A deeply disturbing incident in Gjakova, Kosovo, where pages of the Holy Quran were burned, torn, and hung on a tree, has shocked public opinion and caused profound indignation among Muslim believers, as well as wider Albanian society. This act is not only an attack on a sacred religious symbol, but also a direct provocation against the long-standing religious coexistence of Albanians.
The event has sparked strong reactions across Kosovo and Albania, with intellectuals, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens condemning it as a dangerous and intentional provocation rather than an isolated act of vandalism.
Ylli Gurra: “This Is a Deliberate and Dangerous Provocation”
Invited to the program “Dita Jonë” on A2 CNN, former Mufti of Tirana, Ylli Gurra, described the incident as highly alarming and strategically motivated. According to Gurra, the act aims to undermine religious harmony and provoke tension within Albanian society, particularly in Kosovo.
He emphasized that such actions should not be analyzed only within the framework of the present moment, but rather as part of a long-term strategy designed to target both the religious and national identity of Albanians.
Allegations of Serbian Involvement and Historical Context
According to Gurra, there is a strong possibility that Serbian circles are behind this act, continuing a historical pattern of attempts to undermine Albanian identity in Kosovo.
“This possibility cannot be excluded at all,” Gurra stated. “Just two years ago, there were even harsher attempts that were later confirmed to be directly financed by Serbian political and academic circles.”
He reminded viewers that in previous cases, individuals were even camouflaged as Muslims—at least in name—in order to carry out provocations that would later fuel division and distrust within Albanian society. Months later, these actions were officially confirmed to have direct backing from Serbian political and academic structures.
Religion as a Tool for Political Manipulation
Gurra stressed that Albanians, particularly Kosovars, have paid a heavy price throughout history for the misuse of religion as a political weapon. He explained that Albanians were often labeled as “Muslims” or “Turks” in an attempt to justify racist narratives and territorial claims over Kosovo.
According to him, racism and religious extremism have been systematically used to legitimize aggression, while Orthodox ideology has been manipulated to serve political goals.
“The most frightening aspect,” Gurra noted, “is that these investments continue in an organized and persistent way, through individuals and structured networks.”
Gjakova Case: Not an Isolated Incident
One of the most concerning aspects of the Gjakova incident is that the perpetrators have not yet been identified or brought to justice. This reinforces the belief that the act is part of a long-term destabilization strategy, rather than a random or spontaneous action.
The desecration of the Quran in Gjakova sends a clear message: provocations targeting religious symbols remain an active tool for destabilizing Kosovo’s fragile peace and social cohesion.
Religious Perspective: Divine Justice and Moral Consequences
Beyond legal accountability, Ylli Gurra highlighted the religious and moral dimension of such acts. From an Islamic perspective, he reminded viewers that the Holy Quran is divinely protected, and that those who desecrate it ultimately harm themselves, not the faith.
According to Islamic belief, divine justice exists alongside human justice, and no act against sacred texts goes without consequence.
A Call for Calm, Maturity, and Trust in Institutions
Despite the severity of the incident, Gurra strongly called for calm, restraint, and wisdom. He emphasized that emotional reactions and impulsive responses would only serve the goals of those behind such provocations.
He urged Albanians to trust state institutions, allow investigations to proceed, and most importantly, to protect the religious mosaic that defines Albanian society.
“Provocations like these must never succeed in damaging our fundamental values or our tradition of religious coexistence,” he concluded.
Conclusion: Protecting Albanian Unity and Religious Harmony
The burning and desecration of Quran pages in Gjakova is not merely an act of vandalism—it is a serious warning sign. It highlights the ongoing efforts of certain actors to exploit religion as a fault line within Albanian society.
However, Albania and Kosovo have long stood as examples of religious tolerance and coexistence. Preserving this legacy requires awareness, unity, and institutional strength.
The response to this incident must be guided by justice, calmness, and unwavering commitment to harmony, ensuring that provocations fail and that Albanian society remains united against division.