Pakistan: America’s Undeclared War

Earlier this month the US unveiled plans to deploy 20,000 troops into the Afghanistan-Pakistan region bringing the total number of American troops to 51,000. The troop deployment and continued bombing are part of a US strategy to elicit complete surrender of the Ummah in that part of the world. The Ummah must work diligently in the Muslim world to re-establish the Khilafah and unite under a single leadership to push back the Capitalist colonial powers.

Reports this week from the American Forces Press Service on December 5th, 2008 quoting Maj. Gen. Michael Tucker revealed that the United States is building a massive new barracks as part of its plans to inject at least a further 20,000 troops into the Afghanistan-Pakistan region next year. The new deployments will almost double the number of troops the US has in the region bringing the number of troops from 31,000 to 51,000. This is in addition to the 34,000 NATO troops currently operating in the region.

Pakistan: Bombed over 30 times by the US
The build up of American troops must be seen in the context of the continuous bombing that the American forces are conducting in Pakistani territory. The most recent attack occurred on December 15th in North Waziristan where two people were killed.

According to individuals on the ground, these strikes are actually targeting civilians. For example, On November 20th, Dawn (a Pakistani newspaper) reported that US unmanned drones fired 2 missiles on a residential compound in the Bannu district. OpEdNews stated that as many as 4 people had been killed and 3 others had been injured. Claims have been made that those killed were militants. However, Adnan Wazir, MPA from Janikel stated that, “No one among those killed in the attack was a foreigner nor were they terrorists. Innocent locals were killed in the attack, which is a violation of the borders of the country."

Shift in Rhetoric
Over the last few months, there has been a noticeable shift in the rhetoric coming out of Washington. After 9/11 when Pakistan decided to allow American use of its land and resources to launch attacks against Afghanistan, Pakistan was considered a key friend and ally. For example, the BBC reported in June 2004 that President Bush said, "I hereby designate the Islamic Republic of Pakistan as major non-NATO ally of the United States for the purposes of the Arms Export Control Act.’" Economic sanctions which were once placed on the nation for nuclear testing were lifted. Furthermore, Pakistan began to receive aid for their continued support in the war on Afghanistan. Today, Pakistan is seen as a country unwilling or unable to halt supposed “terrorist activity” streaming from the Pakistani side of the border into Afghanistan. The Wall Street Journal reported that General James Conway, a senior US military commander stated, "Iraq is now a rear-guard action on the part of al Qaeda…They've changed their strategic focus not to Afghanistan but to Pakistan, because Pakistan is the closest place where you have the nexus of terrorism and nuclear weapons." This rhetoric has been voiced by US President Bush and reiterated by President elect Obama, ensuring that a policy of aggression against Pakistan will continue.

Through its economy, Pakistan is also being made to suffer. Recently, Pakistan was facing a foreign exchange crisis shortfall of $4 billion mainly because it has up to $3 billion of debt repayments falling due on old interest-based loans. Pakistan requested and received $7.6 billion from the IMF on the condition that it reduces its army by one-third. With Pakistan on the brink of economic disaster, her former friend and ally (the US) has done nothing to assist in preventing the potential crisis despite the fact that Pakistan is supplying 80% of the fuel used by American forces in Afghanistan.

Different Muslim Area, Same Idea
What has caused Pakistan which was America’s friend to turn into a targeted region? If we look around the Muslim world, we will see that this situation is not unique to Pakistan but rather has been a recurring trend in American policy. Similarities can be drawn to other Muslim countries which are being attacked or occupied by America and her allies:

Iraq: In the 1980’s Iraq was once a friend of the United States receiving support and military aid. This relationship quickly changed with operation Desert Storm in the early 1990’s and the recent 2003 invasion in which the United States and Britain claimed to enter a war with Iraq to disarm it of nuclear weapons and end the tyranny of Saddam Hussein – the very same person America had a warm relationship with earlier.

Afghanistan: America had supported the resistance by the Muslims against the Soviet invasion in Afghanistan. After the expulsion of Russia from the region, relations between the US and the Taliban increased to such an extent that in 1997 the Taliban were guests in Texas discussing an oil pipeline agreement in the Caspian Sea with Unocal. After 9/11 the US and her allies entered Afghanistan under the pretext that it was harboring terrorists.

The Capitalist approach to dealing with the Muslim countries was best summarized by Lord Palmerston (an 18th century English Statesman) who said: “Nations have no permanent friends or allies, they only have permanent interests.” As a result, we – as an Ummah – should not be surprised when the West suddenly turns on a Muslim country that they were supporting, as their primary objective is to dominate all spheres of humanity, especially the areas of economy and politics.

America supported Pakistan as long as Pakistan was willing to subordinate its resources to serve American interests in the region. This was the case until Pakistan started straying from America’s orders. For example, in August 2008 the US expressed its dissatisfaction with Pakistan’s refusal to move against the Muslims who are supporting the resistance in Afghanistan. Regarding this matter, Davis McCarnon, the commander of the US forces in Afghanistan, said “Do I believe that there is a kind of connivance from the Pakistani intelligence? Yes, I believe so.” He added “We have observed an increasing number of foreign fighters in south eastern Afghanistan in the last year or so and we are waiting for the Pakistani authorities to move against them and deny them safe havens.” As a result, America has started bombing the region in order to force Pakistan to fight these Muslims. The US intends to enflame the ethnic tensions between the Pashtuns and the Pakistani government with the aim of breaking up the country – just as they did in Iraq.

Ummah under Siege: Pakistan, Gaza, and Iraq
As an Ummah, we must realize that the US is working in multiple theatres to force us into submission. In Iraq, the US has openly admitted that they will retain their forces until 2011. In Gaza, the Muslims are being squeezed by Israel’s embargo to the point where they must eat wild grass to survive!

The attacks against Muslims in Gaza, Iraq, and Pakistan are not isolated from one another. They are part of the US’s effort to consolidate its stranglehold on the Ummah and to make the Muslims submit to its ideology: Capitalism.

Since the time of Rasul’Allah (saw), the Ummah has often faced great odds against the forces of disbelief. However, the Ummah has never surrendered. For example, when the Mongols sacked Baghdad, the Ummah not only retained its Islam, but defeated them and conveyed the dawah to them, until they themselves became Muslims!

Khilafah: Need of the Time
In relation to the situation in Pakistan and the rest of the Muslim world we should ponder on the words of our beloved Messenger (saw) when he said:

“Behold, the Imam is but a shield from behind which the people fight and by which they protect themselves.” [Muslim]

The only solution to the fighting between the Muslim countries and between Muslims and their occupiers is by having an Imam – a Khalifah who will be able to organize our affairs according to the commands of Allah (swt). A prerequisite for the Imam is having a system in the Muslim lands – the Khilafah Rashidah – that will implement the laws of Allah (swt) in all aspects of life, whether they are social, political or economical.

Living outside the Muslim world, one may ask what can be done to help. With a large Muslim community, especially from Pakistan, living here in Canada we have the opportunity to:

• Create awareness amongst the community: The media is hardly reporting anything that is happening in Pakistan. We should discuss in our social circles the situation and use it as another example of how friendly relations with the West are short-lived. We should also propose the only permanent solution - re-establishment of the Khilafah Rashidah in the Muslim lands.
• Discuss with our family abroad: Since there is a large Pakistani community living here, that means that our range of contact through family ties are even broader. We should seize the opportunity to discuss with our families living overseas and encourage them to take practical suggestions to the Pakistani government including:
• Severing diplomatic ties with the US – If Bolivia and Venezuela can drive out US ambassadors for interfering with their affairs then it should be possible for a nuclear state such as Pakistan to do likewise.
• Withdraw all military assistance to the US – Deny the military access to airbases, waterways and ports which the US have become heavily dependant on.
• Expel US military and intelligence from Pakistani soil.
• Discontinue the supply lines to the US.
• Re-establish the Khilafah Rashidah according to the method of the Prophet (saw).

As an Ummah we must realize that if we want victory we must promote the Islamic Aqeedah as the sole reference point for all thoughts and actions – not only within ourselves – but also within society. In the end the victory will belong to the believers inshAllah. May Allah (swt) allow us to be of those who work hard for His Deen so that He may be pleased with us and forgive us and allow us into Jannat Al-Firdous without any accountability.

