Akram Mahshoush: Community unity foils incitement

Sheikh Akram Mahshoush said the region is going through a difficult and sensitive period, amid escalating incitement and persistent efforts to spread hate speech and sow social discord among different communities, particularly Arabs and Kurds.

In an interview with ANHA agency, he stressed that historical ties and deep-rooted bonds passed down through generations form the primary line of defence against the region sliding into chaos.

External Agendas and Limited Influence

Mahshoush explained that clear external agendas are systematically working to fuel discord and impose a reality of destruction and confrontation among the components of society.

Despite these attempts, he said, the social fabric remains strong and cohesive. He noted that the influence of these destructive projects does not exceed 10% at most, while the vast majority of society stands united in rejecting hate speech, upholding national unity and the brotherhood of peoples, and strengthening the internal front.

Call to Move Beyond Revolutionary Slogans and Focus on State-Building

Mahshoush called on parties that continue to use the term “revolutionaries” to reconsider their positions, arguing that the concept of revolution in its former sense has come to an end. He said the region is now entering a phase of integration, state institution-building and legal accountability.

He added that the primary objective should be to preserve social cohesion and uphold the values and traditions passed down by previous generations, rather than exploiting slogans to justify violations.

Enforcing the Law and Regulating Protests

Mahshoush said security forces are taking firm action against those attempting to undermine stability, adding that some parties opposed to compliance with public order are exploiting these measures.

He called on the relevant authorities to take firm action and hold accountable anyone who seeks to engage in sabotage, insult citizens, fire gunshots or assault residents under the pretext of peaceful protest.

Referring to international norms and regulations, he stressed that protests around the world are subject to strict licensing procedures set by the relevant authorities, such as municipalities or internal security forces. These procedures include designating permitted routes for marches, requiring gatherings to take place at fixed locations announced in advance, and ensuring that speeches and slogans remain focused on specific demands without undermining civil peace.

Exploitation of Children

Sheikh Mahshoush concluded by highlighting the methods used by parties inciting unrest. He said some gatherings have been observed shifting away from their original demands and adopting different labels and identities, while children and adolescents are being specifically targeted, with money allegedly offered to them to fuel unrest and destruction among communities.

Mahshoush praised the awareness demonstrated by residents from all tribes and communities, who stood against these activities alongside security forces. He said the forces had succeeded in arresting a number of people involved in incitement and referring them to the judiciary to face justice in accordance with the law.

a.k

ANHA