Rabbis visit Qatar's emir for condolences, highlight interfaith dialogue

A delegation of rabbis, led by Rabbi Mendy Chitrik, Chairman of the Alliance of Rabbis in Islamic States (ARIS), visited Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani in Doha on Monday to offer condolences following the death of the Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

Rabbi Chitrik described the meeting as reflecting friendship, mutual respect, and the importance of dialogue between communities. He stated that the delegation felt "very, very welcome" and emphasized that "friendship is tested" during times of conflict, highlighting their support for Qatar.

ARIS represents rabbis serving approximately 110,000 Jews across 18 Muslim-majority countries. Chitrik characterized these Jewish communities as "bridges of coexistence and tolerance" and examples of how Muslims and Jews can live together.

Addressing regional tensions, Rabbi Chitrik stressed that lasting peace begins with individuals and acts of kindness, sympathy, and love, stating, "Peace starts between people."

He acknowledged the historical decline in Jewish populations within the Islamic world but affirmed their continued presence and belonging to the region, expressing optimism for the future through engagement between neighbors and religious leaders.