• Statements
• 2 Rajab 1424

English translation + Original text issued by the Office of Grand Ayatullah Seestani in Najaf in condemnation of the explosion that led to the martyrdom of prominent Ayatullah Sayyid Mohammad Baqir Al-Hakim and left hundreds of innocent people martyred & wounded.

In The Name of Allah The Most Compassionate, Most Merciful

“To Allah we belong and to Him is our return” (Holy Quran 2:156)

Once again evil hands have perpetrated a heinous crime next to the Alawi Holy Shrine (of Imam Ali a.s.) targeting His Eminence Ayatullah Sayyid Mohammad Baqir Al-Hakim (may he rest in peace). The macabre explosion led to the martyrdom of His Eminence and left hundreds of other innocent people martyred and wounded, inflicting extensive damage to the Holy Shrine and surrounding properties.
Behind this and previous barbaric crimes, in Najaf Al-Ashraf and other areas in Iraq, stand those who have no desire to see security and stability returning to this battered land. They strive to sow the seeds of turmoil and discord among the citizens. We are confident the Iraqi people are aware of this fact and will stand united. The enemies will not achieve their goals and they (the Iraqi people) will transcend the current tribulations.
While we condemn these despicable acts, we hold the occupying forces responsible for the absence of security and the upsurge in criminal activities in Iraq. Once again we call for the strengthening and support of Iraqi National Forces enabling them to provide security and stability.
We convey our sincere condolences to the family of the eminent martyr Sayyid Al-Hakim (may Allah be pleased with him) and to the families of all the glorious martyrs. We ask Allah Almighty to house them all in His vast paradise with their forefathers (prophet) Mohammad and his pure progeny, and to grant the wounded a speedy recovery – for Allah is All Hearing and He Answers Prayers. There is no might or power but with Allah the Most High, Most Great.

Seal of the Office of Grand Ayatullah Sayyid Ali Seestani
Najaf Al-Ashraf
2 Rajab 1424
(30 August 2003)