Protest in Saudi Arabia
Photo: AFP
Israeli-Arabs protest Danish cartoons
In demonstration held opposite Denmark's embassy in Tel Aviv, Israeli-Arabs protest publication of cartoons mocking the Prophet Muhammad in Danish paper
Several dozen demonstrators gathered opposite the Danish embassy in Tel Aviv Tuesday to protest cartoons published in Denmark's Jyllands-Posten newspaper four months ago that protesters claim mock the Prophet Muhammad.
Headed by Arab Knesset Members Talab el-Sana and Abdulmalik Dehamshe (United Arab Front), as well as head of the southern wing of the Islamic Movement and party leader Sheikh Ibrahim Sarsur, protesters demanded an official apology from the Danish government, and asked to relay a formal protest letter to the embassy.
Apology
Danish newspaper that published cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad issues apology in wake of mounting Muslim outrage, calls to boycott Denmark
Since the publication of the cartoons, Denmark has apologized for the offense to Muslim sentiments, but nonetheless insisted that the publications were protected by the freedom of speech. Notably Austria, which currently holds the presidency of the European Union, has also accepted this stance.
However, the affair has brought to an escalation in tensions between Copenhagen and several Muslim states, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
"This is a serious insult that may damage relations between religions," MK el-Sana said, adding Denmark should apologize to all Muslims.
The protesters at the demonstration carried signs saying "attacking the Prophet and Islamic symbols is prohibited," and "we shall sacrifice ourselves for you – the Prophet."