“Verily, along with every hardship is relief, verily, along with hardship is relief. So when you have finished (your occupation), devote yourself for Allah's worship. And to your Lord (Alone) turn (all your) intentions and hopes.”
[TMQ 94:4-8]

Islamic Economics & the Current Crisis

The turmoil in the global financial markets is a source of distress throughout the world. The roots of the crisis are imbedded in the Capitalist way of thinking which maintains the freedom of ownership as the highest ideal. Such a crisis would not have happened in the Islamic State since it would regulate the economic system according to the Law of Allah (swt).

The financial crisis continues to be a source of anxiety for economies around the globe. The Global Credit Crunch, more than a year on, shows no sign of slowing down and has now reached a boiling point due to the number of banks that continue to collapse. Comparisons continue to be made with the Great Depression of the 1930's, as many of the conditions present in the current crisis were also present on the eve of the Great Depression.

The relevance of Khilafah to the Current Crisis
The spectacular collapse of Western banks such as Lehman Brothers and Merrill Lynch, the unprecedented $700 billion dollar bailout of the American financial system, and similar actions across Europe have led people to question the fundamentals of the Western Capitalist system. Amid weakening confidence in the system, the rising specter of a deep recession, and increasing unemployment, many thinkers, journalists and economists have questioned whether Capitalism really does work.

As Allah (swt) has revealed, Islam has all the solutions society needs, including those that relate to the economy:

“And We have revealed the Book to you as an exposition to all things, a guide, a mercy and glad tidings to Muslims."
[TMQ 16:89]

However, before analyzing the problem and exploring the Islamic solutions, it should be clear that the Islamic Economic System cannot be applied without Khilafah.

The Khalifah must be in authority to guarantee that the economic dealings of society are conducted according to hukm shari. He must ensure that the sole source of legislation used by the courts is Islam. If there are problems, he must intervene and take appropriate actions to guarantee that all transactions are conducted based on what Allah (swt) has revealed.

Underlying Causes of the Current Crisis
Any observer of the state of the Capitalist economic system can see that the system is on the verge of collapse – if it has not collapsed already. Whatever efforts the Capitalists have planned to salvage the system can only at best provide temporary relief. This is because the causes of the problem lie within the foundations of Capitalism, and cannot be solved by mere patch work on the surface. There are four factors at the heart of Capitalism's foundation that needs to be addressed:

1. Lack of the gold standard: After World War II, the world adopted the US dollar as the reserve currency under the Bretton Woods' agreement (i.e. which ensures that nations could redeem US dollars for gold). However, the US broke this agreement in 1971 and did not allow countries to redeem their dollars for gold. This rendered the global economy susceptible to any economic shock in the United States, as most countries were tied to the dollar – a worthless piece of paper printed in the US – instead of gold. Even after the advent of the Euro in the economic arena, the dollar generally retained its position, as most currencies were tied to it.

It is for this reason that, unless gold returns as the monetary standard, such economic crises will certainly be repeated. The global system is effectively held hostage by the US dollar. Any dollar shock or US policy affecting the dollar will have effects outside of America.

2. Riba (interest) based loans result in great economic difficulties. Inevitably, companies, individuals, and states face a situation where they are unable to pay the loans due to the nature of compound interest. This results in a loan repayment crisis. Economic activity and production slows down due to the inability to repay such loans.

3. Legality of stocks, derivatives, futures, and alowing the purchase of goods without taking possession of them: The system and practices in the financial markets and stock exchanges of buying and selling shares, financial instruments and commodities cause a separation between the physical economy and the financial (paper) economy. In the Capitalist system, it is allowed to exchange commodities, derivatives, and other financial instruments without taking physical possession of goods. Rather, pieces of paper representing the asset are bought and sold many times over, without actual goods being transferred between the seller and buyer. This practice causes wild swings in the prices of goods. All this triggers shocks in the markets, but speculators continue to engage in such activity with the expectation of making large profits. These practices are only exposed when the economy is in a financial crisis – such as the one unfolding across the world today.

4. Free market dogma: Although most people recognize that the state-owned approach of Communism was a failure, there is a lack of awareness of how the economy needs to have a mixed approach to ownership, as prescribed by the shariah. The US government intervention into the system – back tracking on a US Senate law prohibiting any restriction upon the financial system – is a testament to the failure of the laissez-faire approach to economy.

The Islamic Approach
Without doubt, it is the Islamic economic model alone that cures and prevents the occurrence of such economic crises. For it alone has prohibited the factors that lead to economic crises in the first place.

1. The silver-gold monetary standard: Islam mandates that only gold and silver can be the monetary standard. Any paper currency issued must be fully convertible to gold or silver on demand. Consequently, paper currency of one country cannot be tied to the currency of any other country. Rather each state's currency must be free of any other currency and have its own fixed, unalterable value.

2. Absolute prohibition on riba (interest): Islam has prohibited interest in all its forms and mandated loans to the needy to assist them, without any interest or surcharge over their principal amount. Islam mandates that the treasury, the Bait ul-Maal, maintains a separate head to provide interest-free loans in order to assist those in need.

3. Specific regulation over partnership structures and the sale of goods: Islam prohibits the selling of goods before the buyer takes possession, thus preventing speculation in commodities. It also prohibits transactions in financial instruments, derivatives and shares resulting from batil (invalid) contracts, along with other speculative trading. These practices are specific to the Capitalist economy, which allows them in the name of freedom of ownership.

4. Using the shariah to determine ownership of goods: Allah (swt) designated three types of ownership:

• Public Ownership consisting of solid, liquid and gaseous minerals including petrol, iron, copper, gold, natural gases etc. found in the depths of earth, all forms of energies and the energy-intensive, heavy industrial plants. Consequently, individuals/companies are prohibited from owning such items. Instead, these public properties are to be managed by the state and their benefits distributed amongst its people.
• State Ownership includes taxes collected by the state and any revenues earned by the state from agricultural, trade and industrial activity, outside the range of public properties. The state spends these incomes on state expenses.
• Private Ownership unlike the above two, is held by individuals and disposed of in accordance with the Shariah rules.

By applying Islam and ensuring the above categories of ownership, the Khilafah will avoid the disastrous policies of Communism and Capitalism. The Communists had state ownership of heavy industries, oil, etc, but their prohibition of private ownership of agriculture, trade, etc resulted in the collapse of their system. The Capitalists, on the other hand, allowed private ownership of public utilities and properties like petrol, gases, energy sources, heavy and even strategic arms industry to individuals, enterprises and companies. This deprived the state of the resources and cash-flow required to manage the affairs of the people and ensure stability in the economy.

Preparing for the inevitable collapse of Capitalism
Capitalism will last as long as Allah (swt) wills it to last and it will not last a day longer. Their transgression against the laws of Allah (swt) will cause them to fail – be it in the next year or in the next decade. With the imminent collapse of the system, the question on everyone’s mind remains: what is the alternative?

Islam has the solutions to this crisis, yet it is nowhere to be seen in the Muslim world. We sit and watch the world economy fail with untold misery to a large percentage of the world population. Furthermore, the Muslim world may see their economies crushed under the falling ‘sick-man’ of the United States. Clearly, our corrupt rulers are part of the problem. Instead of paving the road to the Khilafah these puppets are propping up the system! For example, in late 2007, UAE provided a $7.5 billion bail-out to Citibank.

It is time for the Muslim world to liberate itself from this failed system, establish the Khilafah and implement the Islamic economy, that provides an inherently more stable and just system, which will be a model for the whole world. We must work to re-establish the Khilafah based on the Prophet’s (saw) method, which involves the Islamic culturing, the interaction with the Ummah so that it adopts the Islamic thoughts and emotions, and the call to the people of power to implement Islam.

Islam: The Solution for Humanity’s Problems
Based on the preceding discussion, it is clear that Islam has solutions that are unique and address the human being in a comprehensive manner. Understanding the correct solution enables us to understand how Islam is a way of life in a concrete manner. Such an understanding will help us to train our aqliyyah (intellect) to think according to what Allah (swt) has revealed to us. Furthermore, knowing how Islam solves our problems strengthens our confidence in Islam as a way of life and strengthens our connection with Allah (swt). With such a mindset, we can work with the people around us, Muslims and non-Muslims, to demonstrate how Islam organizes society in a unique way that strikes a balance in a manner guaranteeing happiness and tranquility. The economic crisis is dominating the headlines and is something that is on everyone’s mind. This newsletter gives us some ideas on how the issue can be discussed in a way that invites people to Islam.

