ibn Marium @Jesus and Holy Prophet Muhammad (Blessings of God be upon them) inevitably invites Divine Curse.
We are struggling to work together with our Jewish brethren for reconstruction of both Muslim and Jewish communities who are known to be the followers of Holy Prophet Moses and Holy Prophet Muhammad (Blessings of Allah be upon them). May Allah Forgive us and Bless us with Success.
With best wishes and best regards.
Maassalam.
Kazi Aziz
Kazi Azizul Huq (ibn Abdulhuq ibn Izzatullah ibn Abdulhamid)
Founder Convener, CIRB-Hezbollah
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon (BKA)
Team Leader, Human Rights Forum (HRF)
Cell: +880-(0)-1819-407963 Ph/Fx: +880-2-9881436
---------------------------------------------------
18 July 2007 from Palestine Embassy to Kazi Azizul Huq
Date: Wed, 18 Jul 2007 20:37:46 -0700
From: "Palestine Embassy"
To: kahuq@dhaka.net,
Subject: News
X-Attachment-Id: f_f4aoyvxj
Content-Disposition: attachment; filename="none alinemovement.doc"
none alinemovement.doc
21 July 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy
Sent: Saturday, July 21, 2007 1:12 PM
From: Kazi Azizul Huq [ mailto:kahuq@dhaka.net]
To: H.E. Ambassador of Palestine
Cc: info@pmo.gov.bd; istiftaa@wilayah.org; cabinet@oic-oci.org; BDEMB@mofa.gov.sa; fs@mofabd.org; David Rosen; drrbenkin@comcast.net
Subject: News : Statement by NAM on Occupied Palestine
July 21, 2007.
To: H.E. Ambassador, Palestine Embassy, Dhaka.
Cc:
H.E. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, CEO, Gov't of Bangladesh
H.E. Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, Rahbar, IR Iran.
H.E. Ambassador of KSA, Dhaka.
H.E. Foreign Secretary, GoB, Dhaka.
H.E. Secretary General, OIC, Jeddah.
H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG,
International Director of Interreligious Affairs, AJC.
President, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC).
Dr. Richard L. Benkin, Interfaith Strength (AJC), USA.
Re: Statement by the Coordinating Bureau of NAM on Situation in the Occupied Palestine and East Jerusalem
Excellency,
The copy of above Statement which you sent on 18 July 2007 was forwarded to Dr. Richard L. Benkin of Interfaith Strength which is affiliated to American Jewish Committee (AJC).
We are forwarding hereunder his comments for your information, study and consideration.
May Allah Forgive and Bless all of us with Faith, Peace and Justice.
Sincerely yours,
Huq
Kazi Azizul Huq
Team Leader, Human Rights Forum (HRF)
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon (BKA)
Founder Convener, CIRB-Hezbollah
-------------------------------
19 July 2007 from Dr. Richard L.Benkin to Kazi Azizul Huq
Date: Thu, 19 Jul 2007 05:35:24 -0500
Delivered-To: kahuq@dhaka.net
From: "Dr. Richard L. Benkin"
To: "Kazi Azizul Huq"
Subject: Re: News
My Dear Brother Huq,
Sholem Aleichem.
....If things are so bad in Jerusalem under Israel, let them explain this.
Ever since the eternal city of Jerusalem was re-united as part of the sovereign state of Israel, al-Aqsa has flourished as never before. Al-Aqsa has become so well-attended that the Muslim administration of al-Aqsa (Waqf) has found it necessary to dig additional mosques into the Temple Mount. It used heavy equipment and extensive manpower--all allowed it by the Israelis--to build a mosque under al-Aqsa in the area known as Solomon's Stables. And even now they continue to build.
This was never necessary under Jordanian (Muslim) occupation from 1948-1967; this was never necessary under Turkish (Muslim) occupation (for centuries ending 1917). Nor was it ever necessary or requested during the years of British occupation (1917-1948). But under Israel, al-Aqsa has flourished as it never has.
Moreover, Brother Huq, if you and I visited Jerusalem together (May it be G-d's Will) and ascended the Temple Mount together, you would be able to pray in your religion on the Temple Mount. If I attempted to pray in my religion, Israeli police would arrest me.
Your Brother Richard
Dr. Richard L. Benkin
http://www.InterfaithStrength.com
------------------------------------------
22 July 2007 from Chief Rabbi David Rosen to Kazi Azizul Huq
Date: Sun, 22 Jul 2007 10:03:34 +0300
From: "David Rosen"
To: "'Kazi Azizul Huq'"
Cc:
"'H.E. Ambassador of Palestine'"
Subject: RE: News : Statement by NAM on Occupied Palestine
Organization: AJC
Your Excellency,
I concur with Dr. Benkin's reply to you which exposes the hypocrisy of all those who have exploited Palestinian suffering for their own purposes.
