September 1, 2005

In light of recent high profile terrorism investigations conducted by the FBI, Muslim American leaders and allies held a conference call with the FBI on Tuesday, August 30th to discuss the obstacles in communication and partnership.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council, the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California, Omar Ibn Al Khattab Foundation, the Council on American Islamic Relations, and other community leaders participated in the call.

Shakeel Syed of the Islamic Shura Council of Southern California articulated his concern over investigations that have been leaked to media. FBI officials also addressed this and other concerns.

Salam Al-Marayati with the Muslim Public Affairs Council recommended efforts to strengthen and refine the partnership. He also recommended that Muslim American leaders and allies be briefed on future cases that are heading towards media outlets, to the extent that information made public will not compromise investigations. The FBI discussed policy and legal limitations that exist with release of such of information.

As a result of the conference call, the FBI agreed to provide Muslim American leaders and allies with public information at the same time such information is released to the press. MPAC looks forward to continuing to work in tandem with the FBI to protect the nation and the rights of the people within it.