In an apposite response to the escalating visibility of extremist symbols in public spaces, the Global Imams Council (GIC) has this week released its groundbreaking report titled “Symbols of Terror.”
This comprehensive visual guide catalogues flags, logos, and emblems associated with Islamist terrorist organisations designated by the Government of Canada, aiming to empower law enforcement, policymakers, educators, and citizens to identify and counteract these markers of radical ideology.
The report emphasises that such symbols are not mere icons but tools for recruitment, propaganda, and signalling violent intent, often misappropriating Islamic scripture and traditions to justify terrorism. Organised by colour schemes for easy reference, it profiles dozens of groups, detailing their origins, activities, and the meanings behind their emblems, while stressing that mainstream Islam rejects these distortions.
The Report describes Hamas as the Muslim Brotherhood’s Palestinian branch founded in 1987 – highlighting the interconnection of extremist networks and their propaganda focus. In Europe, the Muslim Brotherhood has built extensive ideological infrastructure via schools, charities, mosques, and community organisations to influence politics and society without overt violence.
A French government report warns of “entryism” by MB-linked groups infiltrating public bodies like schools and local governments, promoting Islamist agendas and risking national cohesion. These organisations also lobby EU institutions on issues like religious freedom to shape favourable policies.
Imam Muhammad Tawhidi, widely known as the “Imam of Peace”, a governing member of the GIC and an outspoken critic of the Muslim Brotherhood, , announced the report’s launch on X, highlighting its urgent relevance. In one post, he stated: “Extremist flags aren’t just symbols – they are threats. ‘Symbols of Terror’ equips law enforcement and the public to recognise them before it’s too late.”
In another, he underscored the council’s proactive stance: “In light of Canada’s growing discussion on terrorist flags and symbols, The Global Imams Council (GIC) leads with action – today launching ‘Symbols of Terror’, a vital guide to strengthen awareness and safeguard our communities.”
Nigel Goodrich, General Secretary of Brussels-based International Movement for Peace and Coexistence (IMPAC aisbl), has voiced strong support for the initiative. “This report will be invaluable in Europe, where the growing influence of the Muslim Brotherhood continues to undermine our shared values of tolerance and democracy, often through subtle networks and propaganda,” Goodrich said.
He noted that IMPAC has already taken action by hosting two major conferences in the European Parliament specifically targeting Samidoun, a network identified in the report as a front for the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) and involved in glorifying terrorism.
MEPs co-hosting these events called upon the European Council to proscribe Samidoun and its Belgium domiciled leader Mohamad Khatib who, in front of the European Parliament, had called for armed resistance to defeat the EU
As extremist ideologies seek to infiltrate societies across the continent, “Symbols of Terror” stands as a crucial resource for fostering informed vigilance and reclaiming the narrative of peace within Islam. By arming communities with knowledge, it paves the way for collaborative efforts to dismantle the roots of terror and build a safer, more united Europe.
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