Violent Protest at Swedish Embassy in Baghdad over Quran Burning Incident
A group of individuals forcefully entered the compound of the Swedish embassy in Baghdad, Iraq’s capital, following a protest in Sweden where a copy of the Quran was burned. The Quran burning, carried out by Salwan Momika, an Iraqi residing in Sweden, took place outside Stockholm’s central mosque. Numerous Muslim-majority countries condemned the act.
Outrage and Embassy Incursion in Baghdad
Responding to a call from a prominent cleric for an “angry” protest, a crowd gathered outside the Swedish embassy in Baghdad on Thursday. Social media videos showed dozens of protesters entering the embassy courtyard. According to an AFP news agency photographer present at the scene, the crowd briefly entered the building, staying inside for approximately 15 minutes before dispersing upon the arrival of local security forces.
Quran Desecration and its Significance
Muslims consider the Quran to be the sacred word of God, and any deliberate damage or display of disrespect towards it is deeply offensive. The Quran burning incident coincided with the celebration of Eid al-Adha, one of the most significant festivals in the Muslim calendar observed worldwide.
International Reactions and Condemnation
The permit granted to Mr. Momika by Swedish police for the protest, in compliance with free-speech laws, was later subject to investigation for incitement of hatred. The incident sparked anger in several Muslim-majority nations, including Turkey, which voiced its disapproval over allowing “anti-Islamic actions” to occur under the guise of freedom of expression. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan stated that insulting Muslims is not a form of freedom of thought and vowed to confront such behavior.
Global Condemnation and Diplomatic Actions
Countries such as Iraq, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan strongly criticized the Quran burning incident. Iraq denounced it as a manifestation of hateful aggression unrelated to freedom of expression. Iran and Egypt deemed the act provocative and unacceptable, while Saudi Arabia, currently hosting millions of Hajj pilgrims, unequivocally rejected these repeated hateful actions. Morocco and Jordan recalled their ambassadors to Stockholm, and Morocco summoned Sweden’s charge d’affaires in Rabat. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson acknowledged the legality but questioned the appropriateness of the Quran burning, which has previously incited riots in Sweden.
SOURCE: Ref Image from the Workers Right
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