In a statement released on September 21, 2026, Sheikh Sadek Ahmed Al-Othmani, the general secretary of the Association of Muslim Scholars in Latin America, expressed his concerns over a recent statement by the Global Assembly for the Prophet, led by Sheikh Mohammed Al-Saghir. The statement, issued on September 17, 2026, condemned Morocco's decision to normalize relations with Israel, calling it "forbidden in all circumstances and times." Al-Othmani argued that such a stance not only oversteps the bounds of legitimate criticism but also disregards the complexities of international relations and the principles of Islamic jurisprudence.
Al-Othmani emphasized that while the Palestinian cause and Jerusalem are deeply revered in the Muslim world, this does not justify interfering in the sovereign decisions of other nations or imposing a particular viewpoint as a matter of religious obligation. He noted that the Global Assembly's statement failed to provide a nuanced analysis, instead opting for a blanket condemnation that does not account for the various forms of international engagement, such as treaties, diplomatic relations, and economic cooperation.
The scholar highlighted the Prophet Muhammad's approach to dealing with non-Muslims, which was characterized by a clear distinction between matters of faith and practical arrangements. He cited the Constitution of Medina, which established a framework for coexistence between Muslims, Jews, and others, demonstrating that differences in belief do not necessarily preclude cooperation or mutual recognition. Al-Othmani also referenced the Prophet's interactions with Jewish communities, such as the agreement to work together in Khaybar, illustrating that political and economic relationships can coexist with religious differences.
Al-Othmani criticized the Global Assembly's statement for failing to consider the specific context and potential consequences of its call to action. He argued that Islamic jurisprudence requires a careful assessment of the outcomes and implications of political decisions, rather than relying on simplistic or dogmatic approaches. The scholar also questioned the legitimacy of the Global Assembly to issue such a statement, given its status as a non-official organization and its lack of expertise in international relations and Islamic jurisprudence.
Furthermore, Al-Othmani expressed concern over the statement's appeal to the Moroccan people to express their opposition to the normalization of relations with Israel "by all available means." He saw this as an attempt to mobilize public opinion and undermine the Moroccan government's decision, which is a sovereign matter. Al-Othmani emphasized that, according to the Moroccan Constitution, the Supreme Council of Ulemas is the official body responsible for issuing fatwas and advising on matters of faith and law.
The scholar concluded that, in Islam, offering advice and guidance must be done with wisdom, compassion, and a deep understanding of the context and potential outcomes. He cautioned against using the Palestinian cause as a pretext for promoting division, chaos, or harm to others, emphasizing that Islamic teachings call for balance, justice, and the pursuit of peace and stability.
Al-Othmani's critique reflects a broader debate within the Muslim world about the role of religion in international relations and the limits of legitimate advocacy. As Morocco and Israel move forward with their normalization agreement, the discussion is likely to continue, with scholars and policymakers grappling with the complex intersections of faith, politics, and diplomacy.
Key points
- Moroccan scholar Sheikh Sadek Ahmed Al-Othmani criticizes a statement by the Global Assembly for the Prophet, calling for the rejection of Morocco's normalization with Israel.
- Al-Othmani argues that the statement disregards the complexities of international relations and the principles of Islamic jurisprudence.
- The scholar emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to international engagement, citing the Prophet Muhammad's interactions with non-Muslims and the principles of Islamic jurisprudence.
