The Iraqi Vice President Nuri al-Maliki called on al-Azhar to reconsider its stance towards the Popular Mobilization forces which are backing the regular army in its fight against ISIL terrorists.

Maliki said that al-Azhar statement was shocking and included serious accusations for the Popular Mobilization forces who include Shiite and Sunni fighters and represent a national unity in face of ISIL terrorism, Al-Manar reported Friday.

In a statement, Maliki stressed that al-Azhar must rely on authentic sources of information, away from the clerics who aim at stirring the sedition in the whole country.

Malikii added that al-Azhar fell in ISIL's trap as it was involved in the sectarian propaganda which aims at harming Islam and the Muslims, instead of contributing to the Islamic unity.