Jakarta (ANTARA) - PBNU, the Executive Board of Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia's largest Muslim organization, called the bombing tragedy in Sri Lanka a gruesome crime that killed 290 people, including children and women.

PBNU Secretary General Helmy Faishal Zaini, in a written statement received in Jakarta, Monday, denounced any form and act of violence, encompassing the actions of attacking parties viewed as being different.

Zaini opined the principle of benefit to humanity must ensure adherence to a framework encompassing the five key purposes of the Islamic Divine law of faith, life, intellect, progeny, and prosperity. The bombing tragedy runs counter to the Islamic ethical framework based on the Maqaasid Syariah, or the higher purposes of the Islamic Divine law.

He emphasized that Islam in no way propagates violent actions and is in fact 'rahmatan lil' alamin, or blessing for all members of the universe.

The PBNU secretary general believes that Islam also stands for tolerance, respect, peace, and freedom, so the bombings were against Islamic values.

Zaini has appealed to the Indonesian government to adopt prompt diplomatic measures and partake in efforts to build peace in Sri Lanka.

He deems the effort as a crucial aspect of global responsibility, central to creating world peace and security.

The PBNU secretary general further called on the United Nations to step forward to probe the wrongdoers to restore normalcy and a conducive situation in Sri Lanka and to return to being a sovereign state that makes its people prosperous.

Zaini also called on the international community to jointly muster humanitarian aid for the Sri Lankans. EDITED BY INE

Translator: Bambang Purwanto
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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