In a significant addition, a Holy Quran museum has been inaugurated in Mecca's Hira Cultural District, spanning about 67,000 square meters.

Saudi Arabia: Holy Quran museum opens in Mecca’s cultural district

The man who repeatedly burnt the holy book Quran, in the year 2023 in Sweden, igniting massive outrage in Muslim countries, has been shot dead, said police on Thursday (Jan 30).
A Stockholm court was scheduled to deliver its verdict on Thursday concerning Salwan Momika, an Iraqi Christian, who was accused of inciting ethnic hatred for burning the Quran at multiple protests.
The court postponed the ruling until February 3 stating that "because Salwan Momika has died, more time is needed."
Police released a statement saying that earlier, they were alerted about a shooting incident that occurred in the city of Sodertalje, where Momika lived.
The incident took place indoors and when the police arrived at the scene, they found a man who had been "hit by shots and the man was taken to hospital", added the statement.
In a subsequent update, authorities confirmed that the individual had succumbed to his injuries, and a murder inquiry had been initiated.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-salwan-momika-the-man-shot-dead-in-sweden-for-burning-quran-8674357">Also read: Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran?</a>
<h2>Five suspects arrested over Momika's killing&nbsp;</h2>
Swedish police on Thursday said that the officials arrested five suspects in the killing of Momika.
"Police arrested five people overnight. Prosecutors have detained them," a police statement said.
<h2>Shooting may have been broadcast live on social media</h2>
Multiple news sources identified the deceased as Salwan Momika and reported that the shooting may have been streamed live on social media platforms.
In August 2024, Momika, along with one of his co-protesters Salwan Najem, was charged with "agitation against an ethnic group" at four events in the summer of 2023.
As per the charge sheet, both Momika and Najem desecrated the Quran by burning it and making derogatory remarks about Islam. One of the instances was outside a &nbsp;Stockholm mosque.
The duo's protest led to strained relations between Sweden and several Middle Eastern countries.
Reports at the time suggested that, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission to protest by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation into "agitation against an ethnic group".
(With inputs from agencies)

World news: Multiple news sources identified the deceased as Salwan Momika and reported that the shooting may have been streamed live on social media platforms.

The man who repeatedly burnt the holy book Quran, in the year 2023 in Sweden, igniting massive outrage in Muslim countries, has been shot dead, said police on Thursday (Jan 30). A Stockholm court was scheduled to deliver its verdict on Thursday concerning Salwan Momika, an Iraqi Christian, who was accused of inciting ethnic hatred for burning the Quran at multiple protests. The court postponed the ruling until February 3 stating that "because Salwan Momika has died, more time is needed." Police released a statement saying that earlier, they were alerted about a shooting incident that occurred in the city of Sodertalje, where Momika lived. The incident took place indoors and when the police arrived at the scene, they found a man who had been "hit by shots and the man was taken to hospital", added the statement. In a subsequent update, authorities confirmed that the individual had succumbed to his injuries, and a murder inquiry had been initiated. Also read: Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran? Five suspects arrested over Momika's killing Swedish police on Thursday said that the officials arrested five suspects in the killing of Momika. "Police arrested five people overnight. Prosecutors have detained them," a police statement said. Shooting may have been broadcast live on social media Multiple news sources identified the deceased as Salwan Momika and reported that the shooting may have been streamed live on social media platforms. In August 2024, Momika, along with one of his co-protesters Salwan Najem, was charged with "agitation against an ethnic group" at four events in the summer of 2023. As per the charge sheet, both Momika and Najem desecrated the Quran by burning it and making derogatory remarks about Islam. One of the instances was outside a Stockholm mosque. The duo's protest led to strained relations between Sweden and several Middle Eastern countries. Reports at the time suggested that, in line with free speech protections, Momika was granted permission to protest by the Swedish police following a court order. However, later, noting that the man had burnt pages from the Islamic holy book very close to the mosque, Swedish authorities said they had opened an investigation into "agitation against an ethnic group". (With inputs from agencies)

Man who burnt Quran in 2023 sparking huge protests shot dead in Sweden

Two men in Sweden are set to face trial for allegedly setting fire to a Quran in 2023, a move that ignited widespread outrage across the Muslim world and heightened concerns about potential retaliatory attacks in the country, prosecutors announced on Wednesday (August 28).

The Quran, regarded by Muslims as the literal word of God, holds profound significance, and any act of desecration is considered a serious offence within the Islamic community. The incident sparked global condemnation, especially in West Asia.&nbsp;

While Sweden is known for its liberal values and strong commitment to freedom of speech, critics argue that the country should treat Quran burnings as protected expression under its laws.&nbsp;

However, Swedish prosecutors have taken a different stance, charging the two men with "offences of agitation against an ethnic or national group."

Senior Prosecutor Anna Hankkio stated that the men are accused of deliberately making statements and treating the Quran in a manner intended to show contempt for Muslims due to their faith. The alleged offenses occurred on four separate occasions, including incidents outside a mosque and in other public locations, according to the Swedish Prosecution Authority.

One of the accused men has declined to comment on the charges, while the other, speaking through his lawyer Mark Safaryan to Reuters, denied any wrongdoing. The second accused person's lawyer said that his client's actions were covered by the permit granted for the demonstration and that his rights are protected under the Swedish constitution.

The Swedish government has condemned the Quran burnings but is also striving to balance this with the country's constitutionally guaranteed freedom of speech and assembly. The controversy has strained Sweden's relations with several nations in West Asia.&nbsp;

In July 2023, protests in Iraq escalated when demonstrators stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad twice, setting fires within the compound during the second incident. By August, Sweden's intelligence service, Sapo, raised the national threat level, citing the Quran burnings as having made the country a "prioritised target" for potential terror attacks.

Two men in Sweden are set to face trial for allegedly setting fire to a Quran in 2023, a move that ignited widespread outrage across the Muslim world and heightened concerns about potential retaliatory attacks in the country, prosecutors announced on Wednesday (August 28).

Two men in Sweden are set to face trial for allegedly setting fire to a Quran in 2023, a move that ignited widespread outrage across the Muslim world and heightened concerns about potential retaliatory attacks in the country, prosecutors announced on Wednesday (August 28). The Quran, regarded by Muslims as the literal word of God, holds profound significance, and any act of desecration is considered a serious offence within the Islamic community. The incident sparked global condemnation, especially in West Asia. While Sweden is known for its liberal values and strong commitment to freedom of speech, critics argue that the country should treat Quran burnings as protected expression under its laws. However, Swedish prosecutors have taken a different stance, charging the two men with "offences of agitation against an ethnic or national group." Senior Prosecutor Anna Hankkio stated that the men are accused of deliberately making statements and treating the Quran in a manner intended to show contempt for Muslims due to their faith. The alleged offenses occurred on four separate occasions, including incidents outside a mosque and in other public locations, according to the Swedish Prosecution Authority. One of the accused men has declined to comment on the charges, while the other, speaking through his lawyer Mark Safaryan to Reuters, denied any wrongdoing. The second accused person's lawyer said that his client's actions were covered by the permit granted for the demonstration and that his rights are protected under the Swedish constitution. The Swedish government has condemned the Quran burnings but is also striving to balance this with the country's constitutionally guaranteed freedom of speech and assembly. The controversy has strained Sweden's relations with several nations in West Asia. In July 2023, protests in Iraq escalated when demonstrators stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad twice, setting fires within the compound during the second incident. By August, Sweden's intelligence service, Sapo, raised the national threat level, citing the Quran burnings as having made the country a "prioritised target" for potential terror attacks.

Sweden to put two men on trial for alleged burning of Quran

Police arrested at least 25 people in Pakistan's Punjab province after reports of an angry mob torturing a person from the minority Christian community surfaced.

As per Geo News, the man was tortured by the mob over the alleged desecration of Islam's holy book, the Quran.

The situation turned violent when the mob set ablaze the man's house situated in the Mujahid Colony residential area of Sargodha, damaged his belongings. The mob also set a shoe factory established within the building on fire.

The angry men also torched tyres and damaged the electricity installations in the area.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Violence erupts in Sargodha after a Christian man is accused of burning the Quran. The mob lynched him &amp; burned Christian homes. 
 
Lynching &amp; burning in the name of Islam have become part of our culture &amp; the state's inability to counter it makes it complicit. <a href="https://t.co/H76aH6LFU1">pic.twitter.com/H76aH6LFU1</a>
— Mona Farooq Ahmad (@MonaChaudhryy) <a href="https://twitter.com/MonaChaudhryy/status/1794338310590280179?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Police, upon receiving the information, rescued the man and his father and shifted them to an undisclosed location.

The police officials said that they had to resort to tear gas shelling to disperse the mob and apprehended at least 25 people who were allegedly involved in the riots.&nbsp;

“When police arrived, the mob had gathered outside the houses. Officers cordoned off the area and safely evacuated all residents,” the Dawn quoted Sargodha District Police Officer (DPO) Asad Ejaz Malhi as saying.

The police said that the situation was brought under control.

“The police peacefully dispersed the crowd,” he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/heatwave-in-pakistan-jacobabad-residents-grapple-with-frequent-power-cuts-725222">Heatwave in Pakistan: Jacobabad sizzles at 50°C, faces frequent power cuts</a>

<h2>'Probe initiated into the matter'</h2>

RPO Siddiqui, according to Geo News, said that the probe into the incident was initiated by the police and that legal action would be taken against the ones found guilty of committing blasphemy.

