Ahlul Bayt (AS) International News Agency - ABNA: Speaking at the 9th International Pre-Meeting of the 6th Imam Reza (AS) Global Congress, renowned international journalist Marzieh Hashemi framed the teachings of Imam Reza (AS) on human rights as a direct challenge to oppressive global systems, emphasizing the unique Shia responsibility to stand with the oppressed—a duty she believes is being crystallized for a new generation by the ongoing resistance in Gaza and the failures of Western narratives.
Sister Hashemi began her speech by reflecting on recent events in Gaza over the past two to two and a half years. She described how global narratives have often shaped perception and created spaces for manipulation and injustice. “Many people genuinely believed that the United States is a democratic country that intervenes elsewhere for human rights and to benefit others. Many Americans, and I would say some Europeans too, believed that. But the younger generation, especially Gen Z, is experiencing a major awakening,” she said. Sister Hashemi observed that these events have shattered long-held assumptions, leaving many people “in a hollow situation” as they search for something real to hold onto.
From the Shia perspective, Sister Hashemi highlighted a unique ethical responsibility. She said, “We have a responsibility for each other, for every human being. Whether we are brothers and sisters in faith or simply fellow human beings, we are called to treat each other with dignity. The key question we are asked in Shia tradition is: What’s your stand on the oppressed? That is the difference. In many global systems, particularly in the West, this question is rarely asked—it is often ignored or avoided.”
In her interview with ABNA following the Congress, Sister Hashemi described the pre-meeting as highly constructive. “Alhamdulilah, it was very good. We had excellent speakers, and the discussions were meaningful. It can be extremely effective, especially if we maintain the connections we’ve made and share the information everyone brought from different parts of the world. We gained a clearer understanding of what is happening across our Ummah and beyond,” she said. She added that the back-and-forth of ideas and debates during the Congress helped participants identify problems and consider practical solutions.
Sister Hashemi also addressed the visibility of different Imams, noting that while Imam Hussain (AS) is widely known, others, like Imam Reza (AS), are less familiar, especially among non-Shias. “Any additional information we can provide, particularly from Shia sources, is important,” she said. “Sharing speeches and papers online, making them accessible, can play a huge role in education. Even some Shias only know Imam Hussain. There’s still much work to do, and conferences like this are crucial for raising awareness.”
Regarding the participants’ ability to connect Imam Reza’s teachings to contemporary issues, Sister Hashemi said she was impressed by the papers and discussions. “I really enjoyed the debates. Last night, a few of us were together at the hotel for over two hours, discussing ideas and possible solutions. It was a meaningful exchange. We realized that, especially as foreigners living in Iran, we have a responsibility. Young people who haven’t seen other perspectives may idealize certain things, and we can influence them positively. Equally, we have a duty to share this information outside Iran.”
On the theme of resistance, Sister Hashemi was emphatic. “The resistance is remarkable. Despite the Israeli regime’s money, support, and highly advanced military, they could not crush it. They could not destroy it. Even after tons of bombs were dropped targeting Syed Hassan Nasrallah, the resistance became even stronger. It has awakened people worldwide to the true nature of these powers. They’ve shown their real face, and they can no longer control the narrative.”
Sister Hashemi concluded by stressing that Imam Reza’s teachings provide us with beyond spiritual guidance, a framework for practical action. By understanding human rights, dignity, and justice through his teachings, Muslims can engage with the world responsibly, confront oppression, and support movements of genuine resistance. She highlighted the importance of education, debate, and communication to share these lessons both within Iran and globally, arguing that they are more critical than ever as attacks and misinformation intensify around the Islamic Republic.
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