The Muslim Professionals Forum (MPF) shares the Britain's and the world's sorrow over the senseless killing of and injuries to innocent people as a result of the bomb blasts in central London.

Acts of violence to resolve conflict anywhere in the world, at any period in history, achieves nought, as violence only begets further violence. Terrorism perpetuated by individuals, organisations or worse still, state-sponsored, only escalates a vicious cycle of enmity and hatred.

If indeed yesterday's bombings were carried out by al-Qaeda, as alleged by the British authorities, or a related organisation in the name of Islam, the MPF condemns their brutal and inhumane action in no uncertain terms.

Nowhere in this religion of mercy, compassion and complete submission to the Almighty is the killing and maiming of innocents ever permitted. We believe this is a position shared by all religious fraternities.

On behalf of the MPF, I extend our deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved and pray for the quick and full recovery of those injured. We pray to the Almighty to give us fortitude in this most trying of times and may He grant us the elusive peace that the world so covets.

The writer is chairman of the Muslim Professional Forum.