London, UK, February 1 – Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain strongly condemns the reprinting of caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by leading European newspapers. The reprinting of the caricatures in the name of "freedom of speech" has once again illustrated that the "war on terror" means it is open season on Muslims and Islam. Western governments hold aloft the banner of "freedom of speech" when it comes to insulting Muslims and Islam, yet attempt to silence through fear, intimidation and draconian legislation, Muslims who criticise Western foreign policy or adhere to the Islamic injunctions on dress.
Dr Imran Waheed, a media representative of Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain, said, "Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain condemns these provocative moves by some Western media outlets to use cheap insults to attack Islam rather than engage in sincere and robust debate. While some Western governments seek to silence opposition to their brutal occupation of Iraq through medieval laws and others prevent Muslim women from wearing the Islamic dress, they expect Muslims to accept their 'freedom' to insult and disparage Muslims and Islam. While Muslims welcome intellectual debate and discourse, the use of cheap insults behind the veil of 'free speech' is further evidence that the battle for the hearts and minds of Muslims has been lost."
"Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain is urgently contacting European ambassadors in London to express serious concerns over these provocative actions. We also encourage Muslims in Europe to contact the diplomatic missions of Muslim countries to demand that they take action against those who have undertaken and encouraged the publication of these caricatures."
"Finally, we note the further decay of secular liberal societies who believe that it is perfectly acceptable to insult and defame religious communities whether they are Muslims, Christians or Jews. The Islamic Caliphate historically ensured that Muslims and non-Muslims were protected from such wanton disrespect."
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