Victorian Islamic leader criticised over comments casting doubt on death toll from 7 Oct

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In recent discussions surrounding the aftermath of Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, Adel Salman, the president of the Islamic Council of Victoria, sparked controversy with his comments on ABC Radio National. Salman's remarks appeared to question the official death toll from the attack and defended what he termed a "legitimate act of resistance" by Palestinians against Israeli occupation.

 

The comments made by Salman drew sharp criticism from various quarters, including the Executive Council of Australian Jewry. The council condemned Salman's statements, expressing concern over his apparent skepticism regarding the death toll and his characterization of the attack as a legitimate act of resistance.

 

During his appearance on ABC Radio National, Salman stated that while he denounced violence and the killing of civilians, he believed it was legitimate for Palestinians to resist Israeli occupation on October 7. His remarks raised eyebrows, particularly when he suggested that there were doubts about the number of casualties from the attack.

 

Host Patricia Karvelas pushed back against Salman's assertion, highlighting the widely accepted death toll of 1,200 people and emphasizing that the number was not contested. However, Salman maintained that there were differing accounts of what transpired during the attack and called for a proper investigation to ascertain the truth.

 

Following the backlash, Salman clarified his position to Guardian Australia, stating that he did not intend to dispute the death toll provided by Israeli officials. Instead, he emphasized his concerns about the differing explanations surrounding the events of October 7 and advocated for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth.

 

Salman's comments have reignited debates surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader issue of violence in the region. They have also raised questions about the role of leaders in shaping public discourse and the importance of responsible communication in sensitive matters.

The controversy underscores the complex nature of the conflict and the challenges involved in finding a resolution that addresses the grievances of all parties involved. It also highlights the need for nuanced dialogue and a commitment to understanding the perspectives of all stakeholders in the pursuit of peace and justice in the region.

 

As discussions continue, it is essential for leaders and communities to engage in constructive dialogue, promote mutual understanding, and work towards finding lasting solutions to the longstanding issues that have plagued the region for decades. Only through genuine engagement and collaboration can progress be made towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.

 

29.02.24

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[coolcarer]

I think a trip to the tunnels is just reward for his remarks. “Act of resistance” it was not

[retarius]

Palestine is occupied by Israelis. The Palestinians have a legitimate right to attack and over thrown the occupiers of their land. You can quibble about attacking unarmed citizens, and say that Hamas should have attacked the IDF, but Israelis have shown no restraint in killing tens of thousands off innocent civilians including some today. Also this is an asymmetric war, a nuclear armed state vs some guys with guns, they do what they have to.....but if you claim to have the moral high ground, to be a democracy and definitely not an apartheid state, then don't kill teens of thousands of unarmed innocent civilians because you want to steal even more of their land. 

[Neeranam]

They already were caught out lying about the numbers, they counted  the Hamas members.

[Neeranam]

30 minutes ago, retarius said:

Palestine is occupied by Israelis. The Palestinians have a legitimate right to attack and over thrown the occupiers of their land. You can quibble about attacking unarmed citizens, and say that Hamas should have attacked the IDF, but Israelis have shown no restraint in killing tens of thousands off innocent civilians including some today. Also this is an asymmetric war, a nuclear armed state vs some guys with guns, they do what they have to.....but if you claim to have the moral high ground, to be a democracy and definitely not an apartheid state, then don't kill teens of thousands of unarmed innocent civilians because you want to steal even more of their land. 

Most people are supporting the underdogs now. it's disgraceful how some can still be pro Israel. 

[Bkk Brian]

8 hours ago, Neeranam said:

Most people are supporting the underdogs now. it's disgraceful how some can still be pro Israel. 

The underdogs? The war is against Hamas they are vicious terrorists still holding innocent hostages. The need to be eliminated.

[Nick Carter icp]

9 hours ago, retarius said:

Palestine is occupied by Israelis. The Palestinians have a legitimate right to attack and over thrown the occupiers of their land. You can quibble about attacking unarmed citizens, and say that Hamas should have attacked the IDF, but Israelis have shown no restraint in killing tens of thousands off innocent civilians including some today. Also this is an asymmetric war, a nuclear armed state vs some guys with guns, they do what they have to.....but if you claim to have the moral high ground, to be a democracy and definitely not an apartheid state, then don't kill teens of thousands of unarmed innocent civilians because you want to steal even more of their land. 

 

  Its a war, you wanted a war and you got a war, stop complaining just because you are losing the war