Iraqi clerics show support for minorities
Iraqi clerics are showing wide support for historically persecuted minorities and working to dismantle the foundations of extremist ideology.
Iraqis of all religions, including Shiites and even Sunnis, have been facing serious tribulations. The theological foundations of the Islamic State (IS) need to be questioned and debunked so that they cannot be used as a pretext for extremists to persecute minorities.
Many clerics in Iraq have issued statements confirming the equality between all religions and criticizing some of the stereotyping of certain minorities. While Yazidis have been stereotyped the most, significant religious and social solidarity with the Yazidis is emerging, even among clerics and other religious leaders.
Iraqi cleric Hussein al-Sadr issued a fatwa on the massacre of Yazidis, writing on his website, "What is happening to our brothers in the homeland at the hands of terrorists saddens us greatly. It is an injustice, a crime and inhuman act that does not go in line with human and divine laws and there is no legal or religious justification for such acts."
He demanded that all Iraqis embrace minorities. "Protecting, embracing and helping minorities is a humanitarian, religious and moral duty. Our doors are open to receive them in the holy city of Kadhimiya. I ask all Iraqis to do everything in their power to help them and all other people who are being persecuted by terrorists, especially minorities who are helpless."