Sargodha Division Commissioner Muhammad Ajmal Bhatti vowed justice and ensured that a transparent inquiry would be held into the matter.

He also confirmed that no one was killed in the incident.

“Only one person sustained injuries in the incident,” the commissioner said, adding that the individual was at present in a stable condition and would be discharged from the hospital very soon.

Several videos of the incident surfaced on social media, after which Minority Rights March released a statement saying that the footage showed how a 70-year-old man was attacked by the mob “on the instigation of a local cleric” while his home and factory were being burned down.

“The videos of the attack clearly show officers of the Punjab police being present on the site as silent spectators which points towards their tacit approval and facilitation of the terrorists involved in the attack,” the statement said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Police arrested at least 25 people in Pakistan's Punjab province after reports of an angry mob torturing a person from the minority Christian community surfaced.

Police arrested at least 25 people in Pakistan's Punjab province after reports of an angry mob torturing a person from the minority Christian community surfaced. As per Geo News, the man was tortured by the mob over the alleged desecration of Islam's holy book, the Quran. The situation turned violent when the mob set ablaze the man's house situated in the Mujahid Colony residential area of Sargodha, damaged his belongings. The mob also set a shoe factory established within the building on fire. The angry men also torched tyres and damaged the electricity installations in the area. Violence erupts in Sargodha after a Christian man is accused of burning the Quran. The mob lynched him & burned Christian homes. Lynching & burning in the name of Islam have become part of our culture & the state's inability to counter it makes it complicit. pic.twitter.com/H76aH6LFU1 — Mona Farooq Ahmad (@MonaChaudhryy) May 25, 2024 × Police, upon receiving the information, rescued the man and his father and shifted them to an undisclosed location. The police officials said that they had to resort to tear gas shelling to disperse the mob and apprehended at least 25 people who were allegedly involved in the riots. “When police arrived, the mob had gathered outside the houses. Officers cordoned off the area and safely evacuated all residents,” the Dawn quoted Sargodha District Police Officer (DPO) Asad Ejaz Malhi as saying. The police said that the situation was brought under control. “The police peacefully dispersed the crowd,” he added. Also read: Heatwave in Pakistan: Jacobabad sizzles at 50°C, faces frequent power cuts 'Probe initiated into the matter' RPO Siddiqui, according to Geo News, said that the probe into the incident was initiated by the police and that legal action would be taken against the ones found guilty of committing blasphemy. Sargodha Division Commissioner Muhammad Ajmal Bhatti vowed justice and ensured that a transparent inquiry would be held into the matter. He also confirmed that no one was killed in the incident. “Only one person sustained injuries in the incident,” the commissioner said, adding that the individual was at present in a stable condition and would be discharged from the hospital very soon. Several videos of the incident surfaced on social media, after which Minority Rights March released a statement saying that the footage showed how a 70-year-old man was attacked by the mob “on the instigation of a local cleric” while his home and factory were being burned down. “The videos of the attack clearly show officers of the Punjab police being present on the site as silent spectators which points towards their tacit approval and facilitation of the terrorists involved in the attack,” the statement said. (With inputs from agencies)

Angry mob in Pakistan burns down Christian man’s house over alleged blasphemy

The Danish parliament on Thursday (Dec 7) passed a bill that makes it illegal for an individual or group to burn copies of the Koran in public places. The passing of the legislation comes after the Scandinavian nation received extreme backlash from the Muslim world over the desecration of&nbsp;Quran - Islam's holy book.&nbsp;

The law, criminalising the "inappropriate treatment" of religious texts was passed with&nbsp;94 votes in favour and 77 opposed in the 179-seat Folketing. Those who are found breaking the law will risk a fine or imprisonment of&nbsp;up to two years.

Copenhagen moved towards issuing the ban after the&nbsp;Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in July called on its members to take appropriate action against countries where the Quran was being desecrated.

WATCH | Unrest in Sweden over Quran burning during Easter weekend

<iframe allow="accelerometer; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" data-gtm-yt-inspected-7="true" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="lazy" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unrest-in-sweden-over-quran-burning-during-easter-weekend-471760/embed?autoplay=0" title="live tv" width="100%"></iframe>

<h2>History will judge us: Opposition</h2>

The ruling centrist coalition government has argued that the new legislation will have a marginal impact on free speech as criticising religion in other ways, remains legal.

The decision did not go down well with the free-speech absolutists of Denmark.&nbsp;Inger Stojberg, leader of the anti-immigration&nbsp;Denmark&nbsp;Democrats party, who opposed the ban said the bill&nbsp;undermines the hard-fought liberal freedoms in the region.

"History will judge us harshly for this, and with good reason... What it all comes down to is whether a restriction on freedom of speech is determined by us, or whether it is dictated from the outside," said&nbsp;Stojberg.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-nato-bid-in-jeopardy-after-allowing-quran-burning-as-ankara-seethes-609948">Also read |&nbsp;Sweden’s NATO bid in jeopardy after allowing Quran burning as Ankara seethes</a>

Both Denmark and its neighbouring country Sweden have been the hotspots of Quran burning in recent months. According to police figures, between July 21 and October 24 this year, 483 book burnings or flag burnings were recorded in Denmark alone.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in Sweden, the police and the courts granted permission to burn the Quran leading to numerous protests where the holy book was not only descerated but mocked by the protesters.&nbsp;

However, after receiving strong response from the Muslim world,&nbsp;Sweden is also examining ways to legally limit Quran desecrations and reduce tensions. Earlier this year, Stockholm was forced to heighten its terror alert level to grade four on a scale of five after the Quran burnings made the country a “prioritised target,”, according to the security services.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Danish parliament on Thursday (Dec 7) passed a bill that makes it illegal for an individual or group to burn copies of the Koran in public places. The passing of the legislation comes after the Scandinavian nation received extreme backlash from the Muslim world over the desecration of Quran - Islam's holy book.

The Danish parliament on Thursday (Dec 7) passed a bill that makes it illegal for an individual or group to burn copies of the Koran in public places. The passing of the legislation comes after the Scandinavian nation received extreme backlash from the Muslim world over the desecration of Quran - Islam's holy book. The law, criminalising the "inappropriate treatment" of religious texts was passed with 94 votes in favour and 77 opposed in the 179-seat Folketing. Those who are found breaking the law will risk a fine or imprisonment of up to two years. Copenhagen moved towards issuing the ban after the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in July called on its members to take appropriate action against countries where the Quran was being desecrated. WATCH | Unrest in Sweden over Quran burning during Easter weekend History will judge us: Opposition The ruling centrist coalition government has argued that the new legislation will have a marginal impact on free speech as criticising religion in other ways, remains legal. The decision did not go down well with the free-speech absolutists of Denmark. Inger Stojberg, leader of the anti-immigration Denmark Democrats party, who opposed the ban said the bill undermines the hard-fought liberal freedoms in the region. "History will judge us harshly for this, and with good reason... What it all comes down to is whether a restriction on freedom of speech is determined by us, or whether it is dictated from the outside," said Stojberg. Also read | Sweden’s NATO bid in jeopardy after allowing Quran burning as Ankara seethes Both Denmark and its neighbouring country Sweden have been the hotspots of Quran burning in recent months. According to police figures, between July 21 and October 24 this year, 483 book burnings or flag burnings were recorded in Denmark alone. Meanwhile, in Sweden, the police and the courts granted permission to burn the Quran leading to numerous protests where the holy book was not only descerated but mocked by the protesters. However, after receiving strong response from the Muslim world, Sweden is also examining ways to legally limit Quran desecrations and reduce tensions. Earlier this year, Stockholm was forced to heighten its terror alert level to grade four on a scale of five after the Quran burnings made the country a “prioritised target,”, according to the security services. (With inputs from agencies)

Danish parliament passes bill banning Quran burnings, angering free speech absolutists

A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium.

The assault took place on Monday (Oct 16) on Boulevard d'Ypres, 5 kilometres (3 miles) from the stadium.

The attacker was identified by local media as 45-year-old Abdesalem Lassoued, of Tunisian origin.&nbsp;He was said to be carrying a&nbsp;Kalashnikov-style assault rifle when he saw a group of football fans heading to see the Euro 2024 qualifier.

Following 12 hours of manhunt, the terrorist was caught and shot during a stop-and-search in a cafe as authorities searched Belgium’s capital.

Interior minister Annelies Verlinden said the terrorist died on the way to hospital in an ambulance.

<h2>Sought revenge for Quran burnings&nbsp;</h2>

“The perpetrator of the terrorist attack in Brussels has been identified and died," Verlinden posted on X, hours after Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called Monday's shooting a brutal "terrorist attack".

The shooting comes in the backdrop of rising tensions over the Quran burning protests in Sweden that widened the rift between the Arab nations and the European country.

Several countries had objected to the protests and terrorists had even threatened to eliminate Swedes at home and abroad.

“The perpetrator targeted specifically Swedish supporters who were in Brussels to attend a Red Devils soccer match. Two Swedish compatriots passed away. A third person is recovering from severe injures," PM de Croo said.

