AFGHANISTAN: ISNA and MPAC condemn desecration of bodies in Afghanistan

(Washington, DC – Jan 11, 2012)  The Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) and the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC) are deeply disturbed by the contents of a video posted on YouTube today depicting U.S. Marines urinating on dead bodies in Afghanistan and condemn any actions that desecrate a human being’s dignity and respect, even in death.SEE: U.S. Marines to Investigate Video of Soldiers Urinating on Corpses

MPAC has sent a letter to the Department of Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta demanding the soldiers be reprimanded and held accountable for their deplorable actions and for a thorough investigation of this incident.

ALSO SEE: MPAC’s Letter to Sec. Leon Panetta

We are shocked to see representatives of our great nation engaging in behavior that disrespects America, our values and our armed forces. This behavior is against the military’s code of conduct as well and the Geneva Convention’s rules on prisoners of war.

Unfortunately, these types of actions can only serve to bring animosity to the United States as it diminishes the trust other nations and their citizens have put in us. All human beings are endowed with sanctity and dignity in both life and death. The behavior evidenced in this video is morally reprehensible and should be condemned by the United States government in the strongest terms.

ISNA is an association of Muslim organizations and individuals that provides a common platform for presenting Islam, supporting Muslim communities, developing educational, social and outreach programs and fostering good relations with other religious communities, and civic and service organizations.

Founded in 1988, MPAC is an American institution which informs and shapes public opinion and policy by serving as a trusted resource to decision makers in government, media and policy institutions. MPAC is also committed to developing leaders with the purpose of enhancing the political and civic participation of Muslim Americans.