May Allah (swt) help us to convey Islam in the appropriate manner and in a manner that pleases Him and Him alone.

"And Allah has full power and control over His Affairs, but most of people know not."
[TMQ 12:21]

Kashmir: Whose Land is it?

The recent murders in Kashmir are a reminder of the plight of Muslims living there. The only solution is to work for the re-establishment of the Khilafah Rashidah in the Muslim lands as it will liberate Kashmir and the rest of the occupied Muslims lands.

Kashmir Valley, the region presently under Indian occupation, has seen a renewed wave of protests. The Muslims have launched the protests because the Indian government had given 100 acres of land to Hindus under the guise of religious rights. Indian troops have killed nearly 40 Muslims since June 2008; most were killed when soldiers opened fire on Muslim protesters demanding an end to Indian rule. The office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights urged a thorough investigation of the killings that have occurred during the unrests. The International Tribune quoted an Indian officer as saying that, “109 [Muslim] activists from the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, an umbrella group of separatist political and religious leaders, have been arrested since the curfew was imposed last Sunday.”

The recent events may seem to indicate that the struggle is new, but this is a struggle that has been ongoing since Britain decided to draw a line on the map which has resulted in years of struggle and bloodshed.

Kashmir – Ceiling of the World
Kashmir covers an area of about 217,935 sq. km., surrounded by Pakistan, India, China and Afghanistan. Its population is 12 million; 85% of them are Muslims, while the remaining 15% comprise of Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists. The Muslims called Kashmir the “ceiling of the world” because of its good climate, abundant forests and the existence of the highest (Himalayan) mountain peaks in the world. Kashmir is a country that is rich with its waters and rivers, because it has the rivers of Sind, Jhelum and Chenab. It is also crossed by the famous Silk Road, and is the only link between China and Pakistan. In 1983, sapphire and ruby were discovered, a matter that increased India’s obstinacy in its occupation and constant domination over its land.

Historical and Political Events
In reality, Kashmir is an Islamic land, which Muslims liberated towards the end of the first Hijri century. This came within the conquests of Sind and Hind at the hands of the Muslim General, Muhammad al-Qasim, which started in 94 AH (712CE). Islam then spread in the remaining parts of the Indian subcontinent in the time of the Abbasid Khalifah, al-Mu’tasim, 218-225 AH (833-839 CE). The authority of Islam continued in Kashmir and the whole subcontinent, which is known today as India, Pakistan, Kashmir and Bangladesh.

The British invaded the Indian subcontinent in 1819, where it was faced with strong resistance from the Muslims. The war continued with alternating successes between the Islamic authority in the subcontinent and the invading British with help from some Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and others. Britain could not achieve stability and control over it except after 27 years of vigorous wars with the Muslims. In 1846, Kashmir was leased to a Hindu feudalist for 100 years, in accordance with a lease contract signed in Amritsar.

Why Two Kashmirs?
Shortly after 1947, the unification of three provinces - Hyderabad, Jonagra and Kashmir to Pakistan had been obstructed because the governors of Hyderabad and Jonagra were Muslims, while the majority of their population was Hindu, so they were annexed to India. However, the majority of Kashmir was Muslim and its governor was Hindu, yet it was annexed to India as well. The bias of the British towards the Hindus was the factor that enabled India to annex the three provinces, including Kashmir. This led to many wars with India’s Hindus on one side, and the Muslims of Pakistan and Kashmir on the other. In the end, India occupied two thirds of Kashmir (65%), while another part (30%) remained with the Pakistani side; China took over (5%) of Kashmir. The side under Pakistani rule is known as “Azzad Kashmir” while the side under Indian rule is known as “Jammu and Kashmir”. This remains the current situation of Kashmir.

Atrocities Committed Against Muslims
The Hindu Maharaja who governed Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with the lease contract made with the British had used all types of tyranny and torture against Muslims to the extent that one of its ministers had resigned because of the horrible crimes committed by the rule of the Maharaja. The minister had declared that the people of Kashmir were herded like cattle, and that they were oppressed without their voices being heard.

The rulers in Jammu and Kashmir used to debase Muslims sanctities such as the Glorious Quran and the mosques as witnessed in 1931, when one of the Hindu security officers defiled the Glorious Quran – the incident that led to the breakout of the Muslims uprising.

In 1989, India committed massacres in Kashmir that resulted in the murder of 25,000 Muslims. Indian authorities have continued their aggression and unleashed their hatred on our brothers and sisters in the subsequent years. Based on statistics obtained from UN sources, Indian media, International Media agencies, and Kashmiri sources, the following crimes were committed from January 1990 until December 1998:

• 63,275 were shot
• 775 politicians, ulema and imams were murdered
• 3,370 Muslims were tortured to death
• 81,161 people had been locked in prisons without trial

It was not enough for the oppressors to physically eliminate the Muslims as they also tried to remove Islam from the hearts and minds of those who remained. The authorities embarked on the discontinuation of the teaching of Quran and the Arabic language in state schools, and alternatively began teaching the Hindi language as a compulsory language. Then they used the media for carrying out intensive campaigns against the Islamic values of family, women’s dress, promotion of alcohol and mixed marriages between Muslims and Hindus.

Where is the help of our Muslim rulers?
One would think that with Pakistan bordering Kashmir and being a Muslim country that their assistance would have been immediate and similar to the heroic support of Muslim leaders of the past. The reason behind the loss of Kashmir and the abandonment of its Muslims does not come from the weakness of Muslims in Pakistan. It is rather due to the fact that the rulers of Pakistan are agents to America, which made them, give to India continuous concessions regarding Kashmir. General Ayub Khan waged a war in 1965 because of Kashmir, but he surrendered to India three rivers that were Pakistan’s share. As regards to Yahya Khan and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, in 1971 they lost East Pakistan which became Bangladesh. At the time of Zia ul Haq, the Indians occupied the mounts of Siachen. At the time of Nawaz Sharif, in 1999, the mujahideen and the Pakistani army were deprived of keeping Kargil heights after Muslims were about to realize victory. However, in compliance with US orders, Nawaz Sharif gave his orders to the army and the fighters to withdraw.

During the rule of Musharraf, for the first time in the long struggle to liberate Kashmir, he dared to publicly abandon the goal to give the people of Kashmir the right to free themselves from Indian oppression. Prior to Musharraf, not a single ruler in Pakistan dared to speak about a solution for Kashmir that recognized Indian rule over the territory. Rather, all proposals mandated that all of Kashmir becomes independent from India.

Sincere Leadership: The Only Solution
Given that one Pakistani ruler after another has been an agent of the West, we cannot rely on them to liberate Kashmir. They will eventually fade away in history and leave all that they fought so hard to keep for themselves. Allah (swt) says:

“How many of gardens and springs that they [Fir'aun's people] left behind, and green crops (fields) and goodly places, and comforts of life wherein they used to take delight!”
[TMQ 44:25-27]

It is only through sincere leadership – one that fears Allah (swt) that there will be any reprieve.

How can we put an end to the treacheries of these Muslim rulers against the Muslims of Kashmir while living here in Canada?

Contact your friends and family and explain to them that the only solution for Kashmir is the re-establishment of the Khilafah in the Muslim lands. Explain to them the hadith of the Prophet (saw):

"Behold, the imam is but a shield from behind which the people fight and by which they protect themselves."
[Muslim]

Discuss with Muslims that the issue of Kashmir is a reminder to us that this world is a testing ground from Allah (swt) for those who claim that they are believers:

“Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: ‘We believe,’ and will not be tested. And We indeed tested those who were before them.”
[TMQ 29:1-2]

And the only way to hope for success in these testing times is to please Allah (swt) by undertaking what He has commanded which includes the work that is necessary to re-establish the Khilafah. This work can only be based on the Quran and Sunnah and thus the method must be according to the method that the Prophet (saw) undertook when he established the first Islamic State in Medina.

Explain to them that the obligation to re-establish the Khilafah is on each and every Muslim’s shoulder until it has been accomplished. The Prophet (saw) said:

“And whosoever dies without having a Bai’ah upon his neck (i.e. without a system of Bai’ah existing), he dies the death of Jahiliyyah.”
[Muslim]

Remind Muslims that Kashmir is an Islamic land. The Khilafah had liberated it in the first Hijri century; it can again bring back the authority of Islam to Kashmir. Furthermore, it can remove the oppression, tyranny and barbaric practices against Muslims wherever they are in the world.

