King Abdullah II of Jordan called on Muslims Tuesday to join the fight against the so-called Islamic State during a speech at the European Parliament (EP).

The Jordanian monarch said the terrorists' acts ran counter to basic Islamic values, such as mercy, peace and tolerance. "These terrorists have made the world's Muslims their greatest target," he said, "We will not allow them to hijack our faith."

"Our world faces an assault by terrorists with a ruthless ambition," he added. "The motive is not faith, it is power pursued by ripping apart countries and communities in sectarian conflicts and inflicting suffering across the world."

The King also stressed the need for respect in creating an inclusive society. "Attacking and excluding others, insulting other peoples and their faith and convictions, this is no way forward," he told MEPs. "The future lies in unity and respect, not division and stereotypes."

The visit by King Abdullah II was his fourth to the EP, having previously addressed members of the EP in 2002, 2007 and 2012.