Farrakhan calls for Pearl’s release

With the fate of Daniel Pearl, the kidnapped Wall Street Journal reporter, uncertain amidst conflicting reports both of a ransom demand and of his death, a controversial American Muslim leader has added his voice to those calling for the journalist’s release.

Louis Farrakhan, leader of the Nation of Islam, today called for the National Movement for the Restoration of Pakistani Sovereignty to let Pearl go free.

“I wish to offer my sincere prayers and best wishes to my Muslim brothers and their families,” said Farrakhan in a press statement. “May Allah grant you mercy and right guidance in this hour of great trial. I urge the immediate release and safe return of Mr. Daniel Pearl. His release may serve the greater good and promote meaningful dialogue with the American people and government.

“Muslims are known for their compassion and mercy for the human family.
Allah (God) revealed the Qur’an to the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) to serve as a guide in every aspect of human endeavor. Allah teaches and instructs us in the handling of prisoners of war. Allah instructs and teaches us in the handling and treatment of non-combatants. Mr. Pearl is a journalist, is not a combatant, and should be released.

“Our religion, Islam, is under trial. The world is watching. To execute and murder this man will increase hatred for Islam and damage the reputation of Muslims throughout the world. I must also urge the American government to grant P.O.W. (Prisoners of War) status to those captured during a declared war. Once again, I [implore] America to re-examine her foreign policy toward Africa, the Middle East, and other vulnerable nations.

“The United States is the only remaining super power by Allah’s (God’s) permission. America must do more to reassure the family of nations of her determination to promote justice and fair play. The nations of the earth will follow America’s leadership in establishing a century of security, prosperity and peace for all.

An e-mail reportedly sent by Pearl’s kidnappers to news organizations today claimed the American journalist had been killed. It warned that his Islamic abductors were “thirsty for the blood of another American.”