Community leaders Engage with Ambassador Masood Khan on Shia Community Concerns in Pakistan

AUGUST 24, 2023 - WASHINGTON, D.C. — Taking a pivotal step in addressing the concerns of the Shia diaspora in the U.S. pertaining to the prevailing situation in Pakistan, esteemed leaders from the American Shia community recently convened with Pakistan's Ambassador, His Excellency Masood Khan.

The high-profile dialogue, hosted at the Pakistani Embassy, was graced by notable figures such as Mr. Ali Shah Bukhari, Secretary of Mohammadia Center; Sheikh Abdul Jalil Nawee, Resident Alim of Idara Jaferia; Mr. Azmat Husain, President of UMAA; Maulana Sayed Sulaiman Hasan, Resident Alim and Trustee of Al- Asr Masjid; Mr. Rahat Husain, Executive Director of Shia Muslim Foundation; Mr. Waseem Naqvi, Trustee of Imam Ali Center, and Mr. Adil Rizvi, Secretary of Idara Jaferia.

The core discussion centered around the deep concerns over sectarian challenges in Pakistan, notably the disproportionate impacts on the Shia community. Emphasis was placed on the potential implications of the 'Tauheen a Sahaba Bill and Law' and its possible misuse, drawing connections with the recent unfortunate events linked to blasphemy laws.

During the dialogue at the Pakistani Embassy, a pivotal moment was the hand delivery of a comprehensive letter from SMF to Ambassador Masood Khan formalizing the content of the meeting itself.

Commenting on the significance of the dialogue, Mr. Azmat Husain, President of UMAA, expressed, “Our community's deep-rooted connection to Pakistan drives our desire for its harmony and progress. We ardently hope our insights resonate and contribute towards a unified Pakistan.”

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Rahat Husain, Executive Director of Shia Muslim Foundation, stated, “Our intent is clear - to cultivate a dialogue that culminates in positive, tangible outcomes. We have immense respect and optimism for Pakistan's trajectory, and addressing these pivotal concerns is essential for that envisioned path.”

Ambassador Khan recognized and acknowledged the insights shared during the discussion, and thanked the attendees for presenting their concerns. The Ambassador vowed to continue dialogue and to present these concerns to top officials in Pakistan's government.

Shia Muslim Foundation Condemns Attack on the Esteemed Shah Cheragh Shrine

WASHINGTON D.C.: The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) profoundly condemns the violent act carried out on the significant Shāh Chérāgh shrine in Shiraz, southern Iran. This unwarranted attack led to the tragic loss of an innocent life and left eight individuals injured.

The Shāh Chérāgh, which translates to "King of the Light" in Persian, is a prominent religious and historical site located in the central part of Shiraz. It stands as the mausoleum for Ahmed bin Musa and his brother Muhammad, both direct descendants of Imam Mūsā al-Kādhim (peace be upon him). Ahmed bin Musa, while on his journey to meet his brother Imam Ali Rida (peace be upon him), is believed to have been martyred by the Abbasid caliph al-Ma'mun in Shiraz.

The significance of the Shāh Chérāgh is deeply rooted in Shia Islam's history. It was identified as a religious site when a radiant light was observed emanating from a grave. Upon investigation, the grave revealed a warrior with a ring engraved with "The Pride belongs to God, Ahmad son of Musa," confirming its importance as the final resting place of the sons of Imam Mūsā al-Kādhim (peace be upon him).

Historical records indicate that in the 9th century, Sultan Mir Ahmad, a brother to Imam Ali Rida (peace be upon him), was laid to rest beside the tomb of his own brother, Muhammad. Its prominence as a pilgrimage destination grew in the 14th century when Queen Tashi Khatun authorized the construction of an adjoining mosque and theological school.

Rahat Husain, Executive Director of SMF, stated, "The unprovoked attack on such a vital symbol of our faith is deeply saddening. We express our solidarity with the victims and their families and call upon leaders worldwide to denounce these heinous acts unequivocally."

Given this distressing event, and in conjunction with President Biden's recent acknowledgment of the importance of Ashura, the SMF underscores the imperative of fostering global awareness and respect for Shia landmarks and their profound historical significance.

We earnestly implore the global community and individuals of all faiths to unite in opposing such acts and to collaborate in upholding the sanctity and respect for religious landmarks.

Chair of Senate Homeland Security Committee, Senator Gary Peters, Recognizes Imam Husain’s Sacrifice

Washington, D.C. – July 12, 2023 – The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) is honored to acknowledge and appreciate the recent tweet by Senator Gary Peters, Chair of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, recognizing the sacrifice of Imam Husain, a pivotal figure in Shia Islam.

The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, led by Senator Peters, is renowned for its influential role in maintaining national security, examining government efficiency, and ensuring public safety. The committee's focus includes critical aspects of the U.S. government that affect American lives daily. It is instrumental in developing policies that keep our homeland secure, ensure efficient governmental operations, and protect civil rights.

Senator Peters' recognition of Ashura and the values it signifies, such as sacrifice, justice, and equality, is not just an acknowledgment of a significant religious observance but also signifies a shared understanding of these universal values, central to the mission of his committee and the American ethos at large. This resonates deeply with the Shia Muslim community that finds these values embodied in the life and sacrifice of Imam Husain.

This tweet comes accompanying President Biden's acknowledgement of Ashura, reinforcing the importance of these shared values at the highest levels of U.S. leadership.

Rahat Husain, the Executive Director of SMF in Washington DC, applauded these gestures, saying, "Such acknowledgments from leading political figures like Senator Peters and President Biden, help to foster inclusivity, mutual respect, and understanding among diverse communities. It also strengthens our shared commitment to the values of justice, equality, and sacrifice, mirrored in both the American spirit and the ethos of Ashura."

The Shia Muslim Foundation will continue to work tirelessly to foster understanding and dialogue around Shia Muslim traditions and values, promoting a more inclusive society. It appreciates the commitment demonstrated by Senator Peters and President Biden to uphold and highlight these values that serve to unify us as a nation.