(WASHINGTON DC - November 27, 2024) The Shia Muslim Foundation (SMF) deeply appreciates and commends the statement issued by His Eminence Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali al-Sistani concerning the tragic and heinous attack on travelers near Parachinar, Pakistan.
Grand Ayatollah Sistani, the highest religious authority for millions of Shia Muslims worldwide, is a beacon of wisdom, guidance, and unity. From his base in Najaf, Iraq, he has consistently emphasized principles of justice, compassion, and the protection of human dignity. His leadership transcends borders, offering hope and solidarity to believers facing oppression and violence.
The text of the statement is as follows:
Statement Issued by the Office of His Eminence (May God Preserve Him) Regarding the Heinous Crimes in the City of Parachinar, Pakistan
In the name of Allah, Most Beneficent, Most Merciful
(Indeed, to Allah we belong, and to Him is our return)
To the believing brothers and sisters in Parachinar, Pakistan:
Peace and blessings be upon you.
Once again, the extremist terrorists have committed a heinous crime, carrying out an armed attack on travelers on their way from Parachinar to Peshawar, which led to the martyrdom of many innocent believers and injury to others.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to you and express our sorrow and sympathy to the bereaved families, and we ask Allah to grant everyone patience and solace and speedy recovery to the wounded, and to elevate the ranks of the martyrs of this tragic incident.
The Najaf Seminary and the highest Shia religious authority strongly condemn this horrific crime that targeted the unity of Muslims. We urge the respected Government of Pakistan to seriously consider ways to protect the oppressed from the cruelty and crimes of terrorist groups. We also call for preventive and necessary measures in this regard to ensure that believers are not subjected to violent and brutal attacks by extremist groups.
We ask Allah to grant continued honor and dignity to the noble Pakistani people.
Office of Sayyid al-Sistani (may his life be preserved)
Najaf al-Ashraf
20 Jumada al-Ula 1446 AH/ 22 November 2024
The Original Statement: https://www.sistani.org/persian/statement/26921/Credit to Imam Mahdi Association of Marjaeya (I.M.A.M.), Inc. for this translation, original link here.
In his statement, Ayatollah Sistani conveyed profound condolences to the victims and their families, condemned the barbaric actions of extremist groups, and called on the Government of Pakistan to take serious and effective measures to protect vulnerable communities. His words reaffirm the shared commitment of Shia Muslims to peace and the sanctity of life, regardless of sect or background.
The Shia Muslim Foundation echoes His Eminence’s call for the Pakistani government to strengthen protections for its citizens and implement preventive measures to safeguard Shia Muslims and all minority communities. SMF has previously condemned the Parachinar attack as an egregious act of terror that violates fundamental human rights and undermines unity, see our statement here. We continue to stand in solidarity with the people of Pakistan and urge global efforts to address sectarian violence.
Grand Ayatollah Sistani’s unwavering support for justice and unity is a source of inspiration for the Shia Muslim community and all advocates of peace. His statement reminds us that the path forward requires collaboration, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to protecting the oppressed.
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Farhana Kassamali
Director of Public Relations
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