In order for this edict to carry any weight with the jihadis (which I think was the whole point) it has to look like they aren't defending Americans and Canadians, just muslims. The fact that these muslims are Canadian and American citizens isn't something that is discussed. This edict reads as a condemnation of Terrorism in general. The Quran supports jihad, there isn't much question of that, but now these Imams are saying that what the terrorists are doing isn't jihad, so therefore its evil.
The text goes on to say that Muslims aren't persecuted here (North America) and have complete freedom of religion, which could take a bit of wind out of the jihadi argument that they are fighting to free their brothers from persecution, time will tell on that.
A little late to the party, but welcome all the same. For them to come out like this with a religious edict condemning terrorism is a huge step on their part. It'll be interesting to see the international reaction.
“it has to look like they aren’t defending Americans and Canadians, just muslims”
That was my impression as well.