The Muslim lands have the resources necessary for the Khilafah Rashidah to deliver the Ummah from the disasters that fall upon it day and night, not only at the hands of foreign occupiers, but also at the hands of its puppet rulers.

Muslims everywhere are capable of igniting once again the torch of goodness, and raising high the banner of Khilafah, the banner of La ilaha illa Allah Muhammadun Rasulu Allah.

“O you who believe! If you help (in the cause of) Allah, He will help you, and make your foothold firm”
[TMQ 47:7]

87 Years since the Khilafah was Destroyed

On the 28th of Rajab 1342 AH, corresponding to the 3rd March 1924 CE, the Khilafah was destroyed at the hands of the colonial powers with the assistance of collaborators such as Mustafa Kemal. Allah (swt) has obligated us to rule by His Law and ordered us to shield the Ummah with the Khilafah state. As an Ummah, we must strive for the return of the Khilafah using the Prophet’s (saw) method of engaging the thoughts and emotions of Muslims and obtaining nusra (support) from the people of power in the Muslim lands.

Next week on the 28th of Rajab, the Ummah will mark the 87th anniversary of the fall of the Khilafah. We should use this anniversary as a reminder of our obligation – as an Ummah – to resume the Islamic way of life through the re-establishment of the Khilafah.

Since the abolishment of the Khilafah in 1342/1924, the Ummah has witnessed a succession of despotic rulers whose sole concern has been to please their Western masters. These dictators, the Assads, Mubaraks, and Musharrafs of this Ummah, are eagerly financed, armed, and supported by the parliaments of North America and Europe to ensure that this Ummah remains under the heel of Western colonialism and imperialism.

Furthermore, only after the fall of the Khilafah did the West plot to implant “a foreign body”, namely Israel, into the Muslim lands. As British Prime Minister Campbell Bannerman noted in 1902, “a foreign body should be planted in the heart of this nation [i.e. the Khilafah] to prevent the convergence of its wings in such a way that it could exhaust its powers in never-ending wars. It could also serve as a springboard for the West to gain its coveted objects”. The creation of Israel only occurred after the Khilafah fell and has been, in fact, just another tool (in addition to the installation of tyrant rulers) of the West in subjecting the Ummah to colonization and oppression.

Lack of Islamic Leadership: The Critical Issue
In this era where the Ummah is in state of subjugation and poverty, sincere members of this Ummah have attempted to identify the root causes of the problem. Some may say the Ummah lacks resources and economic power. However, these are not the root causes of the problem; rather they are only symptoms of the larger problem. From a resources perspective, we are well aware that approximately 60% of the world’s energy resources reside in the Muslim lands. Furthermore, if we analyze Pakistan – just one of the 54 “state-lets” that the Ummah was dismembered into – we find that it possesses land area of both France and Britain combined. Pakistan also has the 6th largest population in the world: larger than the combined populations of Russia, Britain and France. The Islamic Lands together contain more than 18 times more oil than the Western countries. Furthermore, uniting the armies of Muslim countries such as Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Indonesia, Syria, Saudi Arabia and Morocco would gather over 3 million soldiers – more than 20 times larger than the American forces in Iraq. As a result, the resources (i.e. wealth of people, minerals, and land mass) are squarely located in the Muslim world. One may ask, if there is an abundance of resources then why do we find the Ummah in economic difficulty? The economic problems are linked to the lack of leadership. The current rulers do not govern this wealth according to the book of Allah (swt). They instead govern it based on the dictates of their American and European masters.

Thus, the real issue is not a want of resources or a troubled economy but a want of Islamic leadership. What we lack is the shield that RasulAllah (saw) prescribed for us to use to protect ourselves. The shield is described in the following hadith:

“Indeed, the Imam (Khaleefah) is a shield, from behind whom you fight and by whom you are protected.” [Muslim]

Allah (swt) has made it an obligation on us to refer solely to the Quran and the Sunnah of His beloved Messenger in matters of ruling, economy, and settling the affairs of the people. As long as we tolerate the rule of the despots all over the Muslim world – who do not rule by what Allah (swt) has revealed – we can only expect our present-day condition to persist. Allah (swt) has revealed:

"And rule between them by that which Allah has revealed and follow not their vain desires, but beware that they may turn you away from some of what Allah has revealed." [TMQ 5:49]

Re-establishing the Khilafah – a comprehensive system of governance, education, courts, and other societal institutions which are based on the Quran and Sunnah in the Muslim lands – is the only way of bringing Islam back into our daily lives, free from the influence and dominance of kufr.

Khilafah: One of the Highest Obligations
The fardiyah (obligation) of Khilafah is well known to the Ummah, but some may consider it a low priority. Allah (swt) has revealed:

"And no, by your Lord, they will not believe until they refer to your judgment in all disputes between them then find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission." [TMQ 4:65]

This means that if we differ on an issue – such as the priority level of the Khilafah – we must refer to the Quran and Sunnah to resolve our disagreement.

By the mercy of Allah (swt), the Shariah has identified certain issues as “vital issues”; i.e. matters of life and death for the Ummah. If such issues are not attended to, then the Ummah’s existence is at stake.

According to the Quran and Sunnah, when a hadith or ayat refers to taking of life, it signifies a vital issue. That is, the life of the human being is sacred and can only be violated under very specific circumstances. On the authority of Ibn Mas’ud who narrated that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said:

“The blood of a Muslim person who professes that there is no god but Allah and that I am the messenger of Allah is not violable except in three instances: the adulterer, the slayer of another person and the apostate who abandons the group.” [Bukhari]

Islam has made the unity of the Islamic Ummah and the unity of the State as one of the vital issues. This is manifested in two cases: plurality of Khulafaa’ and rebellion against the Islamic State. Muslim reported on the authority of Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-’ Aas that he heard the Messenger of Allah (saw) say: “He who pledged his Bay’ ah (oath) to an Imam giving him the clasp of his hand and the fruit of his heart shall obey him as long as he can, and if another comes to dispute with him, you must strike the neck of that man.”

It has also been reported on the authority of Abu Said Al-Khudri that the Messenger of Allah (saw) said:

“If a Bay’ah has been taken for two Khaleefah’s, kill the latter of them.” [Muslim]

Hence, he (saw) made the unity of the State a vital issue when he prohibited the plurality of the Khulafaa’ and ordered the death penalty for the one who insists (i.e. after being advised against it) on establishing multiple leaders within the Islamic State. It has also been reported on the authority of Arfaja who said: ‘I heard the Messenger of Allah (saw) say:

“He who comes to you while your affair has been united under one man, intending to drive a wedge between you or fragment your group (Jama’ ah), kill him.” [Muslim]

Now that the Islamic State no longer exists, these ahadith indicate the level of priority we must give to ensure that the Islamic State is united. That is, we must understand that the unity of the State and that of the Ummah is a “life and death matter” and therefore we must exert our utmost effort to re-establish the Khilafah using the Prophet’s method, which is solely based on discussion and intellectual interaction.

The Return of the Khilafah
The current era of tyrannical rule over the Ummah was prophesized by Prophet Muhammad (saw) in the famous hadith narrated by Imam Ahmed (rh) where: “…there will be dictatorships that will last as long as Allah is willing.” However, the same hadith predicts that (after this tyrannical era): “…then there will be a Khilafah on the way of the Prophethood.”

More importantly, Allah (swt) has promised victory to the Ummah. As Allah (swt) has revealed:

"Allah has promised such of you who believe and do good deeds that He will surely make them to succeed (the present rulers) in the earth even as He caused those before them to succeed (others); and He will surely establish for them their religion which He has approved for them, and will give in exchange safety after their fear". [TMQ 24:55]

Allah (swt) never fails in His promise. However, this does not give us the excuse to sit back and wait for the Khilafah. Instead we must reflect on the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and follow his method in establishing the Khilafah, which includes culturing, interacting with society, and seeking the nusra (support). As a result, we must culture ourselves as the Sahabah did in Dar-Al-Arqam in order to rid ourselves of the influences of Capitalism and adopt the measures of halal and haram in our decision making. We must also work with the Ummah to convince her that Islam is the sole source of legislation and that Islam alone is sufficient: we do not need the ideas of Karl Marx, Adam Smith, or Barack Obama. Finally, we must work to convince the people of influence in the Muslim lands to give the nusra to Islam – just as the Ansar gave nusra to Islam. Only intellectual means (e.g. discussion, leaflets, conferences, etc) can be used in the struggle to re-establish Khilafah, as RasulAllah (saw) forbade the Sahabah from using armed struggle in establishing the Islamic State. He (saw) also did not participate in the political system of the Quraish: Dar-al Nadwa. Therefore, we are also forbidden from work through the political systems that are currently in place. If our goal is to implement the Deen of Allah (swt), we must take the Quran and Sunnah as a reference point instead our own desires.

