Grand Shia Cleric: Strengthen the relationship between Islamic countries to counter Takfirism

Grand Ayatollah Lotfollah Safi-Golpaygani has met with Dr Hoseyn Sadeghi, the ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Ayatollah Safi-Golpaygani explained that relations with Islamic countries are of great importance, especially at the current time where we witness particular conditions prevailing in the region. We have witnessed the establishment of a [terrorist] group and a caliphate in the name of the divine religion of Islam, but they have distorted Islam and have deceived some ignorant Muslims with their message.

The renowned source of emulation stated that give the sensitive circumstances facing the region, the duties of all Muslims who are vigilant are very difficult. In order to show the thoroughly peaceful religion of Islam to the world, we must defend it and the governments must take do whatever they can to counterbalance these deviant groups, especially by improving relations between Islamic countries, we can thwart their conspiracies.

“In my humble opinion, the risk of the Takfiris is very serious, and governments must contemplate over this threat so that this evil can be removed from the region,” he said.

In another part of his remarks, Ayatollah Safi-Golpaygani said that international conventions must be respected in meetings and visits with international dignitaries. “By protecting the customs, dignity and independence of the country, we can eliminate many of the problems and show a spirit of friendship, ethics and truthfulness to the world,” he said.

In reference to the destruction of the Holy Jannat al-Baqi cemetery in Madinah by the Wahhabi’s in 1924 and other sacred places since then, the revered scholar explained: “This was great blow to the great history of the Islamic world and weakens the link of Muslims to the glorious history of Islam. This cemetery is holy to all Muslims, and their existence is a sign of the history of the expansion of Islam and a great honour for Muslims of that era, and we must honour them by protect and honour [their legacy].”

At the end of their meeting, Ayatollah Safi-Golpaygani prayed for Dr Sadeghi’s continued success as the ambassador of Iran to Saudi Arabia.

At the beginning their meeting, Dr Sadeghi, presented a report on the scope of his mission and on the specific situation of the region.



/129