Rabat – Prolific Moroccan scholar Ahmed Raissouni has joined the chorus in condemning the vicious Islamophobic attacks targeting Moroccan footballer Nouhaila Benzina – the first woman to appear in a hijab during the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Raissouni made his remarks in an article published by Itlala Press on Saturday, stressing that he appreciates Benzina’s abilities and commitment to proudly wearing the hijab despite the “distractions and pressures.”
The scholar said he received a question from one of his followers, who asked whether it is permissible for the player to wear the hijab in an athletic event.
“There is no harm, no objection,” he said, stressing that many considerations should be taken into account while thinking about the question
“But when talking about a specific player, who has overcome obstacles and excelled, we do not know much about her other than that,” he added. “So, we can only appreciate her skills and her commitment to wearing the hijab, proudly declaring it despite the distractions and pressures,” he said.
Benzina has faced pressure and hostile remarks after she made history for being the first woman to appear with a hijab during a World Cup tournament.
In July, the French sports newspaper L’Equipe claimed that Benzina’s decision to wear the hijab is “highly controversial.”
CNews sparked a similar controversy for Islamophobic remarks, describing the hijab as an “incredible regression.”
Many have stood up for Benzina, with unwavering support and solidarity against the hostile claims targeting her.
Benzina also made international headlines for her choice to maintain her hijab during the football games.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said last week: “Nouhaila Benzina became the first player yesterday to wear the hijab at a FIFA Women’s World Cup match. Football is inclusive, tolerant, universal, and diverse.”