<h2>Attacker celebrated killings&nbsp;</h2>

Shortly after the attack, the gunman uploaded a video of himself on Facebook boasting about the murders.

In the video, the attacker used the name 'Slayem Slouma' and said in Arabic that he sought to avenge the killing of a six-year-old US-Palestinian boy.

The six-year-old boy, Wadea Al-Fayoume, was knifed to death in Plainfield, Illinois, on Saturday morning.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brussels-shooting-suspected-shooter-arrested-after-attack-647865">Brussels shooting: Suspected attacker shot dead by police after chase</a>

His mother, Hanaan Shahin, was also stabbed over a dozen times, by a man allegedly screaming 'You Muslims must die!'

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belgium-two-killed-in-shooting-incident-in-brussels-suspect-on-run-647715">ISIS terrorist kills 2 in Brussels to 'avenge' murder of 6-year-old Illinois boy</a>

Celebrating the assault, he said, "Islamic greeting Allahu Akbar. My name is Abdesalem Al Guilani and I am a fighter for Allah. I am from the Islamic State. We love who loves us and we hate who hates us. We live for our religion and we die for our religion.”

He further said that he has “killed three Swedes so far” and also claimed he had carried out the attack in “revenge in the name of Muslims”.

Notably, the third victim survived and is said to be undergoing treatment&nbsp;at a hospital.

<h2>Who is Abdesalem Lassoued?</h2>

Abdesalem Lassoued is a 45-year-old man from Tunisia.&nbsp;He was reportedly a failed asylum seeker and was living illegally in the Schaerbeek area, which is about a ten-minute drive from the shooting site.

Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborn said Lassoued was convicted in Tunisia ‘for common law offences’, but was not reported for a terrorist risk.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium.

A sense of terror and concern gripped Brussels city of Belgium after a gunman claiming to be a member of ISIS went on a rampage and killed two Swedish nationals who were on their way to watch a match at King Baudouin Stadium, where Sweden were playing Belgium. The assault took place on Monday (Oct 16) on Boulevard d'Ypres, 5 kilometres (3 miles) from the stadium. The attacker was identified by local media as 45-year-old Abdesalem Lassoued, of Tunisian origin. He was said to be carrying a Kalashnikov-style assault rifle when he saw a group of football fans heading to see the Euro 2024 qualifier. Following 12 hours of manhunt, the terrorist was caught and shot during a stop-and-search in a cafe as authorities searched Belgium’s capital. Interior minister Annelies Verlinden said the terrorist died on the way to hospital in an ambulance. Sought revenge for Quran burnings “The perpetrator of the terrorist attack in Brussels has been identified and died," Verlinden posted on X, hours after Prime Minister Alexander De Croo called Monday's shooting a brutal "terrorist attack". The shooting comes in the backdrop of rising tensions over the Quran burning protests in Sweden that widened the rift between the Arab nations and the European country. Several countries had objected to the protests and terrorists had even threatened to eliminate Swedes at home and abroad. “The perpetrator targeted specifically Swedish supporters who were in Brussels to attend a Red Devils soccer match. Two Swedish compatriots passed away. A third person is recovering from severe injures," PM de Croo said. Attacker celebrated killings Shortly after the attack, the gunman uploaded a video of himself on Facebook boasting about the murders. In the video, the attacker used the name 'Slayem Slouma' and said in Arabic that he sought to avenge the killing of a six-year-old US-Palestinian boy. The six-year-old boy, Wadea Al-Fayoume, was knifed to death in Plainfield, Illinois, on Saturday morning. Also read | Brussels shooting: Suspected attacker shot dead by police after chase His mother, Hanaan Shahin, was also stabbed over a dozen times, by a man allegedly screaming 'You Muslims must die!' Also read | ISIS terrorist kills 2 in Brussels to 'avenge' murder of 6-year-old Illinois boy Celebrating the assault, he said, "Islamic greeting Allahu Akbar. My name is Abdesalem Al Guilani and I am a fighter for Allah. I am from the Islamic State. We love who loves us and we hate who hates us. We live for our religion and we die for our religion.” He further said that he has “killed three Swedes so far” and also claimed he had carried out the attack in “revenge in the name of Muslims”. Notably, the third victim survived and is said to be undergoing treatment at a hospital. Who is Abdesalem Lassoued? Abdesalem Lassoued is a 45-year-old man from Tunisia. He was reportedly a failed asylum seeker and was living illegally in the Schaerbeek area, which is about a ten-minute drive from the shooting site. Justice Minister Vincent Van Quickenborn said Lassoued was convicted in Tunisia ‘for common law offences’, but was not reported for a terrorist risk. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Abdesalem Lassoued? Man who shot dead 2 Swedes over Quran burnings, US Muslim boy's killing

A copy of the Holy Quran from nearly 1400 years ago has been restored and displayed by the National Archives of Egypt, experts say the copy is as old as Islam.

7th century copy of Quran restored in Egypt

On Friday, the Danish government unveiled a draft that might outlaw public Quran burning. The action sends a "important political signal" to the rest of the globe, according to Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen on Danish radio.

Denmark proposes bill that could see ban on Quran burnings

A demonstration in the Netherlands took a dark turn, when on Friday (August 18th), a Dutch far-right activist desecrated a copy of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, during a demonstration outside the Turkish embassy in The Hague.

The action infuriated dozens of counter-protesters and led to a stone pelting incident directed at the demonstrator who ripped up the holy book, and stomped on it.

<h2>Who did it?</h2>

As per a report by news agency AFP, their correspondents witnessed Edwin Wagensveld, leader of the Dutch branch of far-right group Pegida, damage a copy of the Quran.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Edwin Wagensveld van Pegida Nederland heeft vanavond een Koran verscheurd voor de ambassade van Turkije in Den Haag. Turkije probeert de Vrijheid van Meningsuiting in Nederland te beperken naar aanleiding van het eerder verscheuren van de Koran door Edwin Wagensveld. <a href="https://t.co/oJE7ozWEUV">pic.twitter.com/oJE7ozWEUV</a>
— Bob van Keulen (@BobHGL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BobHGL/status/1692614212386705536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The street where the Turkey embassy is located was sealed off by the police.&nbsp;Around 50 counter-protestors were also present at the scene, reportedly some of them began throwing stones at the far-right demonstrator when he tore out pages from the holy book of Islam.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-christian-brothers-arrested-for-blasphemy-that-led-to-riots-in-pakistans-jaranwala-626838">Two Christian brothers arrested for blasphemy that led to riots in Pakistan’s Jaranwala</a>

Some even tried to chase after Wagensveld as he left the scene&nbsp;but police equipped with shields and batons intervened to stop them.

<h2>‘Pathetic but legal’</h2>

Condemning the act, on Friday morning, the Netherlands' Turkish-born justice minister, described the plan to destroy the holy book as "fairly primitive and pathetic," but said that the nation's laws authorise such a demonstration.

AFP reports that Geert Wilders, the leader of the PVV, another far-right party in Netherlands, posted a message online supporting Friday's demonstration by Pegida.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/denmark-to-put-legal-limits-on-protests-involving-quran-burnings-620850">Denmark to put legal limits on protests involving Quran burnings</a>

During the demonstration, Pegida leader Edwin Wagensveld was seen wearing a shirt that likened the Islamic holy book Quran to Adolf Hitler's 'Mein Kampf'. Previously, in January, he had made remarks of this nature during a similar demonstration, and now faces trials for the comments.

<h2>Quran desecration incidents on rise</h2>

Recently, there have been other, similar attacks of the Quran in many European nations.&nbsp;

In late July of this year, two men had set fire to the holy book of Islam outside the Swedish parliament.&nbsp;

Similar incidents have also been reported in Denmark. Also in July, a small group of demonstrators in Denmark had set ablaze a copy of the holy book Quran in front of the Iraqi embassy in Copenhagen. Following this, the nation's government had announced that it was contemplating enacting legal limitations to stop demonstrations that involved the burning of the holy book.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A demonstration in the Netherlands took a dark turn, when on Friday (August 18th), a Dutch far-right activist desecrated a copy of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, during a demonstration outside the Turkish embassy in The Hague.

