A dentist in Florida is facing potential license suspension and an investigation into his practice following inflammatory remarks made during sermons at a mosque in North Miami. Dr. Fadi Kablawi, an imam at Masjid As Sunnah An Nabawiyyah, sparked controversy with statements calling for violence against Jews and condemning the Israeli regime.
In a sermon broadcast on Facebook on April 26, Kablawi urged for the murder of Jews and denounced the Israeli government, likening it to the Nazis. His remarks included calls for divine intervention to “annihilate the tyrannical Jews” and referred to Jews as “brothers of apes and pigs.”
The incident has prompted strong condemnation and calls for action from various quarters. Florida state Representative Randy Fine, chairman of the Florida House Health and Human Services Committee, has submitted a letter to Dr. Jose R. Mellado, chairman of the Florida Board of Dentistry, urging the suspension of Kablawi’s dental license and a thorough investigation into his practice.
Fine expressed concerns about the safety of Jewish residents in the area where Kablawi practices dentistry, highlighting the potential risks associated with his inflammatory rhetoric. He emphasized that practicing medicine is a privilege and called for immediate action to protect patients and the public.
Dr. Mellado acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and emphasized the board’s responsibility to ensure the safety of citizens in Florida. He instructed the board to review the matter and take appropriate action to safeguard patients and the public.
Kablawi’s remarks have also raised alarm among some of his Jewish patients, with Fine reporting that individuals have expressed fear and concern about receiving dental treatment from him. Fine emphasized that such rhetoric violates the principle of doing no harm and called for accountability.
The controversy surrounding Kablawi’s sermons is not limited to the recent incident. Previous statements made by Kablawi during lectures at the mosque, including calls for the annihilation of Zionists and references to divine punishment for Jews, have also drawn criticism.
The situation comes amid ongoing tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with protests and demonstrations taking place globally. Kablawi’s remarks have reignited debates about the boundaries of free speech, hate speech, and the responsibilities of professionals in positions of influence.
Efforts to address the issue are underway, with authorities and community leaders emphasizing the importance of upholding standards of professionalism, respect, and tolerance in all settings, including places of worship and professional practice.