Supreme Religious Authority in Nejaf Province – Iraq confirms the prohibition of killing anyone of the Iraqi people regardless of their denominations

May 31, 2013. Second part of the Friday sermon held in the Imam Hussein holy shrine, the representative of the supreme religious authority and the preacher of the Friday sermon in Kerbala city, his eminence Sheikh Abdul Mehdi El-Kerbala’i mentioned that the Supreme Religious Authority represented by Grand Ayatullah Sayed Ali El-Husseini El-Sayestani, (May Allah bless him) confirmed the prohibition of killing anyone of the Iraqi people regardless of any denomination they are subscribed to. Also, he confirmed the prohibition of any violent or riot actions performed by anyone.His eminence shed light upon the necessity of strengthening the security forces in order to ensure a better life for the citizens. His eminence also mentioned that any violent action is against humanity and breaching the humanitarian principles. Also said that all kinds of violence are strongly rejected regardless of any community subscribed to any denomination weather they are Sunny or Shiite, and Muslims or non-Muslims based on a verse of Noble Quran which says, “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah , witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what you do.” El-Ma’idah Surah.He also confirmed that all governmental and non-governmental entities, media, scholars, politicians and tribal chiefs must confirm the prohibition of any violations and take part in the society more than the usual seeking the best levels of safety.He concluded by saying, “The pilgrimage of the Imam El-Kadhim’s death commemoration is coming soon, and all pilgrims should be cooperative with the security forces in order to make peace keeping plan easily maintained. Also, notable people should spread the principles and thoughts of peaceful coexistence among Iraqi people.”Translated by: Mohammed Jasim