Abbas: freedom of speech should not offend believers

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said that freedom of speech and expression does not mean that religious symbols can be attacked. 

"I understand that there is freedom of expression, but it should offend neither the Prophet Muhammad nor Christ," he said, adding that "forms of artistic expression insulting religion should be restricted," Tass reports. 

Abbas, developing the theme of the tragedy at the Charlie Hebdo offices, which took away the lives of 12 people, said that such incidents "only breed more hatred." 

The Palestinian leader also said that he had taken part in the march against terror in Paris. "This was an important step, which showed the world that we are against terrorism," he explained.