BRUSSELS: The European Union (EU) has expressed its “strong rejection” of the recent Holy Qur’an burning incident in Sweden, labeling it as “offensive, disrespectful, and a clear act of provocation.”
In a statement, the EU emphasized that this act does not reflect the opinions of the European Union and firmly condemned manifestations of racism, xenophobia, and related intolerance.
The EU highlighted the deplorable nature of the Holy Qur’an burning, particularly as it took place during the celebration of Eid Al-Adha, a significant Muslim religious occasion. The statement reiterated the EU’s commitment to upholding freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression, both within Europe and abroad. It emphasized the importance of standing together for mutual understanding and respect, as well as the need to prevent any further escalation.
EU Acknowledges Protest in Baghdad
The European Union also acknowledged the developments in Iraq closely, specifically referring to the thousands of protesters who gathered in front of the Swedish embassy in Baghdad on Friday to demand the termination of diplomatic ties with Stockholm. The EU’s statement indicated its monitoring of the situation and concern for the potential consequences.
The incident in question involved Salwan Momika, an individual who had fled Iraq and resided in Sweden for several years. Earlier this week, he stomped on the Qur’an and set several pages on fire in front of a mosque in Stockholm. Although the police had granted him a permit for the protest, citing free-speech protections, Momika was charged with “agitation against an ethnic group.”
The Muslim and Arab world has widely condemned Momika’s actions, with many countries recalling their envoys and summoning Swedish ambassadors to express their objections and demand an explanation. The Organization of Islamic Cooperation has called for an emergency meeting of its executive committee to discuss the consequences of the Qur’an burning incident in Sweden.