Each year Muslims revel in the savage slaughter of millions of animals during Eid al Adha, a barbaric feast of sacrifice.
This year the sacrifices in the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka were particularly messy.
Police had allowed the traditional slaughter to take place in certain designated areas of the city, but heavy downpours caused many roads to run red with a mixture of water and blood.
The cruelty involved in this disgusting festival should be roundly condemned by world leaders.
But what we get instead are messages of goodwill to Muslims celebrating Eid.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, above, for example, described the festival as “cheerful”.
Russian news agency Interfax reported that Putin had congratulated Russian Muslims on the Eid al Adha (Kurban Bayram) holiday, saying:
For centuries this cheerful holiday has been playing a huge role in the life of the Muslim Ummah; it bolsters unity between people, introduces them to the timeless values of Islam and fosters their caring and respectful attitude towards ancient history, customs and legacy of ancestors.
The President welcomed the fact that Russian Muslims cherished their spiritual traditions and widely celebrated Kurban Bayram.
The Muslim Ummah is actively participating in the country’s life and is making a significant contribution to education of the younger generation and promotion of the inter-religious and inter-ethnic dialogue. Indeed, its activity is very important for maintaining the peace and accord in society.
UK Prime Minister Theresa May also felt the need to reach out to Muslims during Eid.
To all Muslims in Britain and around the world I wish you a blessed Eid al-Adha. I know this festival means a great deal to communities, a time when families and friends are brought together to pray and feast, and Muslims across different continents are brought together in faith.
And as you share in that spirit of togetherness, I think proudly of the many ways people in this country connect with each other and enrich our nation’s life.
I see this in politics where British Muslims are making a real difference, in enterprise and the running of multi-million pound businesses, and in the courage and dedication of those who safeguard our streets and serve in our armed forces.
I see this in the charity and compassion of our Muslim communities, whose members give so generously to those less fortunate … I am proud of the contribution British Muslims make to this country, and proud that Britain is home to people from vibrant and diverse backgrounds.
So to all Muslims, in this country and around the world, I want to say Eid Mubarak. I wish you a happy and peaceful Eid.
Hat tip: Trevor Blake