Statement on the recent plot to attack a Shia Muslim Islamic Center in Illinois

July 7, 2025

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

God Almighty states, “Had not Allah repulsed the people from one another, ruin would have befallen the monasteries, churches, synagogues and mosques in which Allah’s Name is much invoked. Allah will surely help those who help Him. Indeed Allah is all-strong, all-mighty.” (The Holy Quran 22:40)

The Council of Shia Muslim Scholars of North America unequivocally condemns the plot to attack a Shia Muslim mosque in Glendale Heights, a suburb of Chicago, Illinois, during the sacred month of Muharram (July 2025) when many Muslims, and even non-Muslims, gather to commemorate the valiant stand of Imam Hussain (p) against oppression. Details of the attempted terror attack are still unclear, although we have learned that the plot was fortunately thwarted by the timely intervention of law enforcement.

Unfortunately, anti-Muslim speech and attacks on Muslim individuals and houses of worship are increasing in frequency. The negative language, false depiction, and biased coverage of many media organizations and the polarizing and Islamophobic rhetoric of certain prominent politicians have contributed significantly to the rise of such dangerous incidents.

We reassert our strong conviction for universal safety, security, and freedom, and affirm that these civil rights apply to everyone in society. There is no place in American society and politics for rhetoric or policy that misrepresents, dehumanizes, exploits, or incites against any individual or group on the basis of religion, ethnicity, or background.

The Council is grateful to law enforcement for its efforts to keep the community safe and urges it to increase protection of Muslim houses of worship, particularly for Shia Muslim institutions which have been under increased threat. We also call on all members of society, particularly those with prominent voices in politics, the media, and the clergy, to encourage respectful discourse and avoid inflammatory language. In an increasingly polarized world, it is imperative for leaders, both religious and political, as well as each member of society to encourage social harmony and denounce those who fan the flames of hatred and prejudice.

We urge Islamic organizations to be vigilant so that safety and security can be assured for worshippers and attendees, and call upon Muslims to be more engaged with their neighbors, communities, and local government in order to build bridges of cooperation and remove misunderstandings.

“Cooperate in piety and Godwariness, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression, and be wary of Allah.” (The Holy Quran, 5:2)

Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi

Secretary-General