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Iran’s top Shia cleric, Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi, has issued a fatwa branding Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu as "enemies of God." Read the full analysis here.
Introduction
In a striking religious decree, Iran’s senior Shia cleric Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi has declared former US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as "enemies of God." This fatwa (Islamic religious ruling) comes amid heightened tensions between Iran, the US, and Israel, reflecting the deep ideological and geopolitical divide in the Middle East.
But what does this fatwa mean? How could it impact Iran’s relations with the West? And why has Ayatollah Shirazi taken such a strong stance? Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Fatwa: What Was Said?
In his decree, Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi stated:
"Any person or regime that threatens the Leader [Iran’s Supreme Leader] or Marja [high-ranking clerics] is considered an enemy of God."
This places Trump and Netanyahu in the same category as those who oppose Iran’s religious and political leadership—a severe condemnation in Shia Islam.
Key Points of the Fatwa:
Targets: Donald Trump (for aggressive US policies under his administration) and Benjamin Netanyahu (for Israel’s stance against Iran).
Religious Justification: Positions them as adversaries of divine authority by threatening Iran’s leadership.
Political Context: Comes amid ongoing US sanctions and Israeli-Iranian hostilities.
Why Now? The Geopolitical Backdrop
This fatwa isn’t just a religious statement—it’s deeply political. Here’s why it matters:
1. US-Iran Tensions Under Trump
Trump’s administration withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal (JCPOA) in 2018.
Maximum pressure policy led to crippling sanctions, hurting Iran’s economy.
The US drone strike that killed General Qasem Soleimani (2020) escalated hostilities.
2. Israel’s Stance Against Iran
Netanyahu has publicly opposed Iran’s nuclear programme.
Israel has been accused of cyberattacks and assassinations targeting Iranian scientists.
The two nations remain in a proxy conflict across the Middle East (e.g., Syria, Yemen).
3. Iran’s Internal Politics
The fatwa reinforces loyalty to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.
Strengthens hardline rhetoric ahead of elections and negotiations with the West.
What Does "Enemy of God" Mean in Shia Islam?
In Shia theology, an "enemy of God" (mufsid fil-ardh) is someone who actively opposes divine will—often linked to oppression or corruption. Historically, this label has been used against:
Yazid ibn Muawiya (battle of Karbala).
Saddam Hussein (during the Iran-Iraq war).
Modern adversaries (US, Israel, Saudi Arabia).
Possible Implications:
Religious Mobilisation: Could justify resistance against the US and Israel.
Diplomatic Fallout: May harden Iran’s stance in nuclear talks.
Propaganda Tool: Strengthens anti-Western sentiment domestically.
How Will the US and Israel Respond?
Neither Trump nor Netanyahu has officially reacted yet, but past responses suggest:
US: Likely dismiss it as propaganda; may tighten sanctions.
Israel: Could use it to justify further anti-Iran actions.
Iranian Opposition: Reformists may criticise the fatwa as provocative.
Conclusion: A Fatwa with Far-Reaching Consequences
Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi’s fatwa against Trump and Netanyahu is more than just fiery rhetoric—it’s a political and religious statement reinforcing Iran’s defiance against Western pressure.
As tensions simmer, this decree could:
✔ Deepen Iran’s isolation from the West.
✔ Strengthen hardline factions in Tehran.
✔ Impact future negotiations on nuclear deals and regional conflicts.
What do you think? Is this a symbolic move, or will it escalate hostilities further? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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