The horrific images of Moath al-Kasasbeh, the Jordanian pilot captured in December, being burned alive by members of Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is “barbaric, inhuman and condemned in the strongest terms”, the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) said in a statement on Wednesday.

Jordan hanged two Iraqi prisoners today including a female in response to an Islamic State video showing a captured Jordanian pilot being burnt alive by the group. Islamic State had demanded the release of the woman, Sajida al-Rishawi, in exchange for a Japanese hostage whom it later beheaded. Sentenced to death for her role in a 2005 suicide bomb attack in Amman, Rishawi was executed at dawn, according to state television.

“We urge all justice and peace loving nations to stand firm against any destructive force which negates human rights, international law and the propogation of peaceful co-exist amongst nation states,” the ulema body stated.

Whilst the MJC has condemned the terrorist extremist group which calls itself the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) for previous crimes against humanity and violation of Islamic law, the organisation said the horrific murder displays the extent to which this lawless group is prepared to go to terrorize and manipulate nation states.

“The destructive actions of ISIS cannot foster any form of peace, nation building nor stability in a region which sorely needs direction based on values, human rights and laws that govern inter state relations.”

“We urge the people of Iraq and surrounding areas to isolate these murderers so that their region may abide by Islamic/International law which will foster the much needed peaceful coexistence amongst nations,” said the MJC.

“We convey our condolences to the family of Moath al Kasasbeh (May his soul rest in peace) and the people of Jordan during this tragic time. We pray that their sad and tragic loss will not be in vain and that they be granted patience during this very difficult time.” VOC