Let me say however that a just and fair person would admit that there are things that deserve criticism in Israel's policies since it assumed control over Jerusalem and the West Bank in its defensive action in 1967 when attacked by Jordan, as by Egypt, Syria and others. However, as far as respect for and maintenance of Holy Sites of Islam in the Old City of Jerusalem (as with all Holy Sites of all religions), as Dr. Benkin states, Israel has behaved in a more exemplary manner than all previous controlling powers.
Moreover until the violent suicide murders against Israeli citizens, the Arab residents of greater Jerusalem (who were all offered Israeli citizenship after "67 but mostly declined for understandable political reasons) were still getting health and social benefits from the Israeli state. Furthermore there were no restrictions for them on access to the Haram El Sharif which as Dr. Benkin has mentioned continues to be protected and respected by the government of Israel as an exclusively Muslim holy site. Israel's current limitations on access (in particular, the security wall) were only a response to murderous Palestinian violence. The tragedy of innocent Palestinians is in the shortsightedness of their leadership ( for which however they must also take responsibility, having elected a Hamas government which unequivocally declares its commitment to Israel's destruction) and their inability to control their extremists. Were they to have done so, they would already be living in an independent Palestinian State, which insh'Allah will eventually be established. Whether this takes longer after more bloodshed (on both sides) or comes sooner after less, depends in no small part on the support of the Muslim world for a genuine peace with Israel and a two state solution in this tiny piece of land between the Jordan river and the Mediterranean sea. However this cannot be possible at all until the Palestinians themselves have responsible and effective leadership !
Let me add to Dr. Benkin's comment, that Muslim leaders should visit Al Kuds El Sharifa to see for themselves the situation on the ground and contribute constructively to a resolution, rather than just fan the flames of hatred for selfish propaganda purposes as does the Statement by the Coordinating Bureau of NAM that you passed on.
Finally, allow me to point out for your information that Dr. Benkin is not part of ("affiliated" to) the AJC whose Interreligious Affairs Department is directed by me and its International Affairs department by Mr. Jason Isaacson (isaacsonj@ajc.org )
With prayers that Allah will enlighten our minds and hearts to seek true justice, peace and reconciliation.
Ma Salame,
David Rosen
Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG
Chairman, International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC),
International Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee (AJC)
tel:+972-2-6255281 fax:+972-2-6256527
mailto:rosend@ajc.org http://www:rabbidavidrosen.net
---------------------------------------
Date: Mon, 30 Jul 2007 20:56:17 +0300
From: Sharon Rosen
Subject: In response to the file from the PA
To: cirb.hezbollah@gmail.com
Cc: khelafat@dhaka.net, kahuq@dhaka.net, info.hrf@gmail.com,
"David Rosen (AJC)"
X-Mailer: Microsoft Outlook, Build 10.0.2627
Your Excellency,
I apologize for the delay in responding to your email of July 19th.
With regards to the file from the PA that you sent, I do not claim that every thing that the government of Israel does is right and just – indeed, Israeli society is distinguished from those around it precisely by the fact that in a true democracy, people are free to criticize their governments. Not only can you see this in Israeli daily newspapers (e.g. on line at) www.haaretz.com
but also in the plethora of civil rights organizations that focus overwhelmingly on Arab/Palestinian human rights (including one that I co-founded called Rabbis for Human Rights.)
However to present a litany of Israel's actions against Palestinians as if this was some kind of intentional brutality is to be disingenuous at best. Attached in response to the file from the PA, is a random compilation of daily threats by Palestinians to Israeli civilians in just the last few months. It is such actions as these that lead to the Israeli military's response which the PA file documented.
I have already addressed his Excellency on the matter of the Holy Sites which are fully protected by the government of Israel and that as far as the Haram Al Sharif is concerned, Jewish religious law prohibits Jews from entering thereon. As far as the Gay Parade is concerned, you will no doubt know that the religious authorities and communities here worked hard successfully to prevent this in the past and even when it was permitted this year, was restricted to areas far from any religious site (and far from the Old City.)
As far as libel against Jesus of Nazareth is concerned, you will not find any dignified Jew indulging in such perversities, which when they took place centuries ago, were a reaction of Jewish suffering to Christian oppression. It is obvious to all respectable Rabbinic leadership that such libel is contemptible and condemnable.
I conclude with the prayer that the Almighty and All-Mercifull will enlighten all humanity to live in respect for the life and dignity of all people.
