San Diego Muslim leaders seized the news of Osama bin Laden's killing as a renewed chance to condemn terrorism.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations or CAIR, as it is known, said it welcomed news of bin Laden's death by U.S. forces. The group said the Al Qaeda leader never represented Muslims or Islam. CAIR spokesman Edgar Hopida said people should remember that bin Laden was also responsible for the deaths of Muslims.
“He had to be brought to justice for the crimes he committed not only against Americans but thousands of Muslims who are also victims of his network of terrorists," Hopida said.
Hopida said it’s time for Islamic extremists to put down their arms.
"The U.S. has made it clear that they will go after terrorists and if possible bring them to justice. I think it's not in the best interest to for these terrorists to continue this fight against the U.S," Hopida said.
Hopida also urged Americans not to become overzealous in their celebration of bin Laden's death and transform the event into an attack against Muslims.
San Diego CAIR Executive Director Hanif Mohebi says he hopes bin Laden’s death ushers in a more peaceful era between Americans and the Muslim world.