A demonstration in the Netherlands took a dark turn, when on Friday (August 18th), a Dutch far-right activist desecrated a copy of the Quran, the holy book of Islam, during a demonstration outside the Turkish embassy in The Hague. The action infuriated dozens of counter-protesters and led to a stone pelting incident directed at the demonstrator who ripped up the holy book, and stomped on it. Who did it? As per a report by news agency AFP, their correspondents witnessed Edwin Wagensveld, leader of the Dutch branch of far-right group Pegida, damage a copy of the Quran. Edwin Wagensveld van Pegida Nederland heeft vanavond een Koran verscheurd voor de ambassade van Turkije in Den Haag. Turkije probeert de Vrijheid van Meningsuiting in Nederland te beperken naar aanleiding van het eerder verscheuren van de Koran door Edwin Wagensveld. pic.twitter.com/oJE7ozWEUV — Bob van Keulen (@BobHGL) August 18, 2023 × The street where the Turkey embassy is located was sealed off by the police. Around 50 counter-protestors were also present at the scene, reportedly some of them began throwing stones at the far-right demonstrator when he tore out pages from the holy book of Islam. Also read | Two Christian brothers arrested for blasphemy that led to riots in Pakistan’s Jaranwala Some even tried to chase after Wagensveld as he left the scene but police equipped with shields and batons intervened to stop them. ‘Pathetic but legal’ Condemning the act, on Friday morning, the Netherlands' Turkish-born justice minister, described the plan to destroy the holy book as "fairly primitive and pathetic," but said that the nation's laws authorise such a demonstration. AFP reports that Geert Wilders, the leader of the PVV, another far-right party in Netherlands, posted a message online supporting Friday's demonstration by Pegida. Also read | Denmark to put legal limits on protests involving Quran burnings During the demonstration, Pegida leader Edwin Wagensveld was seen wearing a shirt that likened the Islamic holy book Quran to Adolf Hitler's 'Mein Kampf'. Previously, in January, he had made remarks of this nature during a similar demonstration, and now faces trials for the comments. Quran desecration incidents on rise Recently, there have been other, similar attacks of the Quran in many European nations. In late July of this year, two men had set fire to the holy book of Islam outside the Swedish parliament. Similar incidents have also been reported in Denmark. Also in July, a small group of demonstrators in Denmark had set ablaze a copy of the holy book Quran in front of the Iraqi embassy in Copenhagen. Following this, the nation's government had announced that it was contemplating enacting legal limitations to stop demonstrations that involved the burning of the holy book. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Netherlands: Dutch far-right activist Edwin Wagensveld tears up, stomps on Quran during protest

Stockholm's foreign minister and a diplomatic source released a statement on Thursday saying that an attacker threw a Molotov cocktail at Sweden's embassy in Beirut following recent incidents involving burnings and desecrations of Islam's holy book Quran.

"We confirm that there was a Molotov cocktail thrown at the facade of our embassy last evening, which did not explode," a diplomatic source at the embassy said, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to talk to the media.

The "perpetrator managed to run away", the source added.

Tensions have escalated between Sweden and Muslim countries after several protests involving public desecration of the Quran were reported in the Swedish capital Stockholm.

Lebanon witnessed demonstrations at mosques, while the chief of the pro-Iran Shiite Muslim group Hezbollah called for the Swedish ambassador to be removed from his position.

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said&nbsp;"it was sheer luck that no one was injured" in Wednesday's attack and that staff were safe.

"The incident is currently being investigated," he said in a statement on Thursday, noting that "Lebanese authorities have an obligation under the Vienna Convention to protect diplomatic missions".

Late last month, two Iraqi men had set a copy of the Quran alight outside the Swedish parliament in Stockholm.

Salwan Momika and Sakwan Najem allegedly kicked and stomped on the holy book, then proceeded to set its pages on fire before slamming it shut, just like in a protest outside Stockholm's main mosque in late June. It had sparked outrage and condemnations across West Asia.

The same duo was also involved in a protest outside Iraq's embassy in Stockholm on July 20. On that day, they stomped on the holy book but did not burn it.

<h2>Turkey urges Sweden to take steps</h2>

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, last month, urged Sweden to take substantial steps to stop incidents related to the burning of the Quran, as per a Turkish foreign ministry source.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-happening-in-maui-how-has-the-situation-gotten-so-worse-624358">Explained | What's behind Maui wildfires? How has the situation gotten so worse?</a>

In a phone call, Fidan told his Swedish counterpart Tobias Billstrom that the continuation of such "vile actions" under the garb of freedom of expression was 'unacceptable', the source said.

<h2>Denmark to put legal limits on protests involving Quran burnings</h2>

Denmark's government late last month said it would put legal limitations in order to stop the demonstrations involving the burning of Islam's holy book Quran in certain circumstances, citing security concerns.

"The burnings are deeply offensive and reckless acts committed by few individuals. These few individuals do not represent the values the Danish society is built on," Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said separately in a statement.

"The Danish government will therefore explore the possibility of intervening in special situations where, for instance, other countries, cultures, and religions are being insulted, and where this could have significant negative consequences for Denmark, not least with regard to security," he said.

"This must of course be done within the framework of the constitutionally protected freedom of expression and in a manner that does not change the fact that freedom of expression in Denmark has a very broad scope," the Danish foreign ministry said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Stockholm's foreign minister and a diplomatic source released a statement on Thursday saying that an attacker threw a Molotov cocktail at Sweden's embassy in Beirut following recent incidents involving burnings and desecrations of Islam's holy book Quran.

Stockholm's foreign minister and a diplomatic source released a statement on Thursday saying that an attacker threw a Molotov cocktail at Sweden's embassy in Beirut following recent incidents involving burnings and desecrations of Islam's holy book Quran. "We confirm that there was a Molotov cocktail thrown at the facade of our embassy last evening, which did not explode," a diplomatic source at the embassy said, requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to talk to the media. The "perpetrator managed to run away", the source added. Tensions have escalated between Sweden and Muslim countries after several protests involving public desecration of the Quran were reported in the Swedish capital Stockholm. Lebanon witnessed demonstrations at mosques, while the chief of the pro-Iran Shiite Muslim group Hezbollah called for the Swedish ambassador to be removed from his position. Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said "it was sheer luck that no one was injured" in Wednesday's attack and that staff were safe. "The incident is currently being investigated," he said in a statement on Thursday, noting that "Lebanese authorities have an obligation under the Vienna Convention to protect diplomatic missions". Late last month, two Iraqi men had set a copy of the Quran alight outside the Swedish parliament in Stockholm. Salwan Momika and Sakwan Najem allegedly kicked and stomped on the holy book, then proceeded to set its pages on fire before slamming it shut, just like in a protest outside Stockholm's main mosque in late June. It had sparked outrage and condemnations across West Asia. The same duo was also involved in a protest outside Iraq's embassy in Stockholm on July 20. On that day, they stomped on the holy book but did not burn it. Turkey urges Sweden to take steps Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, last month, urged Sweden to take substantial steps to stop incidents related to the burning of the Quran, as per a Turkish foreign ministry source. Also read: Explained | What's behind Maui wildfires? How has the situation gotten so worse? In a phone call, Fidan told his Swedish counterpart Tobias Billstrom that the continuation of such "vile actions" under the garb of freedom of expression was 'unacceptable', the source said. Denmark to put legal limits on protests involving Quran burnings Denmark's government late last month said it would put legal limitations in order to stop the demonstrations involving the burning of Islam's holy book Quran in certain circumstances, citing security concerns. "The burnings are deeply offensive and reckless acts committed by few individuals. These few individuals do not represent the values the Danish society is built on," Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said separately in a statement. "The Danish government will therefore explore the possibility of intervening in special situations where, for instance, other countries, cultures, and religions are being insulted, and where this could have significant negative consequences for Denmark, not least with regard to security," he said. "This must of course be done within the framework of the constitutionally protected freedom of expression and in a manner that does not change the fact that freedom of expression in Denmark has a very broad scope," the Danish foreign ministry said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden's embassy in Lebanon attacked amid anger over Quran burning incidents

Islamic holy book is in crisis. Quran is being burnt in Sweden and Denmark. This sparked outrage across the world. But who is burning the Quran and why?

Why are Sweden and Denmark having a crisis over the Quran?

A Quran was set alight by two men outside Swedish Parliament in Stockholm on Monday (July 31), reported AFP. The incident reportedly took&nbsp;place at a protest similar to previous ones that stoked tensions between Sweden and the Islamic world.

Salwan Momika and Sakwan Najem allegedly kicked and stomped on the holy book, then proceeded to set its pages on fore before slamming it shut, just like in a protest outside Stockholm's main mosque in late June. It had sparked outrage and condemnations across West Asia.

The same duo was also involved in protest outside Iraq's embassy in Stockholm on July 20. On that day, they stomped on the holy book but did not burn it.

Gravitas: Denmark considers banning protests burning Quran

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-denmark-considers-banning-protests-burning-quran-621182/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I will burn it many times until you ban it," organiser Salwan Najem told Expressen newspaper.

At one of the earlier protests, Momika and Najem were the only participants. At the time, a small group of counter-protesters had gathered outside the police cordon, as reported by AFP.

Mats Eriksson, a spokesman for the Stockholm police told AFP that the recent protest &nbsp;"had been conducted without any serious public order disturbances".

During the protest, Momika also stomped on a picture of Shiite Muslim cleric and political leader Moqtada Sadr -- whose followers had stormed Sweden's embassy in Baghdad in response to previous desecrations. They had started fires within the compound the night before the July protest.

"We saw him standing there again and yelling stuff about the Koran and about Islam, playing with the Koran, and honestly it's all for attention and it's pretty obvious," Tamazight El Yaakoubi, an 18-year-old law student from the Netherlands, told AFP.

"Before we came here we were pretty scared, we were like, 'Koran burned down, why?'" added the Muslim visitor.

"But when we came here almost everyone is full of love and everyone is very respectful."

Sweden's relations with the Islamic countries have come under strain due to previous Quran burning protests. The police in Sweden have previously stressed that permits are granted to people only to hold public gatherings and not for the activities conducted during the events.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A Quran was set alight by two men outside Swedish Parliament in Stockholm on Monday (July 31), reported AFP. The incident reportedly took place at a protest similar to previous ones that stoked tensions between Sweden and the Islamic world.

