Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani on Israeli hit list prompts US response
The US ambassador to Iraq, Alina Romanowski, has condemned the inclusion of Shia spiritual leader Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani on what appeared to be a hit list broadcast by Israel’s Channel 14. Romanowski praised the esteemed Muslim scholar for his efforts in promoting peace throughout the Middle East.
In a statement on Thursday, the US expressed solidarity with al-Sistani amid rising outrage across the region, particularly from Shia groups, in response to the Israeli broadcast. “Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani is a widely respected religious leader within the international community,” Romanowski stated. “He is a critical voice in the efforts to promote a more peaceful region.”
While Romanowski did not directly mention the broadcast. Her remarks were seen as a reaction to the controversial portrayal of al-Sistani. Romanowski also made clear the US position on the matter, stating, “We reject any suggestion of targeting Grand Ayatollah Sistani. The United States continues to support peace-building efforts across the region.”
Channel 14’s broadcast depicted al-Sistani’s image with red crosshairs over his head, alongside images of other figures opposing Israel. It included Hezbollah’s deputy leader, Naim Qassem and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. The depiction sparked backlash, especially given al-Sistani’s stature as one of the highest spiritual authorities for Shia Muslims.
Influential Iraqi scholar
Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, a 94-year-old Iraqi scholar of Iranian origin, is based in Najaf, south of Baghdad, and is rarely seen in public. One of his last public appearances was during a 2021 meeting with Pope Francis.
Although he avoids public engagements, al-Sistani frequently issues statements providing political guidance to his followers. In 2014, he famously called for Iraqis to mobilize against ISIL (ISIS). This decree helped form paramilitary groups, some linked to Iran, that played a major role in defeating the extremist group.
Al-Sistani and Iraq condemn Israeli aggression
In response to Israel’s recent military campaigns in Lebanon, al-Sistani’s office issued a statement. It condemned Israel’s “brutal aggression” and called for all efforts to halt the violence. His office urged international intervention to protect the Lebanese people from the “devastating effects” of the attacks.
The Iraqi government has also condemned the Channel 14 broadcast. It labeled the broadcast a “heinous violation” that could incite further violence in the region.
“We call on the international community to take an urgent stance against any incitement to hatred between peoples,” said the Iraqi presidency in a statement. The government also reiterated Iraq’s commitment to ending the aggression in Palestine and Lebanon.
