While the U.S. government isn’t talking publicly about retaliation, some locals seem to be willing to take matters into their own hands following today’s apparent terrorist attacks.

Only hours after the destruction of the World Trade Center towers, the Islamic Center of Greater Lansing, located at 920 South Harrison Road, has received threatening phone calls, said Mahmoud Mousa, president of the center.

Many believe the attack is tied to Middle East.

“We are still keeping the building open today regardless,” Mousa said. “We want safety in the whole community, and we are praying today for that, and for the families and friends of those involved.

“We condemn this terrible action.”

A 2 p.m. prayer service, one of five held daily at the center, welcomed 11 men who showed up today - and they had more to pray about then usual.

“We as Muslims are praying for families and others involved with this tragedy,” said Aimen Farraj, a fourth-year pharmacology and toxicology MSU graduate student. “Islam as a religion absolutely condemns attacks like this - killings of innocent people, and especially suicide. That is forbidden.”

Omar Soubani, religious adviser and chairman of trustees for the center, also expressed his sadness.

He suggested the party responsible be punished.

“We are praying today for the family’s patience and well-being to stay well.”

For more on local reaction, see Wednesday’s edition of The State News.