May Allah (swt) grant this Ummah victory, so that we may worship Him as He has ordained us to worship.

"And say: Truth has come, and falsehood has vanished away. Lo! Falsehood is ever bound to vanish".
[TMQ 17:81]

Carbon Tax: A Band-Aid Solution?

The BC Provincial Government introduced the “carbon-tax” in the month of July. Proponents argue that the tax will help “save” the environment. The tax will make pollutants more expensive. However, the real problem is the Capitalist way of thinking that promotes an individualistic outlook to life that is focused on consumption and inevitably leads to the destruction of the environment. Islam is the only system with a comprehensive approach to life that can achieve both a harmonious world in this life and salvation in the Afterlife.

The Province of British Columbia introduced the “carbon-tax” in the month of July. Proponents of the tax argue that this will make the consumption of carbon based fuel more expensive and thereby force consumers to seek “environmentally friendly” alternatives. According to the CBC, gas prices will increase by 2.4 cents a litre, while heat fuel will increase by 2.8 cents a litre. By 2012, the carbon tax will cost 7.24 cents per litre at the pump. The CBC also reported that “to soften the impact of the carbon tax, the government gave a $100 climate action dividend to each British Columbian”.

Although some environmental groups support such legislation, others find it problematic. Some critics claim that the tax will favour the rich while punishing the poor. Others see it simply as a way for the government to increase taxes under the guise of environmental concerns.

Impact of Capitalism on the Environment
The discussion regarding carbon-tax is part of a larger debate within Capitalist societies on how to manage the devastation that their way of life is bringing to the environment. However, what is missing in the debate is an assessment of how the Capitalist mindset itself is largely responsible for these problems.

The Capitalists believe that happiness is achieved by maximizing pleasure through the acquisition and consumption of material goods. As a result of this idea, they believe that the economy should be focused on the maximization of production to satisfy the desires of man.

In order to feed the cycle of production and consumption, the environment must be stripped of its resources at an unsustainable rate. In addition, companies must maximize profits by cutting corners when it comes to maintaining environmental standards. They will engage in activities that are profitable, but wasteful. For example, General Motors, Firestone Tire, Standard Oil of California and Phillips Petroleum bought and dismantled street-car systems in 45 cities in the US – in the hopes that consumers would buy cars, gas, and tires. Although these companies made large profits by selling more goods, the reality is that such a move was detrimental to the environment as it poured into the streets thousands of cars that not only spewed pollution, but also required the unnecessary extraction of rubber, iron, etc. to build these cars, tires, etc.

The environmental devastation caused by the Capitalists should not be a surprise to Muslims, as Allah (swt) warned us that applying a ruling system other than Allah’s (swt) will cause the spread of corruption on earth:

“Corruption has appeared in the land and the sea on account of what the hands of men have wrought, that He may make them taste a part of that which they have done, so that they may return.” [TMQ 30:41]

Al-Jalalayn’s tafsir of this ayah states: “Corruption has appeared on land, in the wastelands, because of the rain being withheld and the vegetation diminishing, and on sea, in lands near rivers because of their waters diminishing, because of what people’s hands have perpetrated, of acts of disobedience”. Therefore, implementation of a non-Islamic system will result in environmental catastrophes.

Islam: Multi-Faceted approach to the Environment
Islam has the inherent capacity to deal with issues such as the environment, because its thoughts, systems, and solutions are from Allah (swt), the Creator of the Heavens and Earth. Allah (swt) has revealed:

“We sent our messengers supported by clear proofs, and we sent down to them the scripture and the law, that the people may uphold justice” [TMQ 57:25]

Therefore, the guidance within the ayat and ahadith contain the necessary provisions for us to achieve justice on earth – including how to live in a way that ensures the well being of humanity and the environment. Allah (swt) revealed:

“And We have revealed the Book to you explaining clearly everything, and a guidance and mercy and good news for those who submit.” [TMQ 16:89]

Liberal-democracy or any other man-made system does not have this foresight because the solutions emanating from these systems are limited by the shortcomings of the mind. As a result, they pursue courses of action that lead to disasters, which later have to be fixed via “band-aid solutions”.

As with any other issue, Islam approaches the environment from a multi-faceted perspective, including:

• Establishing an accurate perspective of the worldly life
• Using resources effectively
• Taking care of people, animals and nature

Pleasures are fleeting: All matters return to Allah
In contrast to the Capitalist way of life, the Islamic Aqeedah makes the accountability to Allah (swt) the primary focus of all ideas, actions, and policies. As a result, the believer will strive to ensure that his actions are in-line with what Allah (swt) has revealed.

The Islamic personality is shaped to view things from a perspective of responsibility to Allah (swt). This is due to the fact that we will be held accountable by Allah (swt) for everything we do. Therefore, the Believer does not see this life as solely a place to maximize pleasures. Instead, as Allah (swt) has revealed, we see the world as a test:

“You shall certainly be tried respecting your wealth and your souls.” [TMQ 3:186]

In addition, Allah (swt) has warned us in multiple ayat in the Quran that the worldly life is fleeting:

“Every soul shall taste death. You shall receive your full reward for everything which you have striven for on the Day of Resurrection. Whoever is spared from the fire and is admitted into paradise will have attained the objective of this worldly life; for the life of this world is nothing but an illusory enjoyment.” [TMQ 3:185]

Reflecting on this ayah we realize that what ever we do in this life is temporary. The reality of death casts a shadow over every amusement we can extract from the world. As each day goes by, the Day of Judgment draws closer. Although it is allowed to enjoy what Allah (swt) has made halal, we should not imitate the Capitalist way of life and become obsessed with the consumption of material things. Allah (swt) revealed:

“Then, shall ye be questioned that Day about the joy (you indulged in!)” [TMQ 102:8]

Islam: Effective use of resources
Given that we work in this life to please Allah (swt), we must obey Allah (swt) in all matters – even those commands that pertain to taking care of the environment. This is based on the incident that occurred between Sa’d (ra) and Rasulullah (saw) regarding the use of water and wudu:

“Allah’s Messenger (saw) appeared while Sa‘d was taking the ablutions. When he saw that Sa‘d was using a lot of water, he intervened saying: ‘What is this? You are wasting water.” Sa‘d replied asking: “Can there be wastefulness while taking the ablutions?” To which Allah’s Messenger replied: “Yes, even if you take them on the bank of a rushing river.” [Ibn Majah]

Based on this hadith, it is haram to waste water or any other resource. As a result, industries within the Islamic State must ensure that they do not waste resources and instead use them efficiently.

Although we should spend on our families and ourselves, the focus of our resources should be attaining the akhira:

“But seek the abode of the Hereafter in that which Allah has given you, and do not neglect your portion of worldly life, and be kind even as Allah has been kind to you, and seek not corruption in the earth.” [TMQ 28:77]

Islam Governance: People, animals, and nature
All Muslims within an Islamic State are responsible in varying degrees. However, the Khaleefah has overall responsibility of the people. The Prophet (saw) said:

“Each of you is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock. The leader is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock” [Bukhari]

This hadith in conjunction with the Shari’ah principle “no harming and no self-inflicted harm” obligates the Khaleefah to actively review industrial standards and ensure that resource extraction (e.g. mining) and waste management (e.g. elimination of industrial metal working) do not cause harm to the people or the environment in which people live in. In contrast to democratic governments, who pay little attention to environmental and health studies, the Khaleefah would have to investigate such matters and make the necessary adjustments to the production process to eliminate the harm to people and the environment.

With respect to economy, the focus in Islam is ensuring the proper distribution of wealth. Therefore, the economic policy of the Khilafah State will not work to strip the environment of all that it has. Instead policies will be implemented that will facilitate the distribution of existing wealth.

