Imams in the Crossfire | Sydney News

Sheikh Shadi Asuleiman, president of the Australian National Imams Council, testified before a Royal Commission on antisemitism after controversy erupted over remarks by imam Sheikh Ibrahim Dadoun calling October 7 a “day of victory.” While Dadoun later clarified he meant Palestinians breaking a 16-year blockade—not endorsing violence—and emphasized no innocent lives were condoned, Asuleiman confirmed Dadoun had already resigned from the council prior to the incident. The council’s approach prioritizes reconciliation over exclusion, and they deemed Dadoun’s public clarification sufficient. Asuleiman also criticized media for misrepresenting Dadoun’s comments, noting that joint statements from Muslim organizations—including his own—explicitly rejected any endorsement of bloodshed. He stressed religious leaders’ duty in shaping rhetoric responsibly, and while agreeing with the joint statement’s sentiment, noted his council wasn’t its lead drafter. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/bd182a80569b8aad