The following are excerpts from a speech given by Egyptian cleric Hazem Abu Ismail, which aired on Al-Nas TV on December 28, 2009.

Hazem Abu Ismail: My brothers, we have run out of time. Allow me to say just a few final words. You know that I do not usually talk in public about social matters – things like blessings and condolences, even though everybody is entitled to receive them. But as you know, some cases have certain aspects, so permit me to make an exception to the rule, and to express my sincere condolences to brother Dr. Ayman Al-Zawahiri and to Muhammad Al-Zawahiri on the passing of their mother. We all feel that these condolences must be expressed. May Allah grant her absolution, and may her family be filled with patience, tranquility, and comfort.