Australian National Imams Council defends imam's Hamas comments

Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) president Sheikh Shadi Alsuleiman defended council member Sheikh Ibrahim Dadoun after Dadoun said he was “elated” by the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel. Dadoun made the remarks at a gathering in Lakemba, Sydney, describing the attacks as a “day of courage, pride and victory.”

At a Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion hearing in Sydney, Alsuleiman said the comments were inappropriate but argued the council should guide imams through mistakes rather than expel them. He noted that Dadoun later issued a public statement denying support for the killing of civilians and that the council asked him to do so. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the remarks, calling any celebration of civilian deaths unacceptable. The ANIC chose not to impose further punishment, emphasizing community cohesion and internal guidance.