Hefazat-e-Islam mourns deaths in Riyadh airport attack
Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh has expressed deep sorrow, outrage and concern over a Houthi attack on an international airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, that reportedly killed 12 people, including two Bangladeshis, and injured more than 300 passengers and civilians.
In a condolence statement sent to the media on Monday (October 12), the organisation’s Amir, Allama Shah Muhibbullah Babunagari, and Secretary General Allama Shaikh Sajidur Rahman said such an attack on a civilian facility like an international airport was unacceptable.
They said the attack was a grave violation of international law, fundamental human rights and humanitarian values, adding that such attacks on innocent people had shocked the conscience of the world.
The two leaders prayed for the deceased, including the two Bangladeshis, and expressed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. They also wished the injured a speedy and full recovery.
In view of the severity of the attack and the suffering caused, the leaders called on the Saudi government and relevant international organisations to ensure adequate financial compensation for the families of all victims.
They also demanded free, advanced medical treatment for the injured and urgent humanitarian assistance for affected families.
The leaders said the bodies of the deceased Bangladeshis should be repatriated promptly for burial with dignity if their families wished, or buried abroad with due respect.
They urged Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment to take prompt diplomatic steps to ensure that the bereaved families receive their legal entitlements and compensation.
They also called on the United Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the international community to take firm and visible measures to maintain regional peace and stability and prevent attacks on airports and other civilian facilities.
The leaders prayed to Almighty Allah to grant patience to the bereaved families and for lasting peace, security and stability in the Middle East and across the world.
