In response to the recent desecration of the Quran in Sweden, Iraq has taken a bold and significant step by expelling the Swedish ambassador from the country. The incident has sparked outrage and condemnation from various nations worldwide.
Prime Minister’s Displeasure
Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohamed Shia al-Sudani, expressed his strong displeasure and concern over Sweden’s repeated incidents of Quran burning and insulting Islamic sanctities. The desecration of the Iraqi flag further added to the tension, prompting the Iraqi government to take decisive action.
Protests and Free Speech Debate
The prime minister pointed out that past instances of burning religious symbols and books by far-right activists in Sweden have ignited protests in several European countries. Critics argue that such acts hide behind free speech protections, fueling the ongoing debate over the balance between freedom of expression and the protection of religious sensitivities.
International Condemnation
The United States and Pakistan have also voiced their condemnation of the Quran’s desecration and similar acts targeting religious books. The U.S. Department of State spokesperson, Matthew Miller, described these acts as heinous and stressed the importance of respecting the Holy Quran and all religious rites. Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson firmly denounced the Islamophobic act in Sweden and called for measures to prevent and prohibit deliberate incitement to religious hatred and discrimination.