Ma Salame,
David Rosen
Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG
President, International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC)
Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee (AJC)
tel:+972-2-6255281 fax:+972-2-6256527
---------------------------------------
31 July 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 2007 10:58:18 +0600
To: "H.E. Ambassador of Palestine"
From: Kazi Azizul Huq
Subject: Forwarding Response dtd 30 July 2007 from H.E.Chief Rabbi David Rosen
Cc: info@pmo.gov.bd, istiftaa@wilayah.org, info@mofa.gov.sa, eulmert@knesset.gov.il, usdeptstate@mailnj.custhelp.com, cabinet@oic-oci.org, BDEMB@mofa.gov.sa, fs@mofabd.org, registry.bd@undp.org, info@cciranbd.org, rosend@ajc.org.il,
Dhaka, Tuesday July 31, 2007.
To: H.E. Ambassador, Palestine Embassy, Dhaka.
Cc:
H.E. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, CEO, Gov't of Bangladesh
H.E. Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, Rahbar, IR Iran.
H.E. King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, KSA.
H.E. Prime Minister Euhud Olmert, Isreal.
H.E. Secretary General, OIC, Jeddah.
H.E. Secretary General, United Nations, New York.
H.E. Secretary, Department of State, Washington D.C.
Foreign Secretary, GoB, Dhaka.
H.E. Ambassador of KSA, Dhaka.
Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of IR Iran, Dhaka.
Cultural Counsellor, Pakistan High Commission, Dhaka.
H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG,International Director of Interreligious Affairs, AJC.President, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC).
Re: Forwarding Response dtd 30 Jul 2007 from H.E.Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG
vide Statement by the Coordinating Bureau of NAM on Situation in the
Occupied Palestine and East Jerusalem
Excellency,
Reference our ongoing Muslim-Jews Dialogue, we are forwarding hereunder response dated 30 July 2007 received from H.E.Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG, International Director of Interreligious Affairs of American Jewish Committee (AJC) and President of the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC).
May Allah Forgive and Bless all of us with Faith, Peace and Justice.
Maassalam.
Sincerely yours,
Huq
Kazi Azizul Huq
Team Leader, Human Rights Forum (HRF)
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon (BKA)
Cell: 01819-407963, Ph/Fx:+880-2-9881436 E-mail: khelafat@dhaka.net
------------------------------------
1 August 2007 from Palestine Embassy to Kazi Azizul Huq
Date: Wed, 1 Aug 2007 14:40:58 +1100
From: Palestine Embassy
To:
Subject: Palestine Embassy, Dhaka
Dear Mr. Huq
with my best regards, I would like to bring to your kind notice
1- Palestine Embassy in Dhaka represent all of the Palestinian people headed by their legitimate Democratically elected President H. E. Mr. Mahmoud Abbas and further more the Embassy has nothing to do with any group Fateh or Hamas, since it extend help for any Palestinian.
2- The PA works under the umbrella of PLO which represented here at Bangladesh by Palestine Embassy.
3- when we send you files, we stand by it without fear of Mr. Rabi or any other criminal Jews you are intend to establish talk with them, do not you understand from their reply that they consider you as Muslim stupid who listen to them, do you know that Mr. Rabi is responsible for killing hundreds of Palestinians women, Children and old people through helping the killers of Israel Govt.
4- Mr. Huq you should know that Mr. Rabi represent those Jews who raped Musa Alihe assalm’s sister and tried to kill him they are the same people who tried to kill our Profit Mohammad Peace be upon him
5- be sure that if a wild, like lion or tiger change their nature, then Mr. Rabi will do the same, and will never do as long as Israel occupy Palestine.
6- The only solution is to send back the alien Jews to their countries out of Palestine, and allow the Palestinians at Diaspora to return to their homes and let them determined their future on their occupied soil, things which I challenged Mr. Rabi and who he represent to do.
Faik Hamza
Palestine Embassy
-----------------------------------------------
1 August 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy
Date: Wed, 01 Aug 2007 11:52:10 +0600
To: "Palestine Embassy, Dhaka"
From: Kazi Azizul Huq
Subject: Re: Palestine Embassy, Dhaka
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.
Dhaka, Wednesday 01 August 2007.
To: H.E. Ambassador, Palestine Embassy, Dhaka.
Att: Mr. Faik Hamza, Counsellor.
Cc:
H.E. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, CEO, Gov't of Bangladesh
H.E. Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, Rahbar, IR Iran.
H.E. King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, KSA.
H.E. Prime Minister Euhud Olmert, Isreal.
H.E. King Abdullah II, Jordan
H.E. Secretary General, OIC, Jeddah.
H.E. Secretary General, United Nations, New York.
H.E. Secretary, Department of State, Washington D.C.
Foreign Secretary, GoB, Dhaka.
H.E. Ambassador of KSA, Dhaka.
Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of IR Iran, Dhaka.
Cultural Counsellor, Pakistan High Commission, Dhaka.
