Imam at Staten Island Islamic Center Calls for Abolishing Israel, Predicts “Zionist Regime” Will Fall Within a Decade
STATEN ISLAND, NY — In a controversial panel discussion titled “The Nakba Never Ended,” Imam Tom Facchine of the Muslim American Society (MAS) Staten Island Center declared that the State of Israel must be abolished, asserting that anything less is unacceptable. The event, held at the MAS Staten Island Center, featured speakers known for their outspoken anti-Zionist activism.
Facchine called on the pro-Palestinian movement to unify around the goal of dismantling the State of Israel, dismissing broader freedom-focused rhetoric as insufficient. He claimed Zionists are attempting to erase Islam, suggesting their ultimate aim is to “change the Quran.” Facchine referred to EPIC City as a case in point, though he offered no further explanation. He framed the issue as existential, stating: “It’s everything or nothing.” He also predicted that “within a decade, Allah will topple the Zionist regime.”
The panel was moderated by Abdullah Akl, political director of MAS Staten Island and an affiliate of the activist group Within Our Lifetime. Other panelists included British political commentator Sami Hamdi and MAS Staten Island’s resident scholar Abdelrahman Badawy.
Facchine’s remarks have sparked concern among Jewish organizations and interfaith leaders, many of whom view such rhetoric as incitement rather than political discourse. The MAS network has previously drawn scrutiny for platforming speakers with extremist views. It remains unclear whether the organization will issue a statement distancing itself from Facchine’s assertions.
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