CAIRO - By Sobhi Megahed 

 Al-Azhar, the highest seat of learning in the Sunni Muslim world, announced on Sunday its opposition to a potential military strike against Syria, while condemning the use of chemical weapons, regardless of who uses them.

"Al-Azhar denounces the use of chemical weapons, regardless of who uses them," Al-Azhar said in a statement, a copy of which was obtained by Anadolu Agency.

"It underlines the right of the Syrian people to determine their own future and choose its own rulers in complete freedom and transparency," added the statement.

"Al-Azhar also expresses strong opposition to and condemnation of a potential military strike against Syria."

Al-Azhar said such a strike would "overlook all international norms, pose a threat to the Arab and Muslim worlds and undermine international peace and stability."

There is growing talk about a possible US-led military strike against Syria over the alleged use of chemical weapons by Bashar al-Assad forces in attacking the suburbs of Damascus a few days ago.

The attack has killed more than 1,600 people and injured 10,000 others, most of them women and children, according to the National Alliance for Syrian Revolutionary Forces.

The Syrian regime, however, says these allegations are baseless.

In a surprising move, US President Barack Obama sought a mandate from Congress on Friday before launching a strike against Syria.

englishnews@aa.com.tr