The Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council (IMPIC) is deeply shocked and saddened by the brutal stabbing of a Garda officer on Capel Street. We condemn this heinous and cowardly act in the strongest possible terms.
An attack on a member of An Garda Síochána is not merely an attack on an individual, it is an assault on the peace, security, and values that uphold our entire society. Gardaí serve all communities across Ireland with courage and selflessness, often placing themselves in harm’s way to protect others. They deserve our unwavering respect, support, and gratitude.
Violence of this nature is utterly unacceptable and must be unequivocally rejected by all sectors of society, political, religious, and civic. There is no justification for such acts in a democratic, inclusive, and pluralistic nation like Ireland.
We are aware of reports that the alleged attacker shouted the phrase “Allahu Akbar” during the incident. As an Islamic phrase that is deeply spiritual and routinely used by billions of Muslims around the world in daily prayers and peaceful contexts, its misuse in acts of violence is profoundly disturbing and offensive to the Muslim community. Such actions represent a dangerous distortion of our faith.
Since our founding in 2015, IMPIC has consistently spoken out against all forms of extremism, radicalisation, and hate. In light of this incident and the reported misuse of Islamic references, IMPIC is voluntarily offering its services and expertise to the relevant authorities to assist in any investigation, provide contextual understanding, and support efforts to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies.
We are also aware of the circulation of disturbing videos on social media and urge the public to refrain from sharing such content. It is essential that the justice process be allowed to proceed without prejudice or undue influence.
As an organisation representing Irish Muslims committed to peace, integration, and social cohesion, we wish to make it absolutely clear: the actions of one individual must not, and do not, define an entire community. Irish Muslims have lived peacefully in this country for decades. They are doctors, teachers, entrepreneurs, students, and public servants contributing positively to the fabric of Irish society each and every day.
Islam unequivocally rejects violence. No ideology, grievance, or belief can justify an act of brutality. To assign collective blame based on religion or ethnicity is not only unjust, it undermines the very principles of justice and equality that both Irish and Islamic values hold dear.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured Garda officer, his family, and the wider Garda community. We wish him a full and speedy recovery.
The Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council stands in full solidarity with all who work to keep our society safe, and with all communities who reject violence, extremism, and hatred. We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to building a peaceful, inclusive Ireland for all.
https://irishmuslimcouncil.ie/2025/08/01/statement-on-attack-on-garda-officer
