Arbaeen is greatest display of solidarity among Islamic Ummah: AQR custodian

In a meeting with new Iraqi Ambassador to Iran at Razavi shrine, Ayatollah Ahmad Marvi, custodian of Imam Reza holy shrine stated: “Arbaeen is an amazing and unique phenomenon; a completely grassroots movement rooted in sacrifice, selflessness, generosity, and service”.
Expressing condolences for the martyrdom of a number of Hashd al-Shaabi forces, Ayatollah Marvi stated: “The recent crime, in my belief, was revenge for the grandeur of the funeral of Martyred Imam; but they do not know that such criminal acts will not help them achieve their goals. Such actions resemble the reaction of a child who, when faced with their helplessness, can do nothing but vent their anger”.
He added: “The Iranian and Iraqi nations are one nation. In my belief, one of the factors that prompted the enemies to incite Saddam to attack Iran was their attempt to prevent solidarity, unity, and cohesion between the two nations. They knew that Iran and Iraq, with their vast God-given resources and shared culture of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS), would become a great and influential power in the region, one that other countries in the region would not be able to confront. Therefore, they imposed an eight-year war on the two nations.”
Stating that the enemy is unaware of divine traditions and unseen aid, Ayatollah Marvi said: “The enemies did not achieve any of their goals, including toppling the Islamic Republic, destroying missile capabilities, and eliminating the country’s nuclear capabilities. On one side of this confrontation was a global superpower, and on the other was the ruthless Zionist regime, both of which possess nuclear weapons. Yet, despite all their capabilities and support, they failed to achieve their goals.”
Ayatollah Marvi continued: “God has promised that if we trust in Him, He will help us. If our reliance were on a power other than God, we would undoubtedly be defeated; but our reliance is on a power superior to all powers. This is a truth that all politicians must understand and always keep in mind.”
The AQR chief custodian added: “To believe this truth, there is no need even to study history, because divine victory is intertwined with our daily lives, and God has repeatedly shown His power, will, and help to His servants. Although the enemy inflicts damage, as long as the nation trusts in God, they will never achieve their goals.”
Ayatollah Marvi added: “Ashura is the peak of struggle, sacrifice, and the oppression suffered by the Ahl al-Bayt (AS). The dignity, independence, and freedom of nations are safeguarded through steadfastness and resistance; but any form of submission or retreat before the enemy not only emboldens them but also deprives people of divine victory and grace.”
He continued: “Enemies are fundamentally opposed to the life and dignity of Muslims, especially Shia Muslims. If they give the green light to certain countries or movements, this is not out of benevolence but in line with securing colonial interests and exploiting them. In truth, they are full of malice and hatred toward Muslims, especially followers of the school of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS), and this reality must therefore be properly explained to society.”
Ayatollah Marvi noted: “We enjoy divine support, and God has promised: ‘And Allah will surely support those who support Him.’ Undoubtedly, God will help those who help His religion. Also, in the verse, ‘If you support Allah, He will support you and plant your feet firmly,’ the promise of victory and steadfastness is given. Today, we can clearly see the manifestations of this divine promise in the endurance and perseverance of the people who stand their ground by being present on the scene.”
He went on to say: “There are some countries along the Persian Gulf that submit to dominant powers. Even despite offering concessions and gifts, not only were they not appreciated, but they were called cows. However, they have not yet learned a lesson from this reality, whereas if they stand alongside their own nations, they will be able to stand against the enemies.”
He added: “The enemy is always trying to create division, hatred, and rifts between the two nations of Iran and Iraq to prepare the ground for their dominance and influence. But by divine grace, the bond, unity, and solidarity between the two nations will grow stronger day by day, and this empathy can pave the way for the realization of divine ideals and hasten the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (AS).”
The AQR custodian further said: “Every effort must be made to facilitate pilgrimage for Iraqi pilgrims. Hosting them is our duty, and they must feel secure, peaceful, and comfortable. Accordingly, the Dar al-Marhamah Portico and Ghadir Courtyard have been dedicated to Iraqi pilgrims so that they can perform mourning rituals and pilgrimage according to their own customs.”
Concluding his remarks, Ayatollah Marvi said: “Regardless of their position, occupation, or nationality, everyone is a pilgrim of Imam Reza (AS), and we make no distinction between pilgrims. Our duty is to serve and host all of them equally.”