A Quran was set alight by two men outside Swedish Parliament in Stockholm on Monday (July 31), reported AFP. The incident reportedly took place at a protest similar to previous ones that stoked tensions between Sweden and the Islamic world. Salwan Momika and Sakwan Najem allegedly kicked and stomped on the holy book, then proceeded to set its pages on fore before slamming it shut, just like in a protest outside Stockholm's main mosque in late June. It had sparked outrage and condemnations across West Asia. The same duo was also involved in protest outside Iraq's embassy in Stockholm on July 20. On that day, they stomped on the holy book but did not burn it. Gravitas: Denmark considers banning protests burning Quran × "I will burn it many times until you ban it," organiser Salwan Najem told Expressen newspaper. At one of the earlier protests, Momika and Najem were the only participants. At the time, a small group of counter-protesters had gathered outside the police cordon, as reported by AFP. Mats Eriksson, a spokesman for the Stockholm police told AFP that the recent protest "had been conducted without any serious public order disturbances". During the protest, Momika also stomped on a picture of Shiite Muslim cleric and political leader Moqtada Sadr -- whose followers had stormed Sweden's embassy in Baghdad in response to previous desecrations. They had started fires within the compound the night before the July protest. "We saw him standing there again and yelling stuff about the Koran and about Islam, playing with the Koran, and honestly it's all for attention and it's pretty obvious," Tamazight El Yaakoubi, an 18-year-old law student from the Netherlands, told AFP. "Before we came here we were pretty scared, we were like, 'Koran burned down, why?'" added the Muslim visitor. "But when we came here almost everyone is full of love and everyone is very respectful." Sweden's relations with the Islamic countries have come under strain due to previous Quran burning protests. The police in Sweden have previously stressed that permits are granted to people only to hold public gatherings and not for the activities conducted during the events. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Fresh incident of Quran burning outside Swedish Parliament: Report

Denmark is considering banning protests burning the Quran and other religious texts. The Swedish prime minister says similar process is underway. Is this too little, too late? Will other countries follow suit?

Gravitas: Denmark considers banning protests burning Quran

The Danish government says it will seek to find a legal tool that would enable authorities to prevent the burning of copies of the Quran in front of other countries' embassies in Denmark.

Denmark considers banning protests involving Quran burning

Denmark's government on Sunday said it would put legal limitations in order to stop the demonstrations involving the burning of the Islam's holy book Quran in certain circumstances, citing security concerns.

This move came after global condemnation over protests involving burnings and desecrations of the Quran in Denmark and Sweden.&nbsp;

"The burnings are deeply offensive and reckless acts committed by few individuals. These few individuals do not represent the values the Danish society is built on," Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said separately in a statement.

"The Danish government will therefore explore the possibility of intervening in special situations where, for instance, other countries, cultures, and religions are being insulted, and where this could have significant negative consequences for Denmark, not least with regard to security," he said.

"This must of course be done within the framework of the constitutionally protected freedom of expression and in a manner that does not change the fact that freedom of expression in Denmark has a very broad scope," the Danish government said in a statement from the foreign ministry, further stressing it as one of the country's most important values.

Several incidents involving the desecration of the Quran have elevated diplomatic tensions throughout the Middle East with the two Nordic countries. &nbsp;

The Danish government noted that the protests have "reached a level where Denmark, in many parts of the world across continents, is being viewed as a country that facilitates insult and denigration of the cultures, religions, and traditions of other countries."

It added that the "primary purpose" of some of the actions had been to provoke and "could have significant consequences."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explosion-in-pakistan-claims-the-lives-of-at-least-43-620814">Deadly bomb blast in Pakistan kills at least 43, Pak PM calls it attack against country's democratic system</a>

<h2>Turkey urges Sweden to take steps</h2>

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Sunday urged Sweden to take substantial steps to stop incidents related to the burning of the Quran, as per a Turkish foreign ministry source.

In a phone call, Fidan told his Swedish counterpart Tobias Billstrom that the continuation of such "vile actions" under the garb of freedom of expression was 'unacceptable', the source said.

<h2>Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in close contact with Mette Frederiksen</h2>

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson released a statement saying that he was in close contact with his Danish counterpart Mette Frederiksen and that a similar process was already underway in Sweden.

"We have also started to analyse the legal situation already... in order to consider measures to strengthen our national security and the security of Swedes in Sweden and around the world," Kristersson said in a post to Instagram.

Earlier, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed deep concern over the potential consequences of further demonstrations related to the desecration of the Quran.

Kristersson acknowledged the growing anger among Muslims due to attacks on Islam's holy book in both Sweden and Denmark. The attacks have drawn global condemnation, especially from Muslim countries like Turkey, whose support is crucial for Sweden's goal of joining US-led NATO amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Denmark's government on Sunday said it would put legal limitations in order to stop the demonstrations involving the burning of the Islam's holy book Quran in certain circumstances, citing security concerns.

Denmark's government on Sunday said it would put legal limitations in order to stop the demonstrations involving the burning of the Islam's holy book Quran in certain circumstances, citing security concerns. This move came after global condemnation over protests involving burnings and desecrations of the Quran in Denmark and Sweden. "The burnings are deeply offensive and reckless acts committed by few individuals. These few individuals do not represent the values the Danish society is built on," Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said separately in a statement. "The Danish government will therefore explore the possibility of intervening in special situations where, for instance, other countries, cultures, and religions are being insulted, and where this could have significant negative consequences for Denmark, not least with regard to security," he said. "This must of course be done within the framework of the constitutionally protected freedom of expression and in a manner that does not change the fact that freedom of expression in Denmark has a very broad scope," the Danish government said in a statement from the foreign ministry, further stressing it as one of the country's most important values. Several incidents involving the desecration of the Quran have elevated diplomatic tensions throughout the Middle East with the two Nordic countries. The Danish government noted that the protests have "reached a level where Denmark, in many parts of the world across continents, is being viewed as a country that facilitates insult and denigration of the cultures, religions, and traditions of other countries." It added that the "primary purpose" of some of the actions had been to provoke and "could have significant consequences." Also read: Deadly bomb blast in Pakistan kills at least 43, Pak PM calls it attack against country's democratic system Turkey urges Sweden to take steps Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan on Sunday urged Sweden to take substantial steps to stop incidents related to the burning of the Quran, as per a Turkish foreign ministry source. In a phone call, Fidan told his Swedish counterpart Tobias Billstrom that the continuation of such "vile actions" under the garb of freedom of expression was 'unacceptable', the source said. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in close contact with Mette Frederiksen Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson released a statement saying that he was in close contact with his Danish counterpart Mette Frederiksen and that a similar process was already underway in Sweden. "We have also started to analyse the legal situation already... in order to consider measures to strengthen our national security and the security of Swedes in Sweden and around the world," Kristersson said in a post to Instagram. Earlier, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed deep concern over the potential consequences of further demonstrations related to the desecration of the Quran. Kristersson acknowledged the growing anger among Muslims due to attacks on Islam's holy book in both Sweden and Denmark. The attacks have drawn global condemnation, especially from Muslim countries like Turkey, whose support is crucial for Sweden's goal of joining US-led NATO amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Denmark to put legal limits on protests involving Quran burnings

A small group of demonstrators in Denmark set ablaze a copy of the holy book Quran in front of the Iraqi embassy in Copenhagen, further risking the diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The group that calls itself "Danish Patriots" also held a similar protest last week, live-streaming the events on Facebook.

Thousands of Iraqis protested in Baghdad on Saturday over the desecration of the Muslim holy book in Sweden and Denmark, in a gathering called by ruling Iraqi parties and armed groups.

<h2>Protesters storm Baghdad's Green Zone over desecration of Quran in Denmark</h2>

On Saturday, almost a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr,&nbsp;who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies.

The demonstration was arranged in response to an apparent desecration of the Muslim holy book.

Watch|&nbsp;Protestors storm Sweden's embassy in Central Baghdad

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/protestors-storm-swedens-embassy-in-central-baghdad-617680/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

On Friday, the extreme right group Danske Patrioter posted a video of a man burning what seemed to be a Quran on its Facebook page.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-convicted-of-disobeying-police-slapped-with-fine-618912">Greta Thunberg convicted of disobeying police, slapped with fine</a>

Copenhagen police deputy chief Trine Fisker told news agency AFP that "not more than a handful" of protesters had gathered Friday across from the Iraqi embassy.

"I can also confirm there was a book burnt. We do not know which book it was," she said. "It was quite peaceful."

In central Baghdad, the protesters gathered in the pre-dawn darkness at Tahrir Square.

"Yes, yes to the Quran!" shouted the protesters, mostly young men.&nbsp;

Some of them carried portraits of Sadr, who has a following of millions among the country's majority Shiite population and also exerts great influence over the country's politics.

Security forces cut two bridges leading to the high-security Green Zone where governmental institutions and foreign embassies are located.

The protesters made attempts to crash through before the security officials pushed them back after which they ultimately dispersed, an interior ministry official told news agency AFP.

As per the official, the demonstrators were making attempts to reach the embassy of Denmark.

<h2>Quran burners should be handed over for prosecution, says Khamenei&nbsp;</h2>

On Saturday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei released a statement saying that the persons behind desecrating the holy book Quran should face the "most severe punishment". He further demanded Sweden hand them over for prosecution in Islamic countries, Iran's state media reported.

