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        <title>Islam Times - Latest News Islam World :: Full Edition</title>
        <description><![CDATA[Produced by: Islam Times]]></description>
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        <lastBuildDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 03:20:32 GMT</lastBuildDate>
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            <title>Islam Times - Latest News Islam World :: Full Edition</title>
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            <description><![CDATA[Produced by: Islam Times]]></description>
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        <copyright>Copyright (c) Islam Times, all rights reserved.</copyright>
        <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2026 03:20:32 GMT</pubDate>
        <category>Islam World</category>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
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        <item>
            <title>PUIC Chief Voices Solidarity with Iran</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/news/1290851/puic-chief-voices-solidarity-with-iran</link>
            <description><![CDATA[In a message to Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Qureshi Nias said that as the people of Iran and the Islamic Ummah bid farewell to Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei and his family, he was conveying his sincere condolences and deepest sympathy on behalf of himself and the PUIC Secretariat.

He asked Qalibaf to convey the union&#39;s condolences to the brotherly people of Iran and the family of the martyred Leader.

The PUIC secretarygeneral said the union shares the grief and sorrow of the Iranian nation over the great tragedy and prayed to Almighty God to bestow His infinite mercy upon the martyred Leader and those martyred alongside him and bless their family members, survivors, and the Iranian people with patience and perseverance.

Qureshi Nias also reaffirmed the PUIC&#39;s solidarity with Iran during what he described as this eventful period.

The main funeral procession for martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution took place in the Iranian capital of Tehran on Monday, with large crowds taking to the streets from the early hours to participate in the historic ceremony.

Following Tuesday&#39;s ceremonies in Qom, funeral and tribute events will continue in the Iraqi cities of Najaf and Karbala on Wednesday at the request of Iraqi religious and political leaders, before concluding with the burial of Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei at the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS) in Mashhad on Thursday.

Ayatollah Khamenei was martyred in a joint US-Israeli strike on Tehran on February 28, 2026, at the outset of a 40-day war of aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran.

His assassination triggered widespread condemnation and mourning across Iran and the Axis of Resistance, with participants in the funeral ceremonies carrying red flags as a declaration that the demand for justice and retribution for the martyred Leader remains alive.]]></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 05:20:26 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Ashura; Symbol of Struggle Between Righteousness, Falsehood</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/article/1288166/ashura-symbol-of-struggle-between-righteousness-falsehood</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Observed by Muslims worldwide, the Day of Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) at the Battle of Karbala on Muharram 10, 61 AH (October 10, 680).&nbsp;

This event continues to inspire Shia Muslims and others to emulate Imam Hussein&#39;s pursuit of independence and liberation.

Imam Hussein (AS), revered for his piety, opposed Yazid&#39;s succession as caliph in Damascus due to Yazid&#39;s unsuitability.

The events of Ashura, though brief, were pivotal. Despite efforts to erase its memory, Ashura&#39;s lessons endure, with millions mourning the injustice against Imam Hussein.

Shia Muslims observe special rituals during the first 10 days of Muharram, marked this year from July 19 to 28. Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims travel to Karbala, Iraq, to visit Imam Hussein (AS)&#39;s shrine.&nbsp;

These days commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) and seventy-two of his followers, who died thirsty in battle against Yazid&#39;s forces.

Mourning rituals include wearing black and adorning streets, mosques, and Husayniyahs with mourning flags.&nbsp;

Ashura, a day of profound mourning for Shia Muslims, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein at Karbala, Iraq.

Mourning rituals and passion plays re-enacting the event are central to the observance.

These Muharram mourning ceremonies are a cornerstone of Shia culture, observed globally in diverse ways. Pilgrimages to Imam Hussein&#39;s shrine in Karbala are also common.

Ashura&#39;s significance transcends Islamic history, embodying universal values of humanity, courage, and honesty.

Its commemoration, even by non-Muslims, honors these principles. Some communities prepare special foods and distribute them to the poor, symbolizing charity and remembrance. Others engage in blood donation drives, reflecting the sacrifice made by Imam Hussein.

The act of mourning itself is viewed as a powerful form of devotion, a way to connect with Hussein&#39;s suffering and reaffirm one&#39;s commitment to justice.

Ashura remains a potent symbol of resistance against oppression and a call for moral rectitude, resonating deeply within Shia communities and inspiring reflection on universal ethical principles.

In Iran, the night of Ashura, Shaam-e Ghariban (&quot;the night of strangers&quot;), is marked by candle lighting in holy places.&nbsp;

The tragedy is also observed in countries with significant Shia communities, including Iraq, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Lebanon, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Syria.