As Muslims, the protection of animals is also a part of our deen. The Prophet Muhammad (saw) said:

"A woman was punished (by God) because of (her cruelty toward) a cat. She had neither provided her with food nor drink, nor set her free so that she might eat the creatures of the earth." [Muslim]

Furthermore, it is encouraged to be kind towards animals:

"Is there a reward for us in helping (or being kind to) animals?" He replied: "Yes, there is a reward for helping any (living creature)." [Bukhari]

As a result, the protection of the habitat of animals is something that the Islamic State will actively work to protect. Even in the time of war, Abu Bakr (ra) gave the following advice to his armies: “Do not cut down fruit-bearing trees. Do not destroy an inhabited place. Do not slaughter [animals] except for food. Do not [harm] honey bees” [Al-Muwatta]

The need for new leadership
The challenge of the environment is yet another issue that requires Islamic leadership. The culmination of such leadership can be seen during the Khilafah of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (ra) who said: “If an animal were to trip and fall I fear Allah will account me for it.”

What is amazing to consider is that this leadership emerged over a thousand years ago – simply based on the alignment of society with what Allah (swt) revealed.

Only through the re-establishment of the Khilafah, and the implementation of Islam can we work to address issues such as the environment, poverty and injustice

“In the hereafter there will be either severe punishment or forgiveness from Allah and His good pleasure. The life of this world is nothing but an illusion.”
[TMQ 57:20]

Iraq: The 51st State?

The United States have planned for a permanent presence in Iraq. They not only want to establish military bases but are also positioning themselves to be above the rule of law. This situation is a replay of the Anglo-Iraqi treaty of the 1930s. The actions of the American government clearly illustrate their desire to rule the Muslim world. It is an obligation (fardh) on all Muslims to work to resume the Islamic way of life by re-establishing the Khilafah Rashidah in the Muslim lands. Only through the Khilafah will we have the ability to be free from foreign influence and occupation.

A recent article in the Independent exposed the American government’s desire to sign an agreement with the Iraqi government allowing not only the establishment of 58 permanent bases within Iraq but also the authority to, “... conduct military operations, arrest Iraqis and enjoy immunity from Iraqi law…” Washington is urging Baghdad to sign the agreement by July 31st of this year in order to replace the U.N mandate that now authorizes the American occupation. If Iraq complies it would be relieved of Security Council sanctions and would benefit from continued American military and economic aid. Also, as much as $50 billion in blocked assets dating back to the first Gulf war would be released, which is currently being held by the U.S Federal Reserve Bank in New York.

Through this agreement Washington seeks to ensure that it retains its grip on this strategically valuable country which is also full of resources. Amidst the public outcry against such actions, the American government is scrambling to save face and cast ambiguity over their true intentions within the region.

This agreement is not the first time the Muslims in Iraq have conceded power to foreign authority. In 1930, the British set up a similar agreement with the then Iraqi government. As a New York Times article stated, that treaty closely resembles the agreement that the U.S. is currently attempting to pursue. Under the 1930 pact, Iraq had to consult Britain on security issues and allow them to use Iraqi airports, ports, railways and rivers. Two major military bases were leased to the British, who were empowered to station their forces throughout Iraq. British personnel were also granted immunity from local prosecution.

Why is Iraq Important?
Since it is clear that both of the recent powers – Britain and the United States are very interested in maintaining a presence in Iraq, the question that begs to be answered is what makes this area so important? The standard argument is that it has everything to do with oil. While controlling oil is an important factor, there are other factors at play:
• Water - Both the Tigris and Euphrates rivers flow through Iraq; thus, of all the countries in that region of the world, Iraq controls a critical part of strategic water resources.
• Geopolitics - Iraq is also situated in a very strategic location. It borders Iran, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Syria, and Turkey, and it has a small coastline on the Persian Gulf. It is within missile-striking distance of both Israel and the former Soviet Union.
Altogether, whoever controls Iraq holds the key to the Middle East. Therefore, any country that wants to have a firm foothold in Muslim lands would likely attempt to control Iraq.

Beyond Iraq
A cursory look into the world news would reveal that American troops are stationed not only in Iraq but in most Muslim countries. This situation is not accidental but rather an intentional policy that dates back 25 years. Jimmy Carter in his State of the Union Address on January 23rd 1980, stated that the United States would use military force if necessary to defend its national interests in the Persian Gulf region. The doctrine was a response to the 1979 invasion of Afghanistan by the Soviet Union. Carter proclaimed, “Let our position be absolutely clear: An attempt by any outside force to gain control of the Persian Gulf region will be regarded as an assault on the vital interests of the United States of America, and such an assault will be repelled by any means necessary, including military force.” Carter established the Rapid Deployment joint Task Force (RDJTF) and gave it the responsibility for combat operations in the Gulf. Three years later, Ronald Reagan elevated the RDJTF, naming it Central Command.

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) is a Unified Combatant Command unit of the U.S. armed forces, under the operational control of the U.S. Secretary of Defence. Its area of responsibility is in the Middle East, East Africa and Central Asia. CENTCOM’s coverage extends to 27 countries – 26 of which are located in Muslim lands! Today, however, it is not sufficient that the United States have bases in all these countries. It wants to continue to tighten its iron grip in the region:
• In Pakistan, the US army planned to increase the number of soldiers this year.
• In Africa, US bases are to focus on Uganda, Djibouti, Senegal, São Tomé and Príncipe, where flexible, small-scale "jumping off points" either exist or are to be built.
• Differing reports have recently been released about the potential expansion of the US airbase in Kyrgyzstan.

Why the presence?
What could be the purpose for the U.S in spending billions of dollars building bases in the Muslim lands where there is little or no public support for their presence?

The presence of bases worldwide, will allow America to act or react quickly to any situation that could potentially affect its interests across the region. It would allow them to mobilise a military plan immediately. This was seen in the 2003 invasion of Iraq, when the U.S used bases set up in Qatar as its central command to coordinate its attack.

So what could potentially harm U.S. interests? Let us examine what the Western powers say:
• In 2005 Donald Rumsfeld stated, "Iraq would serve as the base of a new Islamic caliphate to extend throughout the Middle East, and which would threaten legitimate governments in Europe, Africa and Asia. This is their plan. They have said so. We make a terrible mistake if we fail to listen and learn."
• In 2006, at a press conference at the White House, President Bush spoke of a "world in which extremists are trying to intimidate rational people in order to topple moderate governments and to extend the caliphate." Referring to the American presence in the Middle East, he said, "And they want us to leave. And they want to topple government. They want to extend an ideological caliphate…”
From Rumsfeld’s and Bush’s words, it is clear that America understands that the re-establishment of the Khilafah (Caliphate) is not a “pipe dream” but an ever-nearing reality. America and her allies are not waging a war on terror but rather a war against the Islamic political system of Khilafah. The Khilafah will allow the population of the area to exercise real authority over the lands and prevent the interference of western colonial powers in its affairs. As a result, it is clear that America must ensure by any means necessary that the Muslims are unable (even though they desire) to unite and live under Islamic rule as they once did 84 years ago.

What Now?
The fact that the American bases exist in the Muslim lands is due to the complacency and co-operation of the so-called Muslim rulers. Only through the Khilafah can we have a ruler who will act independently of foreign influence and in the interests of the Ummah by enacting the Islamic ruling (hukm shar’i). This Islamic system would bring liberation from foreign occupation, end economic exploitation and end political domination.

