Concerns Rise Over Attacks on Muslim Worship Places in Cyprus
In the wake of the recent vandalism at the Albanian Mosque in Limassol, the Mufti’s Office of Cyprus (EVKAF) has voiced its alarm over the escalating number of assaults on Muslim places of worship within the Republic-of-Cyprus-controlled areas. The incident, which involved unidentified individuals defacing the mosque’s walls, has sparked a strong reaction from EVKAF.
“As the Administration of Cyprus Foundations (EVKAF), we are concerned about the increasing number of attacks on Muslim places of worship in Southern Cyprus in recent years, and we strongly condemn this ugly attack on the Albanian Mosque,” stated EVKAF. They condemned the attack and called for an end to such provocative acts, urging authorities to identify and punish those responsible.
The Mufti’s Office highlighted their dedication to preserving religious monuments and their respect for all languages, religions, and races. In light of these events, they have urged competent authorities to take swift action to bring those involved in the incident to justice.
Meanwhile, the self-declared “ministry of foreign affairs” in the occupied north has issued a separate statement regarding the continuous mosque attacks. They accused the Greek Cypriot side of harboring a “racist mentality and xenophobia towards the Turkish and Islamic presence.” The ministry criticized the lack of punitive measures against perpetrators of such attacks, suggesting that this impunity may be contributing to the recurrence of these offenses.
The so-called ministry echoed EVKAF’s sentiments, demanding that those who vandalize Muslim places of worship be identified and prosecuted. The concern over increasing number of attacks on these sacred sites has brought to light the need for heightened vigilance and cooperation between communities to ensure that all religious institutions are respected and protected.
