Why it matters:
The event highlighted Basra’s continued role in promoting unity, stability, and coordination among Iraq’s political, religious, and social components, while reaffirming support for the Axis of Resistance.
Flashback:
On January 3, 2020, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), acting on orders from then-President Donald Trump, assassinated Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, commander of the IRGC Quds Force, and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy commander of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Units (PMU). Both were leading figures in the fight against Daesh (ISIS).
The big picture:
The ceremony drew broad participation from officials, military commanders, religious leaders, and members of the public. Attendees included national, international, and provincial Iraqi officials, commanders of the Hashd al-Shaabi, members of parliament, and representatives of Sunni, Shia, and Christian tribes and communities.
Key Points:
- The Governor of Basra and the Iranian Consul General in Basra addressed the gathering alongside several political and religious figures.
- Speakers emphasized unity, coexistence, peace, and national solidarity as essential pillars of Iraq’s security and development.
- Participants highlighted the importance of maintaining ties within the Axis of Resistance and supporting its shared positions.
What they’re saying:
Speakers, including Ayatollah Kaabi, the Friday Prayer Leader of Iran’s Khuzestan Province, stressed respect for and adherence to the guidance of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, describing their leadership as a unifying reference for the region.
Residents and attendees at the ceremony called for stronger solidarity among the Hashd al-Shaabi (Iraqi Mobilization Units), the Axis of Resistance, and Iraq’s diverse ethnic and religious communities, stressing the importance of regional cooperation over division.
Go Deeper:
US terrorist forces assassinated leading commander in the fight against terrorism
Iran’s President Pledges to Continue Gen. Soleimani’s Path, Vows Resistance
seyed mohammad kazemi - seyed mohammad kazemi
