| Dr. Rateb Jneid: “It is a very painful incident for the student, his family, the school, and the entire Muslim community...” |
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AFIC Statement on Incident at the Islamic College of Brisbane July 15, 2026 See translation in Arabic section Sydney – Middle East Times Int’l:The
Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) is deeply distressed
by the serious incident that occurred at the Islamic College of Brisbane
in Karawatha on Tuesday. Reports indicate that a 17-year-old student
was taken to hospital in a critical condition following an alleged
stabbing at the school, and that a 16-year-old has since been charged by
police. The matter is now before the relevant authorities, and AFIC
urges the community to allow the investigation and legal process to take
its course. At this difficult time, AFIC’s thoughts and prayers are
with the injured student, his family, his classmates, the staff of the
Islamic College of Brisbane, and the wider school community. We ask
Allah (SWT) to grant the young person a full and swift recovery, to
bring comfort to his family, and to protect all students, staff and
families affected by this distressing incident. AFIC President Dr Rateb Jneid said: “This
is a deeply distressing incident for the student, his family, the
school and the wider Muslim community. Our immediate concern is for the
recovery of the injured student and the wellbeing of all children,
families and staff who have been affected.” AFIC stands with the
students, families, teachers and staff affected by this incident, and
recognises the deep distress that such events can cause across the
broader community. At this time, the focus must remain on care, support,
calm and allowing those directly involved to receive the assistance
they need. Incidents of serious violence involving young people are
distressing for any community. They remind us of the importance of
supporting students, strengthening school wellbeing systems, and
ensuring families, educators, counsellors and community leaders work
together to protect children and respond early when young people are in
distress. Dr Jneid said: “Our children must be safe in
their schools. That requires not only strong policies and procedures,
but also strong relationships, pastoral care, early support and a shared
commitment from families, schools and communities.” AFIC encourages
community members to keep the injured student and his family in their
du’a, to support one another with care, and to avoid any commentary that
may increase distress for students, families or staff. We pray for healing, patience and protection for all those affected. ________________________________________ AFIC,
established in 1964, stands as the Peak Muslim Organisation in
Australia, with 170 members including 9 State and Territory Councils. It
has a rich history of pioneering numerous community services and
actively advocating for the rights and representation of the Muslim
community. Authorised: Dr Rateb Jneid, President |