H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG,
Re: Mail dated 1 August 2007 from Palestine Embassy, Dhaka.
Excellency,
Assalamu Alaikum.
We acknowledge receipt of your above ref mail.
Expression of your anger is human and natural from the representative of a nation wiped out from their legitimate homeland and made stateless. But your comments are not indicative of righteousness, piety and any practical solution.
One can not solve problems by blaming others. We ethnic Muslims are stabbing each other on the back. We ethnic Muslims have deviated from the Path of Piety & Righteousness and have chosen to ignore Divine Scripture, Prophetic Mission and Human Experience. Our Iranian revolutionaries talked so much about the Divine Mission of the United Ummah. But in practice they welcomed US invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq.
Faith and Righteousness is more important today than religious ethnicity. Our Holy Prophet (Sallallahoalaihissalam) taught us not to blame the son for the offence of father. It is not correct to blame all Jews for the wrongs of a few Jew in earlier times. Is it piety for any Muslim to call the Jews sons of pigs and apes? Is it the teaching of our Holy Prophet (SM)?
Our Holy Prophet (Sm) migrated from Makkah to Yathrib (Medina) on the invitation and consent of those most of who were friendly Jews and Pagans. At that time there were less than 500 Muslims in Yathrib (Medina) while the population of Yathrib (Medina) was nearly 10,000 - about fifty percent Jews and fifty percent Pagans. Those majority Jews and Pagans agreed Hazrat Muhammad ibn Abdullah (Sm) to become the political leader and administrator of the City State of Medina and Holy Prophet (Sm) guaranteed their rights and status by Medina Charter which called all citizens of Medina irrespective of religion as "Ummah". On the other hand, Holy Prophet (Sm)'s own relatives and tribe in Makkah were called "Kafir" not because they were idol-worshippers but because they were enemies.
By the Grace of Almighty Allah, though we are apparently weak and poor yet we are steadfast under Guidance & Blessings of Allah and spiritual support of the Holy Prophets and righteous saints (Blessings of Allah be upon them all).
We need the support of principled God fearing people irrespective of their ethnic or religious identities. We need the support of Vatican and other non-materialist believer Christians. We need the support of the Monotheist Jewish Clergies who have been holding important heritage of Divine Scriptures and Missions of Prophets of Allah (Blessings of Allah be upon them all). We need the support of non-materialist believer God-fearing Hindus who have been holding important heritage of Divine Scriptures and Missions of Prophets of Allah (Blessings of Allah be upon them all). We need to understand that the vested interests of elitist agnostics and atheists of Europe led by British administration is the prime enemy of Faith, Righteousness and Justice in the world. We need initial unity of Iran-Taleban-GCC. We need unity of HAMAS, Fatah and other important factions. We are already in the midst of the Third World War. All God fearing righteous people irrespective of ethnic religious identity have to come closer and work together to fulfill Divine Will. Our anger is not going to solve our problem. We need to be God fearing, wise and righteously active.
While we appreciate your feelings, we can not but differ with your perception and judgment. May Allah Bless us all with Faith, Peace and Justice.
Maassalam.
Sincerely yours,
Kazi Aziz
Kazi Azizul Huq (ibn Abdulhuq ibn Izzatullah ibn Abdulhamid)
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon (BKA)
Team Leader, Human Rights Forum (HRF); Founder Convener, CIRB-Hezbollah.
--------------------------
2 August 2007 from Palestine Embassy to Kazi Azizul Huq
Date: Thu, 2 Aug 2007 00:13:52 +1100
From: Palestine Embassy
To: Kazi Azizul Huq
Subject: RE: Palestine Embassy, Dhaka
X-OriginalArrivalTime: 01 Aug 2007 13:13:52.0563 (UTC) FILETIME=[CE7B5030:01C7D43D]
Dear Mr. Huq
I did not express my anger, but the fact which you do not like about the Embassy represents all the Palestinian, you should understand that H E. Abbas is the president of all Palestinian but not a group as u tried to make Mr. Rabbi Understand.
Now we do really know the glorious history of our Islam, and if you did see only the Jews there who opened home for our prophet peace be upon him, then I suggest you go back to the history of those Jews who betrayed each and every agreement our profit sign with them.
not only that but our holy Book the Kuran have enough evidence about the nature of Jews and I do not think that some body like you could term the KURAN as PAST.
I stand by my statement the only solution is let the Jews out of my home and allow me back there.
For you Mr. Huq after all that’s Palestine which occupied by the Jews but not Bangladesh
Faik Hamza
Palestine Embassy
---------------------------------------
2 August 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Palestine Embassy
Date: Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:10:14 +0600
To: "H.E. King Abdulllah Ibn Abdulaziz Al Saud"
"H.E. King Abdullah II, Jordan"
From: Kazi Azizul Huq
Subject: Response to your mail of 02 Aug.3007
Cc: "H.E.Prince Saud Al-Faisal"
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent the Merciful.
