Early this morning, the Syrian government launched a violent military attack on the city of Homs, massacring hundreds. The bombs dropped on a large group of protestors and reports suggest that at least 260 people were killed. In light of these events, there are some key points which we the Muslims must be reminded of:

1. The mass murder in Homs is truly a sign of the last desperate act of a dictator who knows his time is up. He has declared open war on his own people, bombing unarmed women and children in a non-violent protest. We should be in no doubt that this man and this regime have nothing but hatred in their hearts towards Islam and their own people.

2. The demands of the people are clearly for removing the tyranny of the Assad regime and establishing Shari’ah. This has been the clear and consistent message throughout, as evidenced by the chants and banners that have characterised the protests.

3. While the West will no doubt use this attack to pursue their interest, the words of the likes of Hilary Clinton, William Hague and other western politicians ring hollow in the ears of all Muslims, who have long been aware of their support of the regimes across the middle east. The regime must go, but we will not be fooled into allowing the involvement of the very people who have allowed it to exist for so long.

4. Let us make sincere and continuous du’a for the people of Syria, who take to the streets despite the threat of torture and death. May Allah raise those who have been martyred to Jannah, and give victory to the Muslims.

“Think not of those who are slain in Allah’s way as dead. Nay, they live, finding their sustenance in the presence of their Lord;
They rejoice in the bounty provided by Allah: And with regard to those left behind, who have not yet joined them (in their bliss), the (Martyrs) glory in the fact that on them is no fear, nor have they (cause to) grieve.” (TMQ 3:169)