Iranians hold mourning processions and listen to elegies. Distributing &quot;Nazri&quot; (votive food) is a central ritual, with kiosks and stalls offering food and drink, including tea and fruit juices. Even non-Muslims participate, receiving food from neighbors.&nbsp;

This tradition has become industrialized, with companies offering Nazri. In Tehran, families prepare various dishes to share with neighbors.

Ta&#39;zieh performances, registered on UNESCO&rsquo;s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, depict religious, historical, and mythical stories through poetry, music, song, and motion.

These dramas portray the events of Ashura, drawing from Iranian music traditions and dating back to the 9th century. Their performance flourished during the Safavid and Qajar eras.

Master miniaturist Mahmud Farshchian created &ldquo;The Evening of Ashura&rdquo; both to depict one of the greatest tragedies for Muslims and to represent the power of art in expressing major events of history.

The masterpiece portrays the helpless household of Imam Hussein (AS), mourning after his horse returns from the battlefield without him. Their deep grief for their beloved has been depicted perfectly in this Persian miniature painting.

Karbala represents the confrontation between truth and falsehood, justice and prejudice, courage and worldliness.&nbsp;

The Muharram ceremonies embody the eternal struggle for truth against falsehood and the fight against injustice, tyranny, and oppression.
The Day of Ashura serves as a potent reminder of the sacrifices made for principles and the unwavering commitment to justice, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

It is a testament to the enduring power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit.

The story of Imam Hussein (AS) is not confined to history; it is a living narrative that continues to resonate with people of all backgrounds who yearn for a world free from oppression and imbued with righteousness.

The rituals and traditions associated with Ashura are not merely acts of mourning; they are profound expressions of solidarity with Imam Hussein (AS) and his followers.&nbsp;

They serve as a call to action, urging individuals to stand up against injustice and to strive for a more equitable and compassionate world.&nbsp;

The black attire, the mourning flags, the elegies, and the Nazri all contribute to a collective experience of grief and remembrance, strengthening the bonds of community and reinforcing the values of empathy and compassion.

The pilgrimage to Karbala is a spiritual journey undertaken by hundreds of thousands of devotees each year, seeking to connect with the spirit of Imam Hussein (AS) and to draw inspiration from his unwavering faith.

The shrine of Imam Hussein (AS) is a beacon of hope and a symbol of resistance against tyranny, drawing pilgrims from all corners of the globe.&nbsp;

The atmosphere of devotion and reverence that permeates Karbala during Muharram is palpable, creating an environment of profound spiritual transformation.

The tradition of Nazri, or votive food, is a powerful expression of generosity and compassion. It transcends religious boundaries, fostering a sense of community and shared humanity.&nbsp;

The act of offering food and drink to mourners and neighbors is a tangible demonstration of empathy and a reminder of the importance of caring for those in need.&nbsp;

The industrialization of Nazri, while reflecting modern trends, also underscores the enduring significance of this tradition.

Ta&#39;zieh performances are a unique and captivating art form that brings the story of Ashura to life.

Through poetry, music, song, and motion, these dramas vividly depict the events of Karbala, engaging audiences on an emotional and intellectual level.&nbsp;

The recognition of Ta&#39;zieh as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO highlights its significance as a cultural treasure and its enduring relevance in the modern world.

In essence, Ashura is a profound and multifaceted commemoration that transcends time and space.

It is a reminder of the eternal struggle between good and evil, truth and falsehood, justice and injustice. It is a call to action, urging individuals to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity, and to strive for a world where the principles of compassion, empathy, and justice prevail.

The legacy of Imam Hussein (AS) continues to inspire millions around the world, making Ashura a powerful and enduring symbol of hope and resistance.

&nbsp;]]></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2026 05:39:50 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Tasu’a; Day of Loyalty, Resistance in Shia History</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/news/1287937/tasu-a-day-of-loyalty-resistance-in-shia-history</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Tasu&rsquo;a is the ninth day of Muharram, one of the important days for Shia Muslims which is related to the event of Karbala, dating back to the year 61 Hijra.

The Day of Tasu&#39;a is the last day Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions spent the night on and that day is remembered with the &ldquo;Eve of Ashura&rdquo;.

Tasu&rsquo;a is associated with Imam Hussein&rsquo;s half-brother, Abolfazl al-Abbas, who fought alongside the Imam against the army of Yazid. Abolfazl is highly revered among Muslims as a symbol of loyalty.

On the ninth day of Muharram, Shemr entered Karbala with a letter written by Ubayd Allah ibn Ziyad, in which, Umar ibn Sa&rsquo;ad was requested either to show seriousness in contact with Imam Hussein (PBUH) or delegate the commandership of the army to Shemr.

