Oxford Mosque Targeted with ‘Islamophobic Attack’ after Support for Palestine
A petrol can with the words "IDF RULE" and "IDF", referring to the so-called “Israel Defence Forces”, was thrown over the wall of Central Oxford Mosque on October 28.
The police have classified the incident as a hate crime and are working with the mosque and the local community to ensure their safety.
The Council of Mosques issued a statement, condemning the incident as an "Islamophobic and terrorist attack" by a "lone terrorist".
The statement said that the mosque had displayed Palestinian flags around its premises to show its "unwavering support" for the people of Palestine, who are facing "indiscriminate and illegal" massacres by Israel.
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The statement also said that the mosque would not be intimidated by this attack and would continue to exercise its democratic right and solidarity with the Palestinians.
Thames Valley Police said that no one was injured by the petrol can, which was empty, but that it "may be related to the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza".
Deputy Inspector James Holden-White said that they were conducting further patrols in the area and reassuring the mosque and the community of their security. He also said that anyone with information about the incident should contact the police.
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The attack comes amid an increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes in a number of Western countries, including in the UK and the US amid a war that started between Palestinian resistance movement Hamas and the Israeli regime since October 7 after the former launched a surprise offensive on occupied territories that claimed lives of some 1400 Israeli soldiers and settlers.
The Israeli regime, in response, launched a relentless bombing campaign in Gaza which has killed at least 7,700 people, mostly women and children.
Source: Agencies
