The grand imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, has warned of the growing threat of Islamophobia, urging global action to curb its spread.
In a speech delivered to the UN General Assembly on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, his message, read by Egypt’s UN representative Osama Abdel Khalek, emphasized the dangers posed by anti-Muslim sentiment worldwide.
Al-Tayeb, who also chairs the Muslim Council of Elders, described Islamophobia as an “irrational and illogical phenomenon” that threatens global peace.
He stressed that the term “Islam” itself shares linguistic roots with “peace” in Arabic, highlighting the religion’s fundamental principles of mercy, love, and coexistence.
He attributed the rise of anti-Muslim sentiment to long-standing media distortions and far-right rhetoric that falsely portray Islam as a religion of violence.
Such narratives, he said, are among “the greatest lies in contemporary history.”
The grand imam also condemned the exploitation of terrorist acts by groups that do not represent Islam, arguing that such incidents are used to justify widespread discrimination against Muslims.
To counteract Islamophobia, he called for an internationally recognized definition of the term, as well as updated legal frameworks to document and prevent discrimination.
He also urged nations to enact laws promoting dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
In 2022, the UN General Assembly designated March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, aiming to foster respect for religious diversity and human rights.
While non-binding, the resolution calls for intensified global efforts to counter intolerance and prejudice.