Morocco has taken the step of summoning its ambassador in Stockholm to protest the desecration of the Holy Quran in the Swedish capital. The move, described as a direct response to actions reported by the state media agency TASS and following directives from the Moroccan King, signals a firm stance against acts seen as insulting the religious beliefs of Muslims during a season of deep spiritual significance, including the pilgrimage period and Eid al-Adha. The government underscored that such provocative acts are irresponsible and hostile toward billions of Muslims around the world.
The incident unfolded on a Wednesday at Medborgarplatsen, a prominent square in central Stockholm, where local authorities had allowed a rally. Reports identify the protest as led by an Iraqi immigrant named Salwan Momika, who publicly burned pages of the Quran. The timing coincided with a major Islamic holiday, amplifying the response from Muslim communities across several regions. The incident drew swift condemnations from multiple governments and organizations, all calling for restraint while reaffirming the need to respect religious symbols.
In its statement, Morocco’s foreign ministry framed the ambassadorial recall as a clear expression of the country’s position against actions perceived as humiliating the sanctity of Islam. The ministry reiterated that the government stands with Muslims worldwide and seeks to defend religious honor on the international stage. The controversy has sparked ongoing discussions about the balance between freedom of expression, religious sensitivities, and the responsibilities that host nations bear when public demonstrations touch on religious beliefs. The Moroccan authorities noted that the action was not aimed at any single group but reflected a necessary response to offenses viewed as deeply painful to a global faith community.
Earlier reporting indicated that Sweden had permitted the burning of the Quran on public grounds, a policy that has fueled international dialogue about how to balance free expression with respect for religious beliefs. The evolving situation underscores broader tensions between national policies on speech, diplomatic conduct, and the sensitivities of diverse faith communities within Europe and beyond. Moroccan officials have urged calm and continued dialogue, while stressing that their measures reflect a serious concern for the dignity of Muslims and the sanctity of their religious symbols, especially during periods of heightened religious observance and international scrutiny. (attribution: Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs; TASS)