"All Islamic scholars agree that those who desecrate the Koran deserved the most severe punishment... The duty of that (Swedish) government is to hand over the perpetrator to the judicial systems of Islamic countries," Khamenei said in a statement carried by state media.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A small group of demonstrators in Denmark set ablaze a copy of the holy book Quran in front of the Iraqi embassy in Copenhagen, further risking the diplomatic relations between the two countries.

A small group of demonstrators in Denmark set ablaze a copy of the holy book Quran in front of the Iraqi embassy in Copenhagen, further risking the diplomatic relations between the two countries. The group that calls itself "Danish Patriots" also held a similar protest last week, live-streaming the events on Facebook. Thousands of Iraqis protested in Baghdad on Saturday over the desecration of the Muslim holy book in Sweden and Denmark, in a gathering called by ruling Iraqi parties and armed groups. Protesters storm Baghdad's Green Zone over desecration of Quran in Denmark On Saturday, almost a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr, who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies. The demonstration was arranged in response to an apparent desecration of the Muslim holy book. Watch| Protestors storm Sweden's embassy in Central Baghdad On Friday, the extreme right group Danske Patrioter posted a video of a man burning what seemed to be a Quran on its Facebook page. Also read: Greta Thunberg convicted of disobeying police, slapped with fine Copenhagen police deputy chief Trine Fisker told news agency AFP that "not more than a handful" of protesters had gathered Friday across from the Iraqi embassy. "I can also confirm there was a book burnt. We do not know which book it was," she said. "It was quite peaceful." In central Baghdad, the protesters gathered in the pre-dawn darkness at Tahrir Square. "Yes, yes to the Quran!" shouted the protesters, mostly young men. Some of them carried portraits of Sadr, who has a following of millions among the country's majority Shiite population and also exerts great influence over the country's politics. Security forces cut two bridges leading to the high-security Green Zone where governmental institutions and foreign embassies are located. The protesters made attempts to crash through before the security officials pushed them back after which they ultimately dispersed, an interior ministry official told news agency AFP. As per the official, the demonstrators were making attempts to reach the embassy of Denmark. Quran burners should be handed over for prosecution, says Khamenei On Saturday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei released a statement saying that the persons behind desecrating the holy book Quran should face the "most severe punishment". He further demanded Sweden hand them over for prosecution in Islamic countries, Iran's state media reported. "All Islamic scholars agree that those who desecrate the Koran deserved the most severe punishment... The duty of that (Swedish) government is to hand over the perpetrator to the judicial systems of Islamic countries," Khamenei said in a statement carried by state media. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Demonstrators burn Quran in front of Iraqi embassy in Denmark

In the last 48 hours, Denmark has reported 3 incidents of Quran burning outside the Iraqi, Turkish & Egyptian embassies respectively. These incidents have split Europe. Is this freedom of expression or an act of hatred? Here's what Priyanka Sharma has to say.

Gravitas: Quran burning incidents split Europe.

Thousands of people took to the streets in a handful of Muslim-majority countries Friday to express their outrage at the desecration of a copy of the Quran in Sweden, a day after protesters stormed the country's embassy in Iraq.

Thousands of Muslims took to the streets to express outrage over Quran desecration in Sweden

Nearly a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr, on Saturday, who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies.

The demonstration was arranged in response to an apparent desecration of the Muslim holy book.

On Friday, the extreme right group Danske Patrioter posted a video of a man burning what seemed to be a Quran on its Facebook page.

Copenhagen police deputy chief Trine Fisker told news agency AFP that "not more than a handful" of protesters had gathered Friday across from the Iraqi embassy.

"I can also confirm there was a book burnt. We do not know which book it was," she said. "It was quite peaceful."

In central Baghdad, the protesters gathered in the pre-dawn darkness at Tahrir Square.

"Yes, yes to the Quran!" shouted the protesters, mostly young men.&nbsp;

Some of them carried portraits of Sadr, who has a following of millions among the country's majority Shiite population and also exerts great influence over the country's politics.

Security forces cut two bridges leading to the high-security Green Zone where governmental institutions and foreign embassies are located.

The protesters made attempts to crash through before the security officials pushed them back after which they ultimately dispersed, an interior ministry official told news agency AFP.

As per the official, the demonstrators were making attempts to reach the embassy of Denmark.

<h2>Quran burners should be handed over for prosecution, says Khamenei&nbsp;</h2>

On Saturday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei released a statement saying that the persons behind desecrating the holy book Quran, should face the "most severe punishment". He further demanded Sweden hand them over for prosecution in Islamic countries, Iran's state media reported.

"All Islamic scholars agree that those who desecrate the Koran deserved the most severe punishment... The duty of that (Swedish) government is to hand over the perpetrator to the judicial systems of Islamic countries," Khamenei said in a statement carried by state media.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-attempted-drone-attack-on-crimea-alleges-moscow-backed-authorities-618395">&nbsp;Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village</a>

<h2>Iraq's foreign ministry condemns desecration of the holy book</h2>

Early on Saturday, Iraq's foreign ministry had condemned "the desecration of the holy Quran and the Iraqi flag" in front of the embassy in Denmark.

The ministry released a statement saying that "these actions provoke reactions and put all the parties in delicate situations".

In a separate statement, the ministry said "we cannot allow to happen again" what occurred at the Swedish embassy.

It reaffirmed Baghdad's "full commitment" to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and said it guarantees "the protection and security provided to diplomatic teams".

<h2>Sweden's embassy set on fire by protesters in Baghdad</h2>

Sweden's embassy was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday (July 20), stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden.&nbsp;

According to an AFP correspondent, smoke was seen rising from the Swedish embassy building and many demonstrators were still present on the scene after the torching of the embassy as authorities deployed a large number of Iraqi riot police.

"We are mobilised today to denounce the burning of the Quran, which is all about love and faith," said protester Hassan Ahmed, while speaking to AFP. "We demand that the Swedish government and the Iraqi government stop this type of initiative," he added.&nbsp;

Then later on Thursday (July 20), Iraq cut diplomatic ties with Sweden and ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country.

Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Nearly a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr, on Saturday, who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies.

Nearly a thousand protesters took to the streets in Baghdad at the call of Muslim cleric Moqtada Sadr, on Saturday, who then attempted a demonstration by marching to Baghdad's Green Zone housing foreign embassies. The demonstration was arranged in response to an apparent desecration of the Muslim holy book. On Friday, the extreme right group Danske Patrioter posted a video of a man burning what seemed to be a Quran on its Facebook page. Copenhagen police deputy chief Trine Fisker told news agency AFP that "not more than a handful" of protesters had gathered Friday across from the Iraqi embassy. "I can also confirm there was a book burnt. We do not know which book it was," she said. "It was quite peaceful." In central Baghdad, the protesters gathered in the pre-dawn darkness at Tahrir Square. "Yes, yes to the Quran!" shouted the protesters, mostly young men. Some of them carried portraits of Sadr, who has a following of millions among the country's majority Shiite population and also exerts great influence over the country's politics. Security forces cut two bridges leading to the high-security Green Zone where governmental institutions and foreign embassies are located. The protesters made attempts to crash through before the security officials pushed them back after which they ultimately dispersed, an interior ministry official told news agency AFP. As per the official, the demonstrators were making attempts to reach the embassy of Denmark. Quran burners should be handed over for prosecution, says Khamenei On Saturday, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei released a statement saying that the persons behind desecrating the holy book Quran, should face the "most severe punishment". He further demanded Sweden hand them over for prosecution in Islamic countries, Iran's state media reported. "All Islamic scholars agree that those who desecrate the Koran deserved the most severe punishment... The duty of that (Swedish) government is to hand over the perpetrator to the judicial systems of Islamic countries," Khamenei said in a statement carried by state media. Also read: Ammunition depot in Crimea 'destroyed' in Ukraine drone attack, cluster munition fired in Russian village Iraq's foreign ministry condemns desecration of the holy book Early on Saturday, Iraq's foreign ministry had condemned "the desecration of the holy Quran and the Iraqi flag" in front of the embassy in Denmark. The ministry released a statement saying that "these actions provoke reactions and put all the parties in delicate situations". In a separate statement, the ministry said "we cannot allow to happen again" what occurred at the Swedish embassy. It reaffirmed Baghdad's "full commitment" to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and said it guarantees "the protection and security provided to diplomatic teams". Sweden's embassy set on fire by protesters in Baghdad Sweden's embassy was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday (July 20), stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden. According to an AFP correspondent, smoke was seen rising from the Swedish embassy building and many demonstrators were still present on the scene after the torching of the embassy as authorities deployed a large number of Iraqi riot police. "We are mobilised today to denounce the burning of the Quran, which is all about love and faith," said protester Hassan Ahmed, while speaking to AFP. "We demand that the Swedish government and the Iraqi government stop this type of initiative," he added. Then later on Thursday (July 20), Iraq cut diplomatic ties with Sweden and ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country. Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Protesters storm Baghdad's Green Zone over desecration of Quran in Denmark

Demonstrators in Iraq's capital, Baghdad have torched Sweden's embassy over an incident of burning of the Islamic holy book in Sweden. The protest was called by the supporters of Iran-backed prominent Shi'ite cleric Muktada Al-Sadar after reports surfaced that a demonstration is being planned in Sweden.