Dhaka, Thursday, August 02, 2007.
To: H.E. Ambassador, Palestine Embassy, Dhaka.
Att:Mr. Faik Hamza, Counsellor.
Cc:
H.E. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, CEO, Gov't of Bangladesh
H.E. Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, Rahbar, IR Iran.
H.E. King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, KSA.
H.E. Prime Minister Euhud Olmert, Isreal.
H.E. King Abdullah II, Jordan
H.E. Secretary General, OIC, Jeddah.
H.E. Secretary General, United Nations, New York.
H.E. Secretary, Department of State, Washington D.C.
Foreign Secretary, GoB, Dhaka.
H.E. Ambassador of KSA, Dhaka.
Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of IR Iran, Dhaka.
Cultural Counsellor, Pakistan High Commission, Dhaka.
H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG,International Director of Interreligious Affairs, AJC. President, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC).
Excellency,
Assalamu Alaikum.
1. We hope Palestinian Embassy will represent the whole Palestinian Nation (including HAMAS) instead of Mr. Abbas only who represents an unpopular faction who are largely responsible for most of the undesirable fratricidal crimes in Gaza until HAMAS took over its control.
2. There are both believers and unbelievers (atheists /agnostics) in almost all the ethnic religious communities of the Books including Muslims, Christians, Jews and Hindus. Almighty Allah has promised that irrespective of religious ethnicity whoever believe in Allah and the Last Day and work righteousness shall have their reward with their Lord.
For your information and study I refer following verses of the Holy Quran.
Almighty Allah Says in the Holy Quran:
QUOTE
Surat No.2 Al Baqarah, Verse No.62
"Those who believe and those who follow the Jewish and the Christians and the Sabeins, any who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve."
Surat No.5 Al Maaida, Verses No.44, 45, 46, 47, 48:-
Verses No.44
It was I who revealed The Torah: therein was guidance and light. By its standard have been judged the Jews, by the Prophets who bowed to Allah's Will, by the Rabbis and the Doctors of Law: for to them was entrusted the protection of Allah's Book, and they were witnesses thereto: therefore fear not men, but fear Me, and sell not My Signs for a miserable price. If any do fail to judge by what Allah hath revealed, they are Unbelievers.
Verses No.45
We ordained therein for them: "Life for life, eye for eye, nose for nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth, and wounds equal for equal." But if any one remit the retaliation by way of charity, it is an act of atonement for himself. And if any fail to judge by what Allah hath revealed, they are wrong-doers.
Verses No.46
And in their footsteps I sent Jesus the son of Mary, confirming The Torah that had come before him: I sent him The Gospel: therein was guidance and light; And confirmation of the Torah that had come before him: a guidance and an admonition to those who fear Allah.
Verses No.47
Let the people of The Gospel judge by what Allah hath revealed therein. If any do fail to judge by what Allah hath revealed, they are those who rebel.
Verses No.48
To thee I sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the Scripture that came before it. and guarding it in safety: so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the Truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have I prescribed a Law and an Open Way. If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single People, but to test you what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. The goal of you all is to Allah; it is He that will show you the truth of matters in which you dispute.
UNQUOTE
3. While we respect your emotions, we do not accept your use of scurrilous language - which is prohibited in our religion. We should compete with others in good deeds, not in sins and bad deeds.
4. Arab leaders and Muslim fighters against Turkey's Muslim ruler were no less responsible for the creation of the State of Israel after the First World War. And it was the failure of the Arabs and the Muslims that Israel could expand beyond her 1948 borders. May be it was the Divine Punishment for fighting against Turkey's Muslim ruler.
Therefore, now we have to find out a practical solution without communal bias.
May Almighty Allah Forgive us all and Bless us with success in the Hereafter as well as in this world. May Allah Bless us with Faith, Peace and Justice for all.
Maassalam.
Sincerely yours
Kazi Aziz
Kazi Azizul Huq (ibn Abdulhuq ibn Izzatullah ibn Abdulhamid)
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon (BKA)
Team Leader, Human Rights Forum (HRF)
Founder Convener, CIRB-Hezbollah
------------------------------------
3 August 2007 from Kazi Azizul Huq to Chief Rabbi David Rosen
Sent: Friday, August 03, 2007 5:04 AM
From: Kazi Azizul Huq [ mailto:kahuq@dhaka.net]
To: H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen; rosend@netvision.net.il
Cc: H.E. Ambassador of Palestine; webmaster@shura.gov.sa; webmaster@kingabdullah.jo; info@pmo.gov.bd; istiftaa@wilayah.org; info@mofa.gov.sa; nuntius@dhaka.net; eulmert@knesset.gov.il; usdeptstate@mailnj.custhelp.com; cabinet@oic-oci.org
Subject: Copy of Reply to Palestine Embassy's mail Dtd. 02 Aug.3007
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.
