“I, a Muslim, Give My Honest Testimony”
Introducing himself as “a son of Ishmael, an imam, a Muslim, a man of peace,” Chalghoumi wrote: “I present here my sincere testimony about this remarkable people.”
He praised Israel’s fortitude against numerous historical attempts to annihilate it: by the Pharaohs, Babylonians, Romans, Nazis, and Arab regimes. “All failed,” he emphasized.
“A Living Miracle”
“I believe in religion and miracles,” the imam began. “But there is something about this nation—the people of Israel—that feels like a living miracle.” He noted that although small in number, the Jewish people possess “unique strength and a divine blessing.”
“Wherever they lay their hands, they succeed,” he wrote, listing achievements in finance, trade, science, philosophy, and literature. “They turned a desert land into a paradise—without oil or gas, but with freedom, democracy, intelligence, and willpower.”
“A Nation That Never Tires”
Turning to the current conflict, Chalghoumi observed: “For two and a half years, this people has fought on five fronts. They said it would tire, that it would collapse. Yet here it is, surprising the world by opening a new front against an Iranian enemy feared even by Arab regimes.”
He continued: “This people, though small in number, carries the courage of nobles, the wisdom of prophets, the patience of the righteous, and the determination of survivors. How could it be otherwise, when they are known to be descendants of Abraham, Solomon, David, Moses, Jacob, Joseph, and 1,523 prophets and messengers?”
“This is the people that gave the world monotheism and the belief in one God,” Chalghoumi stated. “Truly, I find no other word to describe them than ‘the nation of miracles.’”
“If Arabs Had Clarity of Vision…”
Chalghoumi concluded his letter with a direct appeal: “If the Arabs had clarity of vision, they would choose to unite among themselves, to learn from Israel, to cooperate with it. Perhaps they would absorb some of its knowledge, wisdom, and dignity.”
A Voice of Moderate Islam
Residing in France, Chalghoumi is widely recognized as a representative of moderate Islam. He adheres to Sufi teachings and is known for his public support of Israel. Around three years ago he visited Samaria, where he met with Israeli rabbis.