Protestors storm Sweden's embassy in Central Baghdad

Iraq on Thursday (July 20) cut diplomatic ties with Sweden in response to Swedish authorities allowing protesters to desecrate holy book Quran outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm.

The government ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country and called back its envoy from the capital Stockholm.

Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement.

<h2>Move prompted by Sweden's permission for burning Quran</h2>

It said that the decision was "prompted by the Swedish government's repeated permission for the burning of the holy Quran, insulting Islamic sanctities and the burning of the Iraqi flag".

Following the order, the Swedish Embassy said it has been closed to visitors.

Prime Minister Shia al-Sudani assured strict punishment to the arsonists, referring to "negligent security officials" for investigation.

The diplomatic blowback comes hours after a small group of protesters partially desecrated by stepping on a book they claimed was Quran. They left the area after one hour without setting it on fire, Reuters news agency news agency reported.

<h2>Quran burning: Countries summon Swedish ambassadors</h2>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://wionews.com/videos/quran-burning-countries-summon-swedish-ambassadors-turkey-yet-to-ratify-nato-membership-bid-611728/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Revenge demonstration&nbsp;</h2>

The incident sparked revenge demonstration from the supporters of Muqtada al-Sadr, 48, an influential Shi'ite cleric who commands the loyalty of hundreds of thousands of Iraqis.

His followers stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad on Thursday and set it on fire in protest against the planned burning of the Quran.&nbsp;

Sadr is one of Iraq's most powerful figures and commands hundreds of thousands of followers, whom he has at times called to the streets, including last summer when they occupied Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone and engaged in&nbsp;deadly clashes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-torch-swedens-embassy-in-baghdad-ahead-of-planned-burning-of-quran-617645">Protesters torch Sweden's embassy in Baghdad ahead of planned burning of Quran</a>

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that embassy staff were safe but blamed the Iraqi authorities for failing to protect the embassy in accordance with the Vienna Convention.

The minister condemned the storming of the embassy saying that was "completely unacceptable and added that the government strongly denounce these attacks".

"The government is in contact with high-level Iraqi representatives to express our dismay," he added.

Thursdays’ Quran burning protest was organised by Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika, which was the second such demonstration in Sweden in weeks.

On June 28, a few pages of the holy book were burnt by Momika in front of the largest mosque in Stockholm during Eid al-Adha.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Iraq on Thursday (July 20) cut diplomatic ties with Sweden in response to Swedish authorities allowing protesters to desecrate holy book Quran outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm.

Iraq on Thursday (July 20) cut diplomatic ties with Sweden in response to Swedish authorities allowing protesters to desecrate holy book Quran outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm. The government ordered the Swedish ambassador to leave the country and called back its envoy from the capital Stockholm. Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani "instructed the Swedish ambassador in Baghdad to leave Iraqi territory", his office said in a statement. Move prompted by Sweden's permission for burning Quran It said that the decision was "prompted by the Swedish government's repeated permission for the burning of the holy Quran, insulting Islamic sanctities and the burning of the Iraqi flag". Following the order, the Swedish Embassy said it has been closed to visitors. Prime Minister Shia al-Sudani assured strict punishment to the arsonists, referring to "negligent security officials" for investigation. The diplomatic blowback comes hours after a small group of protesters partially desecrated by stepping on a book they claimed was Quran. They left the area after one hour without setting it on fire, Reuters news agency news agency reported. Quran burning: Countries summon Swedish ambassadors Revenge demonstration The incident sparked revenge demonstration from the supporters of Muqtada al-Sadr, 48, an influential Shi'ite cleric who commands the loyalty of hundreds of thousands of Iraqis. His followers stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad on Thursday and set it on fire in protest against the planned burning of the Quran. Sadr is one of Iraq's most powerful figures and commands hundreds of thousands of followers, whom he has at times called to the streets, including last summer when they occupied Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone and engaged in deadly clashes. Also read | Protesters torch Sweden's embassy in Baghdad ahead of planned burning of Quran Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that embassy staff were safe but blamed the Iraqi authorities for failing to protect the embassy in accordance with the Vienna Convention. The minister condemned the storming of the embassy saying that was "completely unacceptable and added that the government strongly denounce these attacks". "The government is in contact with high-level Iraqi representatives to express our dismay," he added. Thursdays’ Quran burning protest was organised by Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika, which was the second such demonstration in Sweden in weeks. On June 28, a few pages of the holy book were burnt by Momika in front of the largest mosque in Stockholm during Eid al-Adha. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iraq expels Swedish envoy in response to planned Quran burning protest

The embassy of Sweden was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday (July&nbsp;20), stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden. The government authorities in Sweden had given approval to an assembly which is scheduled to be held later on Thursday outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm where organisers have planned to burn an Iraqi flag and a copy of the Quran.&nbsp;

Previous events of Quran burning held in Sweden have angered the Iraqis and the protest held in Baghdad on Thursday was organised by the turbulent religious leader Moqtada Sadr's supporters.&nbsp;

According to an AFP correspondent, smoke was seen rising from the Swedish embassy building and many demonstrators were still present on the scene after the torching of the embassy as authorities deployed a large number&nbsp;of Iraqi riot police.

"We are mobilised today to denounce the burning of the Quran, which is all about love and faith," said protester Hassan Ahmed, while speaking to AFP. "We demand that the Swedish government and the Iraqi government stop this type of initiative," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sweden-is-mulling-over-changing-law-to-public-burnings-of-koran-613361">Sweden considering amending the law to prevent burning of Quran in public</a>

A few protesters were holding up copies of the holy book while some were holding up images f Mohamed al-Sadr, father of Moqtada Sadr and an important religious cleric.

"We didn't wait until morning, we broke in at dawn and set fire to the Swedish embassy," said a young demonstrator in Baghdad, while speaking to AFP on Thursday while chanting the name of the leader.&nbsp;

The &nbsp;AFP correspondent stated that many fire engines were present on site to extinguish the blaze.&nbsp;

The Swedish foreign ministry on Thursday said that the staff in Baghdad's Swedish embassy are "safe" after the building was set on fire by the protesters.

"We are aware of the situation. Our embassy staff (in Iraq) are safe and the ministry is in regular contact with them," stated the ministry, in an email.

<h2>Iraq calls for urgent investigation&nbsp;</h2>

The torching of the embassy was condemned by Iraq's foreign ministry which directed the security forces to identify those responsible.

"The Iraqi government has instructed the relevant security services to conduct an urgent investigation and take all necessary measures to uncover the circumstances of the incident and identify the perpetrators," said the ministry in a statement.

WATCH |&nbsp;Sweden permits Quran burning protests

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sweden-permits-quran-burning-protests-609741/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Swedish media, Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika had organised the Quran burning event in Sweden.&nbsp;

A few pages of the holy book were burnt by the refugee in front of the largest mosque in Stockholm on June 28 during Eid al-Adha. The incident incited Moqtada's supporters who stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that&nbsp;Iraq's charge d'affaires in Stockholm has been summoned by the country after the incident.

"What has happened is completely unacceptable and the government condemns these attacks in the strongest terms. Iraqi authorities have an unequivocal obligation to protect diplomatic missions and personnel under the Vienna Convention," Minister&nbsp;Billstrom said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The embassy of Sweden was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday (July 20), stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden.

The embassy of Sweden was set on fire by protesters in the Iraqi capital Baghdad early on Thursday (July 20), stated an AFP journalist, ahead of the Quran's planned burning in Sweden. The government authorities in Sweden had given approval to an assembly which is scheduled to be held later on Thursday outside the Iraqi embassy in Stockholm where organisers have planned to burn an Iraqi flag and a copy of the Quran. Previous events of Quran burning held in Sweden have angered the Iraqis and the protest held in Baghdad on Thursday was organised by the turbulent religious leader Moqtada Sadr's supporters. According to an AFP correspondent, smoke was seen rising from the Swedish embassy building and many demonstrators were still present on the scene after the torching of the embassy as authorities deployed a large number of Iraqi riot police. "We are mobilised today to denounce the burning of the Quran, which is all about love and faith," said protester Hassan Ahmed, while speaking to AFP. "We demand that the Swedish government and the Iraqi government stop this type of initiative," he added. ALSO READ | Sweden considering amending the law to prevent burning of Quran in public A few protesters were holding up copies of the holy book while some were holding up images f Mohamed al-Sadr, father of Moqtada Sadr and an important religious cleric. "We didn't wait until morning, we broke in at dawn and set fire to the Swedish embassy," said a young demonstrator in Baghdad, while speaking to AFP on Thursday while chanting the name of the leader. The AFP correspondent stated that many fire engines were present on site to extinguish the blaze. The Swedish foreign ministry on Thursday said that the staff in Baghdad's Swedish embassy are "safe" after the building was set on fire by the protesters. "We are aware of the situation. Our embassy staff (in Iraq) are safe and the ministry is in regular contact with them," stated the ministry, in an email. Iraq calls for urgent investigation The torching of the embassy was condemned by Iraq's foreign ministry which directed the security forces to identify those responsible. "The Iraqi government has instructed the relevant security services to conduct an urgent investigation and take all necessary measures to uncover the circumstances of the incident and identify the perpetrators," said the ministry in a statement. WATCH | Sweden permits Quran burning protests According to Swedish media, Iraqi refugee Salwan Momika had organised the Quran burning event in Sweden. A few pages of the holy book were burnt by the refugee in front of the largest mosque in Stockholm on June 28 during Eid al-Adha. The incident incited Moqtada's supporters who stormed the Swedish embassy in Baghdad. Meanwhile, Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that Iraq's charge d'affaires in Stockholm has been summoned by the country after the incident. "What has happened is completely unacceptable and the government condemns these attacks in the strongest terms. Iraqi authorities have an unequivocal obligation to protect diplomatic missions and personnel under the Vienna Convention," Minister Billstrom said in a statement. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Protesters torch Sweden's embassy in Baghdad ahead of planned burning of Quran

India backed Pakistan’s resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR) condemning Quran burning protests across Europe.

