A British convert to Islam, dubbed “Jihadi Jack” after travelling to Syria, has denied joining the Islamic State terror group.
Jack Letts told a UK news channel that he had fled his home in Oxford to study in Syria but did not regret the move.
“I came here searching for the truth, and people of the truth, and I don’t regret that I came,” he told Channel 4 News.
Asked if he is an IS fighter, he said: “Currently I’m not. I’m not and nor do I agree with lot of what they follow.”
In a separate online statement in Arabic, which he said should be remembered as his final words if he is killed, he wrote: “I oppose so-called Islamic State, but that doesn’t mean I am with you, the dirty non-Muslims.”
Speaking from somewhere in Syria, Letts admitted to missing home comforts like “kebabs and Krispy Kreme doughnuts” but said he knows he would not be welcome back in the UK.
His parents, John Letts and Sally Lane, are awaiting trial after being charged with terrorism offences relating to allegedly sending money to their son.
They have denied the charges of funding terrorism and are due to stand trial in January 2017.
{{/usCountry}}They have denied the charges of funding terrorism and are due to stand trial in January 2017.
{{/usCountry}}Jack said in an online statement he “hated” his parents “for the sake of Allah” because they are non-believers, and called on them to convert.
“They reject the religion of truth, so I reject them. I hate the kuffaar (non-believers), and am free from them. Die in your rage,” he said.
Despite narrowly surviving an air strike with just a “scratch”, the 20-year-old said he is not afraid of death.
“I’m not worried. Everyone is going to die on their day. Whether it’s by a drone strike. A Muslim understands that his life is between the hands of Allah. So if they want to bomb me, they’ll bomb me.”