Australia’s first Muslim Party launched

The Australian National Imams Council has hit back at suggestions the grand mufti of Australia did not condemn the deadly terrorist attacks in Paris strongly enough.

From his side, Australia’s Grand Mufti Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammed focused instead on what he labelled causative factors such as racism, Islamophobia and “duplicitous” foreign policy.

The Grand Mufti of Australia says current strategies to combat terrorism are not working.

Mr Mohamed condemned the attacks in Paris and said Islam strictly forbade the killing of innocent people. “In particular Muslims, but Australians as well”. Australia’s treasurer Scott Morrison said: “Australians were let down by the mufti”. “We did give it a few thought whether or not we should postpone it (the launch)… or call it off for a while given the recent events overseas”, he said.

On Tuesday, lawmakers and media commentators slammed the statement.

The Grand Mufti of Australia has broken his silence following a torrent of criticism of his reaction to the Paris attacks, comparing himself to other great figures mocked for their views – namely Jesus Christ.

He said: “Of course, this extremist ideology is not true Islam”.

Releasing statements in Arabic and French the group claimed the “blessed battle” was an act of revenge for France’s involvement in the US-led coalition bombing its militants in Iraq and Syria. Even in the parliamentary constituency with the highest proportion of Muslims, just over 20% of people follow the Islamic faith.

Citing the horrific incidents in Paris and Beirut that took place last Friday, he said he would never accept any justification for such heinous behaviour and his party would never support any military deployment in any Muslim country as a response to terrorism.

The situation is under “constant” review with Australia’s domestic security agencies monitoring approximately 400 individuals, while Australia’s terror alert level remains at “high”, indicating an attack is likely.

His comments were condemned by government figures who said it was a “very poor message” to send and that he could be seen as an apologist.