Al-Sadr calls for nationwide protests against ‘Zionist and American terrorism’

NAJAF — Influential Shia cleric Muqtada Al-Sadr called for “organized, peaceful demonstrations” across Iraq following this Friday’s prayers to protest what he described as “Zionist and American terrorism” and their “expansionist colonialism.”

In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, Al-Sadr urged supporters to gather in each provincial capital to condemn what he called “massacres” and violations against Arab and Islamic countries, naming Iran, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.

Al-Sadr cited religious and ideological motives for the protest, referencing the legacy of his father, Grand Ayatollah Mohammad Sadeq Al-Sadr. “‘No, no to Israel, no, no to America,’” he wrote, calling the United States “the primary instigator of all wars in the world.”

On Friday, Al-Sadr warned of Iraq’s potential entanglement in the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. “The flames of war have intensified,” he said. “Only God knows its outcome.” He blamed “the Zionist entity” for provoking the escalation with “direct American support,” and warned that Iran would not be the only country affected if the conflict continued.

Muqtada Al-Sadr’s full statement:

Based on religious, doctrinal, and humanitarian motives, it is necessary to hold organized, peaceful demonstrations after the upcoming Friday prayers. These demonstrations will be unified in each provincial center, in condemnation of Zionist and American terrorism, their expansionist colonialism, and their hostility towards peoples and religions. This includes the massacres and violations they are committing against Arab and Islamic countries such as the neighboring Iran, Palestine, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen.

We draw inspiration from the path of our marja’, Al-Sadr (may his noble soul be sanctified), who said: “No, no to Israel. No, no to America,” for it is the primary instigator of all wars in the world.

This is also a denunciation of the violation of our Iraqi airspace, which is internationally prohibited and will bring harm to the people, their sanctities, and their core values.

Accordingly, we draw the attention of those concerned to carry out their duties regarding this peaceful demonstration, without the participation of the corrupt. As the Almighty said: “Shall We treat those who believe and do righteous deeds as those who spread corruption in the land? Or shall We treat the pious as the wicked?”

Finally, I repeat what he (may his soul be sanctified) said in essence: Do not say a word or take an action except after consulting your hawza and your religious scholars. Peace be upon the people of peace, and God’s mercy and blessings be upon you.