To: H.E. Chief Rabbi David Rosen KCSG
International Director of Interreligious Affairs, AJC.
President, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC).
Re: MUSLIM-JEWS DIALOGUE
Forwarding Copy of Selected Correspondences between 16 April to 02 August 2007
Cc: Selected Concerned Gov'ts, Authorities, Organizations, Personalities.
Excellency,
Assalamu Alaikum.
We are forwarding to your excellency selected correspondence from April 16 to August 02, 2007.
Kindly make a review and comments for moving forward.
We invoke Blessings of One Omnipotent Merciful Allah for peaceful resolution of the conflicts and Justice for all.
With best regards.
Sincerely
Kazi Aziz
Kazi Azizul Huq (ibn Abdulhuq ibn Izzatullah ibn Abdulhamid)
International Affairs Secretary, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon (BKA)
Team Leader, Human Rights Forum (HRF)
Founder Convener, CIRB-Hezbollah
---------------------------------------
3 August 2007 from Chief Rabbi David Rosen to Kazi Azizul Huq
Date: Fri, 03 Aug 2007 11:28:03 +0300
From: Sharon Rosen
Subject: Response in keeping with your request for comment
To: 'Kazi Azizul Huq'
Cc: "'H.E. Ambassador of Palestine'"
webmaster@shura.gov.sa, webmaster@kingabdullah.jo, info@pmo.gov.bd,
istiftaa@wilayah.org, info@mofa.gov.sa, nuntius@dhaka.net,
eulmert@knesset.gov.il, usdeptstate@mailnj.custhelp.com, cabinet@oic-oci.org
Your Excellency,
Allow me to express my admiration for the manner in which you have addressed the issues that have been raised in this correspondence. Naturally there will be matters upon which we disagree, but I believe that the integrity and desire for honest enquiry and discussion that you demonstrate, reflect the most noble values of Islam. If we were all to employ these qualities in our relations with one another, we would be able to resolve all conflicts. Insh'Allah, your example will inspire others in all our communities to follow this path.
In response to Your Excellency's request for my comments on the correspondence below; other than the above, I respond from my own Tradition as follows:-
Judaism teaches that all human and dignity are sacrosanct and accordingly murder of any human being is the most heinous of crimes (Genesis 8v.6)
Moreover any act of intentional disrespect to another, let alone murder, is an assault against the Almighty Himself.( Midrash Genesis Rabbah 24,8;see also Sifri on Leviticus 19v.18)
Judaism teaches us that the essential Divine Attributes of Mercy and Justice oblige us to behave accordingly (Exodus 34 v.6,7; Midrash Canticles Rabbah,3)
It teaches that the goal of Torah (the Divine revelation to Moses) is Peace (Talmud Gittin 50b and 61a; see Maimonides' Code, Hilchot Melachim (Laws of Kings), 10:12) and that murder,theft and lying towards non-Jews are even worse than doing so to Jews, because they involve an additional desecration of the Divine Name (Seder Eliahu Rabbah; Sefer Mitzvoth Gadol, 167d).
Judaism teaches that all the pious/righteous of the nations of the world have their portion in the World to Come, i.e. share in Paradise ( see Maimonides' Code, Hilchot Teshuvah (Laws of Repentance), 3:5, based on the Talmud, Tractate Sanhedrin.)
This applies especially to pious/righteous Muslims, as Judaism recognizes Islam as pure ethical monotheism (e.g. Maimonides, Responsa No. 448; Rabbi Menachem Hameiri, Bet Habechirah, Avodah Zarah; Netanel Ibn Fayummi "Bustan al-Oukoul" )
I conclude by stating the conviction of the overwhelming majority of believing religious/observant Jews, that the establishment of the State of Israel is a demonstration of the Almighty All-Compassionate's fidelity to His promise (Exodus 6v.4; Leviticus 26 v.42,45; Deuteronomy 30v.3-5) the hope for which has been sustained by the vision of the ancient Prophets concerning the reestablishment and revivification of the life of the People of Israel in that land.
Jews have always lived in the Holy Land, even when Christian forces (such as the Byzantines and the Crusaders) kept Jews out of Jerusalem (Of course the situation was very different and very much better, under Islam.) The State of Israel is simply a political mechanism to enable us to maintain in security and prosperity, our collective bond with the land of our ancestors, in keeping with the Divine mandate.