Allah (swt) has obligated (made it a fardh) to re-establish the Khilafah. The Prophet (saw) said:

“…whoso dies while there was no allegiance on his neck dies a death of the days of ignorance” [Muslim]

Thus, the Prophet (saw) made it compulsory that every Muslim should have a pledge of allegiance (baya) on his or her neck. He described the person who dies without a pledge of allegiance on his neck as dying a death of the days of ignorance, i.e. prior to Islam. The pledge of allegiance is not given to anyone except the Khalifah. Since there is no Khalifah today we must elect a Khalifah. And in order to elect a Khalifah we must have the system – the Khilafah – that would enable us to fulfill this duty.
The work to resume the Islamic way of life must be organized in a group and according to the method of the Prophet (saw). We see that the Prophet (saw) took decisive steps in establishing the Islamic State:

1. Private Call – In the initial years the Prophet (saw) would invite to Islam those people who he knew personally. When they accepted Islam, he would spend some time culturing them with the thoughts of Islam and establishing in them an Islamic personality that would enable them to carry the message of Islam despite any barriers or obstacles that lay in their path.
2. Public Call – The Prophet (saw) was ordered by Allah (swt) to invite people to Islam publicly. It was at this time that the Prophet (saw) along with the core group of Muslims (the Sahabah) undertook the task of engaging in discussion and dialogue with the masses. Not only did they discuss the issues surrounding the rituals of Islam, but they also discussed the weaknesses of the Quraysh system. In effect, the Prophet (saw) and the Sahabah created a political vacuum by exposing the flaws, limitations and contradictions of the current system while presenting Islam as the solution.
3. Seeking of Nusra – After years of public interaction with the Quraysh, and after enduring their propaganda, torture and boycott, Allah (swt) ordered the Prophet (saw) to seek Nusra (material support) from the people of power. The Prophet (saw) along with Abu Bakr (ra) began to meet the tribal leaders. Abu Bakr with his knowledge of lineage would assess the tribes in terms of their power and strength. The Prophet (saw) would then invite them to Islam and seek from them the support to rule in the area that they controlled. The Prophet (saw) discussed with many tribes until he met with the Aws and Khazraj – 2 tribes from Medina that gave him the Nusrah and support to establish the Islamic State.

Hizb-ut-Tahrir has taken it upon itself to work for the resumption of the Islamic way of life by re-establishing the Khilafah on the way of the Prophethood in the Muslim lands. It has been 84 years since the destruction of the Khilafah in Istanbul. The duty to re-establish the Khilafah in the Muslim lands has yet to be fulfilled and its accomplishment requires the effort of all Muslims be they living in the East or West to fulfill this duty.

We often read many stories from the Seerah about the Sahabah and the Tabi’een and imagine ourselves in their time, wishing to be at the forefront of establishing the roots of Islam. That time is upon us again as the Muslim Ummah is without a ruler and system that will replace the shackles of oppression with the salvation and justice of Islam.

Oh Muslims! Answer the call to that which gives you life.

The only saying of the faithful believers, when they are called to Allâh (His Words, the Qur'ân) and His Messenger (saw) to judge between them, is that they say: "We hear and we obey." And such are the successful (who will live forever in Paradise).
[TMQ 24:51]

Islam & Food Security

Rising food prices have had a dramatic impact on the world’s poor. This has resulted in anger, violence, and protests around the globe. The factors that have caused this problem are many, but the underlying cause is one: the Capitalist system. Only Islam has the ability to ensure food security for all people, as its solutions are from Allah (swt).

Rising food prices have sparked outrage across the world. The United Nations World Food Programme, which provides food aid to over 70 million people, says that the rise in prices of cereals and fuel caused it to increase its budget for 2008 by 17% – from $2.9 billion to $3.4 billion. Spokesperson Christiane Berthiaume says that people living close to the poverty line, who previously struggled to survive, could very soon find that prices are simply impossibly high. The food crisis has had the following impact around the world:

1. Egypt: Workers rioted for 2 days, where protesters threw petrol bombs at security forces and police fired tear gas at the crowds. When workers attempted to strike as a protest against the high prices, plainclothes security men took control of the factory and forced them to work.
2. Bangladesh: About 20,000 textile workers have clashed with police near Dhaka, Bangladesh's capital, demanding better wages to meet high food prices. In a recent press conference, the World Bank President Robert Zoellick stated: "In Bangladesh a two-kilogramme bag of rice...now consumes about half the daily income of a poor family".
3. Indonesia: Protesters demanded that the government bring down food prices after the media reported cases of starvation. It is estimated that Bangladeshis and poor Indonesians are now spending 70% or more of their income on food.
4. Haiti: Food prices rose over 40% in one year, resulting in 10 days of violent protest and the ousting of the Haitian Prime Minister.

Unrest has also occurred in Mexico, the Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Mauritania, Mozambique, Senegal, Uzbekistan, Yemen, and Bolivia.


Food Crisis: Who’s to Blame?
Due to the widespread nature of the problem, it is only natural to examine the role of global policies in causing this crisis. Politicians, analysts, etc are blaming the following:

1. Bio-fuels: World Bank President, Alistair Darling (Chancellor of UK) and Heidemarie Wieczorek-Zeul (German Development Minister) blamed the rising food prices on the shift in agricultural production from food to bio-fuels (i.e. fuels made from plant sources). The German Minister stated that “increasing production of bio-fuels was 30 to 70% responsible for the rapid rise in food prices”.
2. Rising fuel costs: John Holmes, a UN official, blamed rising fuel costs; “The rising price of fuel, particularly diesel fuel used to transport food, is also adding to the issue by prompting a simultaneous increase in the cost of food.”
3. Falling US Dollar: Unlike Canada, developing countries have not let their currencies rise, in order to ensure that their exports continue to be sold in the American market. This makes US dollar denominated items (e.g. fuel) even more expensive to buy.
4. Growth in India and China: The exponential economic growth due to foreign investments in India and China has increased demand for goods, thereby pushing up prices.
5. Investor speculation in commodities: Jose Graziano, a UN official noted that, "The lack of confidence in the (U.S.) dollar has led investment funds to look for higher returns in commodities ... first metals and then foods"

Holding Capitalism Accountable
Although the individual factors cited above could likely be responsible, the real issue is examining why such policies are pursued in the first place. The prime concern of the Capitalist economic system is to ensure that man’s freedom of acquiring and selling is guaranteed. As a result, if the investor wants to invest in fuel production instead of food production – then the system must ensure that he is “free” to make that choice without interference. The same thought process underlies the issue of speculation in commodities. Investors will move money from stocks and bonds to wheat, corn, and rice – if they believe they can make more money on rising food prices.

As a result, the current food crisis is a source of celebration for agribusinesses and other corporations. In other words, Capitalism is working as it was designed to – the increase in hunger is not something that the system attends to or cares about. Ensuring food security has no relevance to this mindset. Its sole concern is maximizing profits.


Islam and Food Security
Allah (swt) has revealed:

“We sent aforetime our messengers with Clear Signs and sent down with them the Book and the Balance (of Right and Wrong), that men may stand forth in justice” [TMQ Hadid 57:25]

Observing the food crisis unfolding over our Ummah and much of humanity, we should recognize that this situation is firstly caused by following a law and system that has not been revealed by Allah (swt). As Allah (swt) has revealed:

“The Deen before Allah is Islam” [TMQ 3:19]

We are aware Allah (swt) is the Creator of all reality. He (swt) created humans, their need for food and also the means and resources, such as plants, animals, etc, to satisfy their hunger. Therefore, only Allah (swt) is qualified to design a system that will ensure the food security of humanity. Subsequently we should not be surprised that the current state of affairs is unfolding, as the secular Capitalist system is man-made and therefore incapable of dealing with the task of ensuring humanity’s well-being.

As a result, when we examine the Quran and Sunnah, we find that Allah (swt) has prescribed many ahkam (laws) that would ensure food security for humanity. These ahkam specify responsibilities of the state, responsibilities of the community, and the responsibilities of the individual.

The Khaleefah is in general responsible for those under his guardianship. Rasullah (saw) said:
“Each of you is a shepherd, and all of you are responsible for your flocks.” [Bukhari, Muslim]

It is the responsibility of the ruler to guarantee housing, clothing and food for every single citizen of the Islamic state, based on the following hadith:

"The Son of Adam has no better right than that he would have a house wherein he may live, a piece of clothing whereby he may hide his nakedness and a piece of bread and some water." [Tirmidhi]

Consequently, the ruler will be diligent in applying the ahkam that pertain to economy, as this will be his best defense on the Day of Judgment. That is, the ahkam of Allah (swt) will address the issue of food security. Some examples include:

1. "Muslims are partners in three things: in water, pastures and fire" [Abu Dawud]. Muslims have common ownership of pastures and water –the fundamental resources required to produce food. All energy resources are also owned by the people. This means that no individual or company can monopolize its benefits/profits.
2. Land cannot remain idle. Landowners must ensure that their lands remain productive and do not stay idle. If they fail to use the land within 3 years, it is given to someone who will use it. This is based on the ijma of the sahabah (i.e. who acted on sunnah of the Prophet (saw) without mentioning it) on the saying of Umar ibn Al-Khattab (ra): “The one who circles a land has no right in it after 3 years.”
3. Prohibition on price-fixing. In era of rising food prices, the State is forbidden from fixing prices based on the following narrated by Imam Ahmed (ra): “Prices increased at the time of the Messenger of Allah (saw), so they said, O Messenger of Allah, we wish you would price (fix the prices). He (saw) said: “Indeed Allah is the Creator, the holder (Qabidh), the Open-handed (Basit), the Provider (Raziq), the Pricer (who fixes prices); and I wish I will meet Allah and nobody demands (complains) of me for unjust acts I did against him, neither in blood or property.” When States do not follow the sunnah of Rasullah (saw), they find that fixing the price of food actually make the food shortage worse, as food retailers hoard their provisions and sell the goods for high prices in the underground market.
4. Hoarding/monopolizing goods is forbidden. Producers or retailers cannot hoard or monopolize goods in order to cause the price to rise. This is based on the ahadith: “The Messenger of Allah (saw) forbade that a foodstuff be monopolized.” [Athram] and “Whoever monopolized is a wrongdoer.” [Muslim].

