—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—
JAMAICA, New York (June 22, 2011) – In a press release issued today, the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA) called for an end to the war in Afghanistan.
“Over 1,500 American lives have been lost in Afghanistan,” said ICNA President Dr. Zahid Bukhari, “and thousands more have been physically and emotionally scarred by this senseless war. After ten years Afghanistan still remains a political quagmire. Our nation has lost the moral and political grounds to continue its efforts on Afghan soil. ”
“ICNA appreciates President Obama’s announcement of troop withdrawal but calls upon the administration for a complete withdrawal from Afghanistan. We have already lost priceless lives to this war, and at a time when our nation’s economy is staggering we are spending over $120 billion a year in Afghanistan, and have thus far spent nearly $500 billion on this war. Thousands around the US are losing their jobs and inner city unemployment is at an all time high. According to the latest CNN/Opinion Research Corporation survey 80% of Americans agree that the economy is in poor shape and unemployment should be the national priority.”
“ICNA also urges the Obama administration to push for an end to drone attacks in Pakistan and other nations. Such attacks only foster anti-American sentiments and continue to put our nation at risk.”
