Chems-Eddine Hafiz, the Rector of the Grande Mosquée de Paris, has spoken out against attempts to blame Muslims for the rioting that broke out during cost-of-living protests on Saturday, October 17. While condemning the looting, destruction of property, and attacks on law enforcement, Hafiz insisted that these violent acts must be addressed through the legal system. He rejected political rhetoric that associated the chaos with Islamic practices, clarifying that the religion explicitly forbids theft and destruction. Emphasizing that criminal liability is an individual matter, he argued that holding an entire religious community responsible contradicts republican principles. Instead of marginalization, Hafiz urged society to focus on justice, education, and fraternity to resolve social grievances.