Army of Islam: release of BBC reporter secured after Islamic decree by Al Shiekh Salman Al Dayeh

Thursday July 05, 2007 09:44 by IMEMC Staff - IMEMC News

Army of Islam, the group responsible for kidnapping BBC reporter Alan Johnston, said that he was released after it had formed a legislative committee with Al Qassam Brigades headed by Al Shiekh Salman Al Dayeh, which finally decided to release him.

According to a press statement for the Army of Islam, "the committee decision was taken to protect the sanctity of the Islamic blood."

The press statement added that both sides agreed to limit conflict between them, asserting that both groups will continue the resistance without fighting against each other.

In the same statement, the Army of Islam explained that they are not working for any wing, faction or group on the field and that they are not confined to any family or person, stating that it is "an Army for Islam and Muslims. "Army of Islam weapons are to attack Jews, Christians and people who leave their religion," according to the Army statement.

The Army of Islam stated that the motives behind the capture of Alan Johnston were not personal but that they were taken from legislative instructions based on the guidance of the Prophet Mohammad.

The group also reported that unannounced negotiations had been held between several parties to release a number of captive Muslims. These negotiations had achieved progress until the involvement of another party which complicated the situation and prevented their release.

The Army of Islam stated that it will work to ensure the protection of Muslim blood and to cease the bloodshed with no justification. "We've been hurt by the fighting with Al Qassam Brigades, followed by the release of the Christian captive without releasing our detainees. We took this action to protect a great Harm, as it's much more important than achieving benefit," the ِِArmy said.

Translated by - Nisreen Qumsieh

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