As I have indicated to His Excellency, this could have been achieved in a peaceful and productive way for all the inhabitants of this region (as witnessed in the joint statement signed by the Emir Faisel and Dr.Weizman in 1919.) It is a tragedy for all, that conflict ensued; and while there were, have been and still are, victims on all sides, undoubtedly the Palestinians have been the greatest victims of this and their plight has been widely exploited, not least of all within the Arab world itself. However we must work to bring an end to conflict; live in peace with one another; establish a sovereign Palestinian state living peacefully alongside the State of Israel; and find the way to compensate those Palestinians whose loss can not be restored.
May the Most Merciful enlighten us to follow this path in accordance with His paths of Peace, Justice, Mercy and Love for all,
Yours Faithfully,
David Rosen
Chief Rabbi David Rosen, KCSG
International Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee (AJC)
Chair, the International Jewish Committee for Interreligious Consultations (IJCIC),
tel:+972-2-6255281 fax:+972-2-6256527
APPENDIX
1.LETTER TO CEO OF BANGLADESH GOVERNMENT
Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon
Head Office: N-70, ASHRAFABAD, KAMRANGIRCHAR, DHAKA-1211 BANGLADESH Ph: 7320078
International Department: 24/A, JOAR SHAHARA, DHAKA-1229. Ph: 9881436 E-mail: khelafat@dhaka.net
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful.
"Muslims are my brothers in faith, while non-Muslims are my kin, since we are all children of Adam & Eve (Peace & Blessings of Allah be upon them)." – Hazrat Hafezzi Huzur (RA)
DHAKA February 12, 2007.
To: H.E. Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed, Chief Advisor, Government of Bangladesh
Cc: H.E. Secretary General, Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), Jeddah, KSA
Re: Bangladesh : Muslim-Jewish Relations;
Muhtaram,
Assalamu Alaikum.
Our analysis of the current situation in Bangladesh is that fascism of Awami League (led by Sheikh Hasina), palace conspiracy of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (led by Begum Khaleda Zia), and so-called "FREE MEDIA" & "CIVIL SOCIETY" controlled & manipulated by Euro-American vested interests have almost stripped Bangladesh of her sovereignty.
America & NATO occupied Afghanistan & Iraq and have martyred Shahid President Saddam Hussein obviously with some sort of support of the ruling elite of Muslim states, particularly of GCC, Iran & Pakistan.
While we Muslims ourselves have been stabbing each other on the back, there is no wisdom in quarreling with Israel.
Founder of Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon Late Hazrat Maulana Muhammadullah Hafezzi Huzur (r.a.) said on many occasions, "Muslims are my brothers in faith, while non-Muslims are my kin, since we are all children of Adam & Eve (Peace & Blessings of Allah be upon them)."
Therefore, Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon has been engaged in Dialogues with the Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Tribals, Vatican, American Jewish Committee, Interfaith Strength, US, EU, USIP, DFID etc., to remove mutual suspicion and hatred and reduce unwanted pressures on Bangladesh, specially on Islamic religious activists.
Now it seems necessary to request our Bangladesh Government to drop charges against Mr. Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury, Editor of the Weekly Blitz. US Congress and European Parliament passed resolutions in his favor. More resolutions are in process. Though we do not agree with Mr. Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury yet we defend his freedom of expression. So far we know, he is a fearless upright journalist who spent many months in jail during both Sheikh Hasina's rule and Begum Khaleda Zia's rule. He seems to be not a type of man who can be spy of any state. He defends the case of Israel openly. We think that he is safer for us than those elite of our country who pretend to be patriot but are actually secret agents of those foreigners who want to dominate and humiliate us.
Ban on Travel to Israel has no religious basis. Rather obstacles on the way of pious Muslims' religious visits to Holy places in Jerusalem and in neighboring lands should be removed.
So, we request our Government to remove any travel ban from the Ordinary International Passport of Bangladesh which should be valid for travel to all countries of the world.
Further, we need face-to-face debate and dialogue between those who defend the Rights of the Palestinians and those who defend the Rights of the Jews & Israel. We want intellectuals as well as religious clergies and leaders to participate in such debates and dialogues.
This, we hope, will make both sides more informed and less suspicious. This may open new opportunities for all sides towards a better future.
Thanking you for your kind appreciation and action.
Maassalama.
Kazi Azizul Huq, Secretary,
International Affairs Department
Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon
Tel:(880-2)9881436, 01819-407963 Fax:(880-2)9881436
E-mails: khelafat@dhaka.net, info.bka@gmail.com, kahuq@dhaka.net
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2.
Interview of Kazi Azizul Huq with the Blitz Editor
Weekly Blitz 27 Feb 2007
Blitz: In the international media there have been certain campaign saying that your party is a radical group, which supports terrorism in the name of Islam and also it supports suicide bombing and jihad for killing Jews and Christians. What is your opinion about that?
