Release International

Plans to burn the Koran in Florida will have disastrous repercussions for Christian minorities around the world, warns Release International and its patron Bishop Michael Nazir-Ali.

Release, which serves persecuted Christians, says its partners in some countries have confirmed that Christian communities are already receiving threats of reprisals as a direct result of Rev Terry Jones' plans to burn copies of Islam's holy book on 9/11.

Release CEO Andy Dipper said: 'We have already received confirmation of threats to Christian minorities in both Pakistan and Iraq. Our contacts in Iraq say they have been specifically warned that they will face reprisals if the Koran is burnt. This is likely to be repeated in Nigeria, North Africa and the Middle East.'

Bishop Michael said: 'I am praying and hoping that this church in Florida will not carry out the action it is threatening. Christians, as they seek to relate to people of other faiths, do so on a basis of respect. I am very concerned that such extremist action will have repercussions on Christian communities in many parts of the world.'

Andy Dipper is concerned that the Dove World Outreach Center's plans will do 'serious damage to Christian-Muslim relationships' and urges the Florida church to reconsider. 'Announcing even the intention to burn Islam's holy book is highly irresponsible,' he said. 'Extremists may not wait to see if the Florida church actually carries out its proposal or not.'

Andy Dipper condemns the burning of any sacred books - be they copies of the Koran or the Bible. 'We are aware of many cases around the world where Bibles have been burnt, which have greatly concerned us,' said Andy. 'All sacred books deserve respect, including the Bible.'