Under the Khilafah of Umar ibn-al Khattab (ra), Madinah experienced a famine. Umar (ra) ordered his governor of Egypt, ‘Amr bin al-As, to dig a canal from the River Nile to the Red Sea to transport grain to the Arabian Peninsula. Umar did not eat anything more than oil and dry bread until he was sure that everyone in Madinah was full.

The Muslim community is also responsible for ensuring that all people within the community are fed. This is based on the following narration of the Prophet (saw):

“Any community, whosoever they are, if a person among them became hungry, they will be removed from the protection of Allah the Blessed, the Supreme.” [Ahmed]

The implication of this hadith is that if a hungry person stole from the community, then the community would have no recourse to recover that property on the Day of Judgment.

Each Muslim is also responsible for ensuring that their neighbour is fed based on the following hadith:
“The one who slept (satisfied) while his close neighbour was hungry, and he was aware of that, would not have believed in me truly.” [Al-Bazzar]

Beyond the responsibility of ensuring the community is fed, Islam promotes a lifestyle where people eat less (which is in sharp contradiction to the Capitalist way of life that promotes over consumption). Rasullah (saw) said:
“No man fills a container worse than his stomach. A few morsels that keep his back upright are sufficient for him. If he has to, then he should keep one-third for food, one-third for drink and one-third for his breathing." [Tirmidhi]

This sunnah ensures and promotes a wider distribution of food, as individuals are encouraged to eat what is required.


Raising the issue of hunger with non-Muslims
When discussing the issue of food security with the community at large, we should keep in mind that the Islamic solutions can only be applied based on the aqeedah of Islam. That is, the capitalist mindset of cost-benefit is incapable of implementing the hukm of Allah (swt) because it contradicts it at a fundamental level. Capitalism maintains that man is free, making contradictory for the ideology to prescribe ‘fard’, i.e. responsibilities for people. Allah (swt), through the ahkam shariah, is the only One capable of dictating what is an obligation and what is not. In such discussions, we should be confident in raising this issue. That is, the West likes to talk about rights (e.g. the right to food), but shies away from the discussion of who is responsible for providing this right. The Islamic way of thinking makes responsibilities the primary concern for the individual, as he or she will be held accountable by Allah (swt) on the Day of Judgment for fulfilling these.

"And We have not sent you except as a mercy to mankind.” [TMQ 21:107]

86 Years since Khilafah was Destroyed

On the 28th of Rajab 1342AH, corresponding to 3 March 1924CE, the Khilafah was destroyed at the hands of the colonial powers with the assistance of collaborators such as Mustafa Kemal. Allah (swt) has obligated us to rule by His Law and ordered us to shield the Ummah with the Khilafah state. As an Ummah, we must strive for the return of the Khilafah using the Prophet’s (saw) method of engaging the thoughts and emotions of Muslims and obtaining nusra (support) from the people of power in the Muslim land.

Last week on the 28^th of Rajab, the Ummah marked the 86^th anniversary of the fall of the Khilafah. Hizb-ut-Tahrir marked this anniversary by holding conferences throughout the world which included Palestine, Pakistan, Lebanon, Britain, Malyasia, and Indonesia, as a reminder to the Ummah of its obligation to resume the Islamic way of life through the re-establishment of Khilafah.

Since the Khilafah was abolished in 1342/1924, the Ummah has witnessed despotic rulers whose sole concern is to please their Western masters. These dicatators, the Assads, the Mubaraks, the Musharrafs, the Karimovs, of this Ummah, are eagerly financed, armed, and supported by the parliaments of North America and Europe to ensure that this Ummah remains under the heel of Western colonialism and imperialism.

Furthermore, only after the Khilafah fell did the Western plot to implant “a foreign body”, namely Israel, into the Muslim lands. As British Prime Minister Campbell Bannerman noted in 1902,“a foreign body should be planted in the heart of this nation to prevent the convergence of its wings in such a way that it could exhaust its powers in never-ending wars. It could also serve as a springboard for the West to gain its coveted objects”. The creation of Israel only occurred after the Khilafah fell and was another tool (in addition to the tyrant rulers) of the West to subject the Ummah to colonization and oppression.

Lack of Islamic leadership: The Critical Issue

In this era where the rule of Allah (swt) is absent, sincere members of this Ummah have sought a solution and have attempted to identify the root causes of the problem. Some say the Ummah lacks resources and economy. However, these are not the problem – they are only symptoms of a larger problem. From a resources perspective, we are well aware that approximately 60% of the world’s energy resources reside in the Muslim lands. Furthermore, if we analyze Pakistan – just one of the 54 state-lets that the Ummah was dismembered into – we find that it possesses the combined land areas of both France and Britain. Pakistan also has the world's 6^th largest population, larger than Russia, Britain and France. The Islamic Lands contain more than 18 times more oil than the Western countries. Uniting the armies of Muslim countries such as Pakistan, Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Indonesia, Syria, Saudi Arabia and Morocco would combine over 3 million soldiers –more than 20 times larger than the American forces in Iraq. As a result, the real wealth of people, minerals, and lands is squarely located in the Muslim world. The economical problems are linked to the lack of leadership. The current rulers do not govern this wealth according to the book of Allah (swt). They instead govern this wealth based on the dictates of their American and European masters.

As a result, the real issue is not a lack of resources or economy but a lack of Islamic leadership. What we lack is the shield that Rasullah (saw) prescribed for us to use to protect ourselves. The shield is described in the following hadeeth:

“Indeed, the Imam (Khaleefah) is a shield, from behind whom you fight and by whom you are protected.” [Muslim]

Allah (swt) has made an obligation on us to refer solely to His Quran and the Sunnah of the beloved Messenger in matters of ruling, economy, and settling the affairs of the people. As long as we tolerate the rule of the despots all over the Muslim world who do not rule by what Allah (swt) has revealed, we can only expect the dismal condition of the present to continue. Allah (swt) has revealed:

"And rule between them by that which Allah has revealed and follow not their vain desires, but beware that they may turn you away from some of what Allah has revealed." [TMQ 5:49]

Implementing the Khilafah – a comprehensive system of governance, education, courts, and other societal institutions which are based on Qur’an and Sunnah in the Muslim lands – is the only way of bringing Islam back into our daily lives, free from the influence and dominance of kufr.

Khilafah: One of the highest obligations

The fardiyah of khilafah is well known to the Ummah, but some may consider it a lower priority.

Allah (swt) has revealed:

"And no, by your Lord, they will not believe until they refer to your judgment in all disputes between them then find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission." [TMQ 4:65]

This means that if we disagree on an issue – such as the prioritization of the Khalifah – we must refer to the Quran and Sunnah for it contains an answer for all issues.

By the mercy of Allah (swt), the shariah has identified certain issues as “vital issues”; or in other words, life and death issues. If such issues are not attended to, then the Ummah’s existence is at stake.

According to the Quran and Sunnah, when a hadith or ayat refers to taking of life, it signifies a life and death issue. On the authority of Ibn Mas’ ud who said, “ The Messenger of Allah (saw) said

“The blood of a Muslim person who professes that there is no god but Allah and that I am the messenger of Allah is not violable except in three instances: the adulterer, the slayer of another person and the apostate who abandons the group. ” [Bukhari]