The resolution called for the governments to enforce stricter measures to prevent religious hatred, while the West countries opposed it claiming that intervention could hamper freedom of expression.

On Wednesday, the resolution, brought by Pakistan and Palestine, got a tremendous response with a 28-12 vote, while seven nations abstained. It was introduced on behalf of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Many developing countries supported the measure, including China, India, and nations in West Asia&nbsp;(Middle East) and Africa.

Among the countries who were against the resolution were the United States and the European Union, who said that it goes against their view on human rights and freedom of expression.

The resolution comes in the wake of Swedish authorities allowing an Iraqi immigrant to burn the Quran outside a Stockholm mosque last month, sparking outrage across the Muslim world and demands by Muslim states for action.

WATCH | Quran burning: Countries summon Swedish ambassadors

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/quran-burning-countries-summon-swedish-ambassadors-turkey-yet-to-ratify-nato-membership-bid-611728/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>'Does not seek to curtail the right to free speech'</h2>

Following the conclusion of the vote, Pakistan’s Ambassador Khalil Hashmi clarified that the measure “does not seek to curtail the right to free speech,” instead, it tries to strike a “prudent balance” between it and “special duties and responsibilities.”

“The opposition of a few in the room has emanated from their unwillingness to condemn the public desecration of the Holy Quran or any other religious book,” Hashmi said, reports AP news agency.

“They lack political, legal and moral courage to condemn this act, and it was the minimum that the council could have expected from them.”

The US Permanent Representative to the U.N. Human Rights Council, Michele Taylor, on the other hand, decried the vote's outcome, saying that the United States' concerns about the initiative "were not taken seriously."

"I believe with a little more time and more open discussion, we could have also found a way forward together on this resolution," she said.

Sweden has been in the crosshairs of a raging debate whether to uphold freedom of expression or prevent the acts that are deemed to be targeting a particular community, especially the Muslims, in the wake of the Quran burning protests.

On June 28, an Iraqi immigrant to Sweden ripped, burned, and&nbsp;stomped on the Quran&nbsp;outside a Stockholm mosque last month during the Eid al-Adha holiday.

Swedish police had authorised the gathering, but they subsequently opened an investigation for "agitation against an ethnic group", on the grounds that the burning took place in front of a mosque.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

India backed Pakistan’s resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR) condemning Quran burning protests across Europe. The resolution called for the governments to enforce stricter measures to prevent religious hatred, while the West countries opposed it claiming that intervention could hamper freedom of expression.

India backed Pakistan’s resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHCR) condemning Quran burning protests across Europe. The resolution called for the governments to enforce stricter measures to prevent religious hatred, while the West countries opposed it claiming that intervention could hamper freedom of expression. On Wednesday, the resolution, brought by Pakistan and Palestine, got a tremendous response with a 28-12 vote, while seven nations abstained. It was introduced on behalf of the 57-nation Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Many developing countries supported the measure, including China, India, and nations in West Asia (Middle East) and Africa. Among the countries who were against the resolution were the United States and the European Union, who said that it goes against their view on human rights and freedom of expression. The resolution comes in the wake of Swedish authorities allowing an Iraqi immigrant to burn the Quran outside a Stockholm mosque last month, sparking outrage across the Muslim world and demands by Muslim states for action. WATCH | Quran burning: Countries summon Swedish ambassadors 'Does not seek to curtail the right to free speech' Following the conclusion of the vote, Pakistan’s Ambassador Khalil Hashmi clarified that the measure “does not seek to curtail the right to free speech,” instead, it tries to strike a “prudent balance” between it and “special duties and responsibilities.” “The opposition of a few in the room has emanated from their unwillingness to condemn the public desecration of the Holy Quran or any other religious book,” Hashmi said, reports AP news agency. “They lack political, legal and moral courage to condemn this act, and it was the minimum that the council could have expected from them.” The US Permanent Representative to the U.N. Human Rights Council, Michele Taylor, on the other hand, decried the vote's outcome, saying that the United States' concerns about the initiative "were not taken seriously." "I believe with a little more time and more open discussion, we could have also found a way forward together on this resolution," she said. Sweden has been in the crosshairs of a raging debate whether to uphold freedom of expression or prevent the acts that are deemed to be targeting a particular community, especially the Muslims, in the wake of the Quran burning protests. On June 28, an Iraqi immigrant to Sweden ripped, burned, and stomped on the Quran outside a Stockholm mosque last month during the Eid al-Adha holiday. Swedish police had authorised the gathering, but they subsequently opened an investigation for "agitation against an ethnic group", on the grounds that the burning took place in front of a mosque. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India backs Pakistan’s resolution at UN condemning Quran burning protests

Muslim states, including Iran and Pakistan, on Tuesday (July 11) called for accountability in the wake of the Quran burning in Sweden. The countries have said that the desecration of the Quran amounted to inciting religious hatred. The appeal has come as the United Nations is debating a contentious motion in connection with the Quran burning incident.

The motion has been brought by Pakistan in response to last month's incident. The motion seeks a report from the UN rights chief on the topic. It also calls on the states to review their laws and plug any gaps which may "impede the prevention and prosecution of acts and advocacy of religious hatred".

The debate has underlined rifts in the UN Human Rights Council. The rift is between the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) and Western members. The Western bloc is concerned about the motion's implication for free speech and challenges posed to long-held practices in rights protection.

An Iraqi immigrant to Sweden burned the Quran outside a Stockholm mosque last month, sparking outrage across the Muslim world and protests in several Pakistani cities.

<h2>Pakistan leads charge</h2>

"We must see this clearly for what it is: incitement to religious hatred, discrimination and attempts to provoke violence," Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari told the Geneva council via video, saying such acts occurred under "government sanction and with the sense of impunity".

Iran, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia echoed Bhutto-Zardari's remarks. Indonesia called the Quran burning an act of Islamophobia.

"Stop abusing freedom of expression," said Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. "Silence means complicity."

Germany said the Quran burning was a "dreadful provocation" and condemned it. But the ambassador added that "freedom of speech sometimes also means to bear opinions that may seem almost unbearable".

The French envoy said human rights were about protecting people and not religions and religious symbols.

Heavy negotiations have not led to a breakthrough. A vote is expected on the issue. Such a vote would almost certainly pass since OIC countries make up 19 members of the 47-member body and also have support from China and others.

U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk told the council that inflammatory acts against Muslims, as well as other religions or minorities, are "offensive, irresponsible and wrong".

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Muslim states, including Iran and Pakistan, on Tuesday (July 11) called for accountability in the wake of the Quran burning in Sweden. The countries have said that the desecration of the Quran amounted to inciting religious hatred.

Muslim states, including Iran and Pakistan, on Tuesday (July 11) called for accountability in the wake of the Quran burning in Sweden. The countries have said that the desecration of the Quran amounted to inciting religious hatred. The appeal has come as the United Nations is debating a contentious motion in connection with the Quran burning incident. The motion has been brought by Pakistan in response to last month's incident. The motion seeks a report from the UN rights chief on the topic. It also calls on the states to review their laws and plug any gaps which may "impede the prevention and prosecution of acts and advocacy of religious hatred". The debate has underlined rifts in the UN Human Rights Council. The rift is between the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) and Western members. The Western bloc is concerned about the motion's implication for free speech and challenges posed to long-held practices in rights protection. An Iraqi immigrant to Sweden burned the Quran outside a Stockholm mosque last month, sparking outrage across the Muslim world and protests in several Pakistani cities. Pakistan leads charge "We must see this clearly for what it is: incitement to religious hatred, discrimination and attempts to provoke violence," Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari told the Geneva council via video, saying such acts occurred under "government sanction and with the sense of impunity". Iran, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia echoed Bhutto-Zardari's remarks. Indonesia called the Quran burning an act of Islamophobia. "Stop abusing freedom of expression," said Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. "Silence means complicity." Germany said the Quran burning was a "dreadful provocation" and condemned it. But the ambassador added that "freedom of speech sometimes also means to bear opinions that may seem almost unbearable". The French envoy said human rights were about protecting people and not religions and religious symbols. Heavy negotiations have not led to a breakthrough. A vote is expected on the issue. Such a vote would almost certainly pass since OIC countries make up 19 members of the 47-member body and also have support from China and others. U.N. Human Rights Chief Volker Turk told the council that inflammatory acts against Muslims, as well as other religions or minorities, are "offensive, irresponsible and wrong". (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

UN: Muslim countries demand action over Quran burning in Sweden

quran

Quran, News on Quran, stories on Quran, articles on Quran, Quran stories at Wion, Quran news, Quran latest news