Painful news and a deep sorrow have overcome me as a result of the loss of hundreds of lives and the injury of many others in the cities of Turkey and Syria following the earthquake.

O Lord, protect the citizens of Turkey and Syria, and all Muslims.

The scholars (may Allah have mercy on them) recommended that in the event of an earthquake, Muslims should seek forgiveness and frequently say "Astaghfirullah" (I seek forgiveness from Allah). Muslims should pray, show humility and supplication, and give charity.

O Allah, have mercy on those who have lost their lives, grant their families patience and solace, and send a speedy recovery to the wounded.

I call upon Muslims, both individually and collectively, to fulfill their religious duty towards our afflicted brothers and sisters. Provide them with material, moral, and humanitarian aid and support, for rescuing them is a religious obligation.

I also reaffirm that it is permissible to give and deliver zakat, donations, and charity to those affected by this disaster.

Prof. Dr. Ali Qaradaghi
Secretary-General of the International Union of Muslim Scholars
President of the Humanitarian League Organization