Imam says he’s working on solution to resolve debate over mosque near NYC’s ground zero

Imam: I’m working on solution to NYC mosque debate

NEW YORK — The imam leading the effort to build an Islamic center near ground zero says he’s working on a solution to resolve the debate over whether it should be moved.

Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf said Monday that all options are being explored toward a solution “that will resolve this crisis, diffuse it.”

Adbul make his remarks before the Council on Foreign Relations.

He also raised the question of whether the project is worth the controversy. He says the answer is “a categorical yes.” He says the center would be a place for all faiths to come together in mutual respect.

He says that “the world is watching what we do here” and that it is important to “live up to our ideal.”