Iraq’s Ayatollah Sistani and UN Special Representative meet on bolstering security and stability

NAJAF — United Nations Special Representative to Iraq, Ambassador Mohammed Al-Hassan, announced Monday a meeting with Iraq’s top Shia religious authority, Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani, to work towards enhancing Iraq’s security and regional standing. The announcement followed a meeting in Najaf between Al-Hassan and Ayatollah Sistani, during which both parties expressed commitment to fostering a stable future for Iraq.

“I was honored to meet with His Eminence Ayatollah Sistani, and I was inspired by his wisdom and vision for Iraq and the region,” al-Hassan said in a press conference. “The high regard in which Ayatollah Sistani is held, both in the Islamic world and internationally, is well-known, and I am grateful for this opportunity.”

Al-Hassan highlighted that he and Ayatollah Sistani agreed on joint efforts to “enhance Iraq’s standing,” with Ayatollah Sistani urging initiatives that prioritize Iraq’s interests. “We have the utmost respect for Ayatollah Sistani’s guidance, and his counsel is highly valued by special envoys,” al-Hassan added.

The United Nations reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Iraq. “Ayatollah Sistani expressed hope that Iraq would strengthen relations with neighboring countries. We remain dedicated to supporting Iraq’s priorities without intervention, providing guidance only when requested,” al-Hassan stated.

In a statement from Ayatollah Sistani’s office, the cleric welcomed the UN’s presence in Iraq and expressed hope for the mission’s success. He addressed the myriad challenges Iraq faces, urging Iraq’s leaders and informed citizens to “learn from past experiences and work tirelessly to secure a better future for all Iraqis, with security, stability, and prosperity.” He emphasized the importance of implementing scientific and practical plans grounded in efficiency and integrity, reducing foreign interference, enforcing the rule of law, restricting weapons to state institutions, and combating corruption at all levels.

Ayatollah Sistani also voiced “deep sorrow over the ongoing crises in Lebanon and Gaza,” lamenting the international community’s failure to effectively address the situation or protect civilians affected by aggression.