A GROUP of Muslim leaders has condemned the recent terror attack in Westminster.

Waltham Forest Council of Mosques says it is against the teachings of Islam for anyone to commit a violent act.

Four people died and 40 people were injured in a terror attack shortly before 3pm on Wednesday, March 22.

The attacker drove along the pavement over Westminster Bridge before crashing into the railing of the Houses of Parliament. He then ran towards Parliament and stabbed and killed a police officer, PC Keith Palmer, before being shot by armed officers.

Khalid Masood, 52, is believed to be the man behind the attack.

Chairman of the council of mosques Yusuf Hansa said: “On behalf of Waltham Forest Council of Mosques I would like to reiterate our condemnation of the shocking attack in Parliament and Westminster Bridge.

“The Quran states if anyone killed a person it would be as if he killed all mankind, and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind.

“All acts of brutality against innocent people whether in United Kingdom, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, France, Afghanistan or anywhere else goes against the teachings of Islam.

“We send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of those who were murdered and injured.”

The so-called Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack. A statement issued by its news agency Amaq said “a soldier for the Islamic State” carried it out.

Mr Hansa is asking the people of Waltham Forest to unite in the aftermath of the attack. Nearly a quarter of the borough’s residents are Muslim.

He said: “In the coming weeks Muslims who had nothing to do with the attack will face the test of having to justify themselves and their place in Western society.

“Muslims have contributed positively for centuries in England and will continue to do so.

“Waltham Forest Council of Mosques urges the community of all backgrounds to come together and work towards peace.”