Tallaght, Ireland – A well-known Muslim religious leader, Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, has spoken out about being the victim of a brutal attack that he believes was motivated by hate. The Chairperson of the Irish Muslim Council revealed that he was lured to a meeting in the Tallaght area of South Co Dublin, where he was then assaulted.
Taking to social media, Dr Al-Qadri detailed the harrowing experience, stating that he had been the victim of a deliberate hate crime. He expressed gratitude towards the Irish individuals who came to his aid after the attack, as well as the members of his community who provided immediate support.
The attack left Dr Al-Qadri hospitalized with severe swelling on the left side of his face and damage to his front teeth. Despite the traumatic experience, he conveyed his appreciation and love for Ireland and its people, emphasizing that the incident does not change his deep connection to the country.
Gardai, the national police service of Ireland, have confirmed that the matter is under investigation as an alleged assault and robbery. Speaking about the perpetrators, Dr Al-Qadri expressed surprise that they were Irish individuals, as he had been expecting to meet migrants.
The attack on Dr Al-Qadri has sparked widespread condemnation, drawing attention from various individuals and groups, including Holocaust survivor Tomi Reichental, who expressed deep concern and offered support for a full recovery. Additionally, a friend of Dr Al-Qadri, Assad Ali, commended the locals who intervened and assisted after the attack, preventing a potentially worse outcome.
The assault on Dr Al-Qadri serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to promote integration, tolerance, and safety for all individuals, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds. The incident has prompted calls for solidarity and action to ensure the protection of religious and ethnic minorities in Ireland.
The details of the attack have sparked outrage and concern, with many emphasizing the importance of standing against hate and violence, and working towards creating a society where all can practice their beliefs without fear of discrimination or harm.