Huq: The allegations you are referring to specifically ending at Bangladesh Khelafat Andolan, I have never heard that way. Because in Bangladesh such a situation is not existent, and as regards international situation, yes, we support the liberation movement of Afghanistan, not the NATO occupation and US occupation. Yes, we support those who are struggling to liberate Iraq from the occupation of USA and their allies and also we support the liberation struggle of the Palestinians. But, we have reservations about fixing human beings, innocent people as targets for military attack. In fact in our opinion, the way now-a-days explosive and other ammunitions are used against civilians was initiated by the US military at the end of the Second World War, when they dropped nuclear weapons on the civilians of Japan. And such a practice has become rampant all over the world which in Islam we do not accept. Yes, in modern warfare there are some collateral damages. If the strugglers or the liberation forces are Muslims it is an obligation to minimize collateral damages and to be specific about military targets. Regarding terrorist activities, we mean killing innocent people, putting bomb in railways, putting bomb on residential areas etc., we do not support. We think such practice must be changed. In recent days, for example, in Iraq, they are targeting American helicopters. We think that is the right way of dealing with the matter. We should not target the civilians the way Jamaatul Mujahedin in Bangladesh was doing.
Blitz: You just mentioned that you support the so-called liberation movement in Afghanistan. Does it mean that you support the Talibans to be back in power?
Huq: Yes, we support the Talibans. But we think that they need to be abreast of time. It is very much needed for them to understand that to run a government at our time, it should be acceptable to the international community as well as to the people of the nation. Talibans, I think, they made some mistakes, and such mistakes should not be repeated.
Blitz: You just said that BKA opposes using civilians as human shields. But in recent war between Israel and Lebanon, Hezbollah used so many innocent civilians as human shields. How you would look into this issue?
Huq: I don’t think that Hezbollah used civilians as human shields. Rather the situation is, the area Israel choose to attack, civilians there did not intend to leave their homes in spite of the threat of military attacks from Israel. May be because they had been sympathetic to the Hezbollah and they supported the Hezbollah.
Blitz: But, so far we know, the innocent civilians were not allowed to leave their houses and forced to stay at home by the militant members of Hezbollah, in order to let them become human shields. What would be your comment on it?
Huq: We don’t have exact information in this regard, but whatever we have learnt from the media like Al Jazeera, BBC, and CNN etc., it was made clear that those people voluntarily remained there. They did not want to leave their homes.
Blitz: Do you support religious freedom?
Huq: Surely! Our leader Hafezzi Huzur in many meetings said, “Muslim are my brothers and sister and non-Muslims are my kin’, because we all are the children of Adam & Eve (Peace be upon them). So, non-Muslims always exist in the Muslim society. And they are free to practice their religion. Yes, Muslim clergies will also continue to preach Islam, and if any of them voluntarily decides to adopt Islam they must also be given that option. But no one should be forced to obey Islam.
Blitz: Recently your party has written a letter to the Chief Advisor in Bangladesh, suggesting withdrawal of existing travel ban on Israel. What was the point that moved you in taking such an excellent step?
Huq: We have written to the Chief Advisor of the present government mentioning details of this issue. We see that occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq has been clandestinely supported by Iran. They even celebrated these occupations. So in this case, our understanding is that, it is simply unnecessary to quarrel with Israel. When the Muslims themselves are stabbing each-other at the back, what is the necessity of quarrelling with Israel? As to the travel ban, it is not a religious ban. Because, Allah never prohibited Muslims from traveling to any country in the world. Even when the Muslims were driven out of Mecca, and the Ka’aba was controlled by the polytheists, Prophet Muhammed (Peace be upon him) traveled to Mecca and performed Umra. So, though at that time, Mecca was under occupation of the polytheists, statues and idols were inside Ka’aba, still Prophet visited Mecca and offered prayer at Ka’aba. So why Bangladesh Governemnt restrictions on traveling to Jerusalem should not be withdrawn? It is one of our holiest places. .. So, Muslims in Bangladesh should not be deprived of visiting holy places in Jerusalem.
Blitz: Finally, what is your opinion about the Palestinian suicide bombers?
Huq: To commit suicide is prohibited in Islam. But Islamic Shariah is non-rigid, flexible and elastic. For example, pork and wine are prohibited in Islam. But if someone is in such a situation that he or she does not have anything to eat and drink but pork and wine, then he or she may take pork and wine as little as possible to save life. Similarly if there is no other way to confront the enemy but to sacrifice one’s own life then it may be permissible as little as possible to confront the armed enemy. But it can not be made a common practice of war. A Muslim must not be revengeful. Muslims must not target unarmed civilians of enemy nation or community.
