Islamic extremist exposures coming up

The Minister for National Security Namiq Abbasov told journalists last week that the ministry would soon initiate a series of trials of Islamic extremist groups active mostly in Azerbaijan's northern provinces.

A week ago, deputy national security minister announced that such Islamic extremist groups as Wahabi and Shiite, inspired from Iran and a number of Arabic countries, are cherishing plans to seize power in Azerbaijan.

Also widely discussed is the activity of a number of Christian organizations, which, under the cover of humanitarian activities and material assistance to the destitute, coerce the needy to adopt Christianity, which represents blatant violation of the Law of the Azerbaijan Republic "On religion".

In a seminar last week, head of the Caucasus clerical office Sheik Pashazadeh said various missionary groups are trying to undermine the socio-political stability in the country under the pretext of teaching languages and computer literacy.

The spiritual leader urged Azeri government to undertake appropriate measures against missionary groups, which he believes pose a threat to the national security.

"According to the existing legislation I don’t have the authority to engage in anti-missionary activity. So let the government itself take the necessary steps against them", Pashazadeh was quoted by ANS as saying.

The Caucasus clerical office has sent suggestions to the parliament to amend the law on religion.

Iran outraged

Iranian ambassador to Azerbaijan Ahad Gazai has dismissed reports that Iranian-supported Islamic extremists are allegedly trying to topple the legitimate government in Azerbaijan.

The diplomat voiced his utter indignation with the fact that such misinformation had been spread by a top government official. Mr. Gazai stated that he had appealed to President Aliyev in writing in this regard.