Riyadh (AsiaNews) - An urgent appeal from the Saudi interior minister to teachers and students, to eradicate extremism and spread the teaching of moderate Islam, which promotes tolerance. Speaking to those working and studying at the Islamic University in Medina, Prince Naif affirms that those who are blessed with the eternal divine message have the duty of asserting peace, justice, and stability in the world.

"I have told King Saud and Imam Muhammad bin Saud universities some Saudis were drawn into terrorism and how we can solve this problem," said the minister, as quoted by the Saudi Press Agency. Prince Naif has launched an online video channel for the universities, intended to combat distorted opinions and ideas.

The minister's objective is to highlight the role of Muslims in spreading the message of Islam in a convincing way. "Islam is a way of life that conforms to man’s nature. It’s suitable for all ages and places." Teachers and students should make their contribution to resolve the problems and crises facing humanity.

Saudi Arabia, which is one of the main targets for Islamic fundamentalism, is working hard against domestic terrorism. Together with hundreds of arrests, the government has launched a program to rehabilitate those who have been involved in fundamentalism, and in July, grand mufti Sheikh Abdul-Aziz Al al Sheikh called upon Saudis and foreigners to "not offer refuge and protection to the terrorists," because this is "a grave sin."