A number of scholars and muftis in the Islamic world condemned what they described as 'brutal Iranian aggression' against several Gulf, Arab, and Islamic countries, emphasizing their rejection of targeting residential areas and civilian objects. They stressed the right of the attacked nations to take necessary measures to protect their security and sovereignty.
The scholars, in communications and messages received by the Muslim World League, clarified that these attacks represent an unacceptable behavior that contradicts the principles of Islamic brotherhood, especially since they originate from a state considered part of the Islamic world, which does not face these countries militarily.
Details of the Incident
The scholars affirmed that this aggression represents a 'betrayal of the nation' and a violation of the bonds of brotherhood and good neighborliness, pointing out that such practices are inconsistent with the values promoted by Islam, as well as with calls for unity among the Islamic ranks. They also noted that what is happening can only be interpreted in the context of negative accumulations and miscalculations, warning that the continuation of these attacks could lead to an 'Islamic isolation' for Iran, with consequent repercussions on its relations with the Islamic world.
The scholars emphasized that targeting countries and civilian facilities constitutes a clear violation of international law principles, undermining efforts aimed at enhancing rapprochement and understanding among Islamic countries, particularly within the framework of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.
For his part, the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdul Karim Al-Issa, expressed his appreciation for the positions of the scholars of the nation, praising their commitment to Islamic unity and strengthening the bonds of brotherhood. He affirmed that these positions reflect a collective awareness of the seriousness of what the region is witnessing.
Context and Background
These statements come at a time when the region is witnessing escalating tensions, as the UAE and Bahrain announced on Wednesday the interception of new waves of drones, in response to ongoing Iranian attacks targeting their territories. Both countries confirmed their continued high readiness to protect national security and address threats.
In the UAE, the Ministry of Defense announced that air defenses dealt with 9 drones coming from Iran, bringing the total number dealt with since the onset of the attacks to 357 ballistic missiles, 15 cruise missiles, and 1815 drones. It clarified that these attacks resulted in the martyrdom of 3 armed forces personnel, in addition to the deaths of 6 civilians of various nationalities, and injuries to 166 individuals with varying degrees of injuries.
In Bahrain, the General Command of the Bahrain Defense Force announced that air defense systems dealt with 30 drones on the same day, as part of successive waves of attacks, raising the total intercepted and destroyed since the beginning of the assaults to 153 missiles and 331 drones. The General Command confirmed the readiness of its forces and the vigilance of its personnel, praising the operational efficiency that contributes to protecting the kingdom's airspace.
Impact and Consequences
Concerns are growing that these attacks could lead to greater escalation in the region, which may negatively affect relations between Islamic countries. Scholars warned that the continuation of these aggressions could lead to the disintegration of Islamic bonds and increase tensions between Iran and neighboring countries.
Moreover, these events could impact regional security, as Arab countries seek to enhance cooperation and understanding among themselves to face common challenges. Scholars believe that military escalation does not serve the interests of the Islamic nation but may lead to further divisions.
Significance for the Arab Region
In light of these developments, the importance of enhancing Islamic unity and avoiding escalation becomes evident. The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, expressed his country's full support for Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need to stand firmly against Iranian aggressions. This position reflects the growing Arab awareness of the necessity to confront any threats to national security.
In conclusion, this escalation in Iranian aggressions poses a significant challenge to security and stability in the region, necessitating Islamic countries to adopt unified positions to protect their sovereignty and security.