In a deeply personal and revealing interview on CBS Mornings, music icon Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, has broken his silence regarding the horrific 2022 attack on author Salman Rushdie.
The 75-year-old singer-songwriter, whose hits include 'Peace Train' and 'Morning Has Broken', expressed his horror at the violent assault that left Rushdie severely injured, stating unequivocally: "I condemn any form of violence."
Addressing a Complicated Past
The interview touched upon one of the most controversial chapters in Stevens' life - his apparent support for the fatwa against Rushdie in 1989. At the time, following his conversion to Islam, Stevens appeared to endorse the death sentence issued by Iran's Ayatollah Khomeini against the author of 'The Satanic Verses'.
Reflecting on those turbulent times, Stevens told CBS: "I was coming from a very raw place, having just embraced Islam." He described how his words were "misinterpreted" and taken out of context during that volatile period.
A Call for Understanding and Peace
During the emotional exchange, Stevens emphasised his commitment to peaceful dialogue and understanding. "The Quran equates the killing of one innocent person with the killing of all humanity," he stated, making his position on violence clear.
When pressed about whether he would welcome Rushdie to his home today, Stevens responded with characteristic diplomacy: "I'd welcome anybody. I'm a person who believes in peace."
From Music Star to Spiritual Journey
The interview also covered Stevens' remarkable journey from 1970s music superstar to his spiritual transformation and eventual return to music-making. His story represents one of popular music's most fascinating evolutions - from chart-topping success to religious devotion and back to creative expression.
Stevens' appearance on CBS Mornings marks a significant moment in addressing one of the most enduring controversies surrounding his public life, while reaffirming his commitment to peaceful coexistence in today's divided world.
