Austrian Muslim body seeks clarification on governor’s anti-Islam remarks

The Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGO) has called on Lower Austria Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner to clarify recent comments perceived as anti-Islamic, Anadolu Agency reported.

,In a Sunday interview with broadcaster ORF, Mikl-Leitner, a member of the Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP), emphasized the need for measures addressing economic recovery and “the fight against Islam.”

The statement drew criticism from IGGO President Ümit Vural, who urged for a correction .
“If this was a slip of the tongue, a clear clarification is needed,” Vural said in a statement on Monday. “Otherwise, such rhetoric risks fostering division, discrimination, and further hostility toward Muslims in Austria.”

Vural also highlighted a rise in anti-Muslim sentiment and attacks in recent months, calling for responsible language to avoid inflaming tensions.