11/12/2020 Africa (International Christian Concern) – Two different terrorist groups in Africa have called on Muslims worldwide, but especially those in their areas to emulate the recent attacks that have taken place in France. Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Al-Shabaab both released messages praising the actions of Islamic terrorists in France who have killed multiple people in attacks on civilians there.
AQIM is based out of Mali in West Africa and has been one of the largest and worst perpetrators of terrorist attacks on the continent. They have been able to conduct attacks in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger at least. In their statement, they say that “ Killing the one who insults the prophet is the right of every Muslim capable of applying it.” They also say that those who hear someone blaspheme Muhammad do not have to ask permission to kill, they should just do it if possible.
Al-Shabaab, based out of Somalia, is one of the three largest and most violent terrorist groups in the world. They continue to hold sway over much of Southern Somalia despite fighting the government for nearly a decade. This group also made statements saying that Muslims need to continue attacks like the recent stabbing of several civilians and the beheading of a teacher in France.
With the vast influence that these two groups hold in Africa, it is likely that there could be an increase in attacks on civilians for the supposed crime of blasphemy. Somalia and Mali are already two of the worst perpetrators of violence against Christians in the world because of to these two groups. With the release of these statements, even more people’s lives could be at risk, and freedom of speech will be further reduced. Please pray for our brothers and sisters who live under the harsh and evil rule of these two organizations.
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