KARACHI, Feb 15: The newly-formed forum, Stop the War Coalition, has condemned publication of blasphemous sketches in the European press, and announced holding of a rally on March 18 against the US-led forces, which invaded Iraq three years ago.

The decision was taken by the political committee of the forum which meet here on Wednesday with its convenor, Mairaj Mohammad Khan, in the chair.

The committee adopted several resolution one which noted that the blasphemous sketches carried by the European press had injured the religious sentiments of Muslims around the world. “Those who sought to justify this publication under the principle of ‘freedom of press’ must also realize that the UN Charter upholds the principle of respect for all religions.”

The forum emphasized that the media in Europe should observe a code of conduct to avoid such an act having been committed.

It observed that the motive behind the publication of the sketches seemed to be provoking Muslims to react strongly to project them as cruel and uncivilized, thereby sharpening the cultural differences and preparing public opinion in Europe for a conflict of civilization.

The people of Europe, who only a few years ago had protested in millions against the US-led war against Iraq, are now being influenced by the media with a view to turn them against Muslims when US decides to invade Iran; or Israel pushes to expand its borders for a Greater Israel.

It also condemned the ongoing military operation in Balochistan and demanded an immediate halt to it. The forum called for necessary reforms to ensure provincial autonomy. It also deplored US attack in Bajaur, price-hike and killings in Hangu.