On the occasion of World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on August 19th, the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, calls for intensified international efforts to protect millions of innocent civilians who are suffering from dire humanitarian conditions due to food, water, and medicine shortages caused by the escalation of wars, conflicts, and crises in various regions around the world. These crises have led to an increase in the number of refugees, displaced persons, and those who have lost their homes and shelter.

In a statement issued on this occasion, the Muslim Council of Elders emphasizes that humanitarian work is one of the greatest duties advocated by all divine religions, particularly Islam, which calls for compassion and solidarity. This is a necessity dictated by our shared humanity. The Council highlights the need to work towards rebuilding hope for millions of innocent civilians who are suffering from the horrors of crises, disasters, wars, and conflicts. It also underscores the importance of providing necessary protection for humanitarian workers, offering them support and assistance, and stopping attacks against them.

The Muslim Council of Elders is making significant efforts to emphasize the importance of promoting values of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence, raising awareness about the importance of humanitarian and social solidarity, and extending a helping hand to every human being, especially the vulnerable and those most in need. This is in line with the principles outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and His Holiness Pope Francis, the Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019.