A suspected arson attack on the Islamic Centre and Al Madinah Hall in central Dublin caused extensive damage to the place of worship, prompting renewed concerns about rising Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred in Ireland.
No one was injured because everyone inside was safely evacuated before the fire spread. The attack followed weeks of reported harassment, threats, and intimidation directed at Muslim worshippers by far-right extremist groups.
The Irish Muslim Council strongly condemned the attack, saying worshippers had recently been illegally filmed, subjected to false accusations, and repeatedly targeted.
The council described the incident as an attack not only on a mosque, but also on religious freedom, peace, and social cohesion. It warned that anti-Muslim hate campaigns and inflammatory rhetoric create an environment that encourages violent extremism.
The council called on Irish society to reject hatred and division and instead uphold the values of peace, religious freedom, and mutual respect.
Irish police have charged a 41-year-old man in connection with the attack. He appeared before the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin on Wednesday.