Umar Sa&rsquo;ad prevented delegating commandership of the army to Shemr and prepared to wage war against Imam Hussein (PBUH).

With the rush of armies on the day of Tasu&rsquo;a, Imam Hussein (PBUH) sent Abolfazl al-Abbas (PBUH) and urged them to give a moratorium to pray and recite the Holy Quran.

According to historical resources, Shemr on the forenoon of the Tasu&rsquo;a along with 4,000-member military men entered Karbala land and territory, carrying a letter from Ubayd Allah ibn Ziyad addressed to Umar ibn Sa&rsquo;ad. In this matter, ibn Ziyad had requested ibn Sa&rsquo;ad either force Imam Hussein (PBUH) to accept allegiance or prepare himself for battle.

Umar ibn Sa&rsquo;ad, after reading the letter, appointed Shemr as commander of the infantry of his army.

On this day, Shemr sent a guarantee of safe conduct to Abolfazl al-Abbas (PBUH) and other offspring of Umm ul-Banin but Hazrat Abbas (PBUH) did not accept. Shia Muslims consider and attribute Tasu&rsquo;a to Hazrat Abbas (PBUH) and endear it like the Day of Ashura and mourn for the perfections of the Imam.

Historically speaking, the army of Yazid laid siege to Imam Hussein (AS) and his followers in the desert near Kerbala on the first day of Muharram. The Imam and his loyal supporters were massacred in battle 10 days later after he had refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid.

Tasu&rsquo;a; day of loyalty, resistance in Shia history

On the day of Tasu&#39;a, Muslims across the globe take to the streets to hold mourning rituals in commemoration of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad.

People in Iran and some predominantly Shia Muslim countries mark Tasu&rsquo;a with mourning by launching chest- and chain-beating religious boards.

Black-clad mourners take to the streets in Iran to mark Tasu&#39;a, the day before the third Shia Imam and 72 of his loyal companions were martyred by the authoritarian rulers of the time nearly 1400 years ago.

The ultimate tragedy here is that Imam Hussein (AS) was the grandson of Prophet Muhammad. Of his grandson, he says the famous words, Hussein is from me, and I am from Hussein. Allah loves whosoever loves Hussein.

Tasu&rsquo;a; day of loyalty, resistance in Shia history

For Shia Muslims all over the world, Tasu&#39;a is a special but extremely sad day.

War and fighting are prohibited during Muharram and festivities like weddings and birthdays are usually postponed to more appropriate days. People generally wear black out of respect or at least avoid wearing very bright colors.

The ritualistic bereavements of Muharram are a platform where various artistic genres like literature, painting, music, fiction, and drama are reconciled.

During Muharram, apart from mosques, each neighborhood sets up its establishment for the ceremonial processions of the month known as &lsquo;Tekkiyeh&rsquo;, which are venues for the gathering of mourners known as &lsquo;Heyat&rsquo; (literally meaning group or delegation) who honor the life of Imam Hussein (AS).

Tasu&rsquo;a; day of loyalty, resistance in Shia history

The resilient beat of drums and a few other instruments are heard as people weep in the hymns and men in black rhythmically flagellate their backs with two pairs of chains and beat their chests with open palms. This ritual is known as Sineh-Zani (beating the chest).

Other communal forms of mourning include Tazieh, which is a passionate play usually performed during the first ten days of Muharram, culminating in a passionate and emotional peak on the tenth (Ashura). Stories and characters involved in the Karbala battle are enacted by men and young children. Needless to say, these rituals are region specific and quite diverse. Major theatre houses in Iran also stage plays relevant to this month.

Tasu&rsquo;a; day of loyalty, resistance in Shia history

Tazieh, which recounts religious events, historical and mythical stories, and folk tales, was registered on UNESCO&rsquo;s List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in November 2010.

All government offices, universities, sporting arenas, cinemas as well as most tourist attractions like museums are closed during Tasu&rsquo;a and Ashura.

During Muharram, particularly on Tasu&rsquo;a and Ashura, people refrain from doing or saying things that may violate the honorable spirit of the month. Television and radio channels alter their timings and programs to accommodate more religious sermons, mourning songs, live ceremonies, and films about the spirit of the month.

Black as the color of mourning during this month is visible in people&rsquo;s attire, banners hanging from buildings, billboards, decoration of city walls, and in the writings on the rearview windows of cars.

&nbsp;]]></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:01:35 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Muslims Celebrate Eid al-Ghadeer</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/news/1283836/muslims-celebrate-eid-al-ghadeer</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Muslims from various walks of life are celebrating the auspicious occasion on Thursday, June 4, which annually falls on the 18th of Dhu al-Hijjah on the Islamic lunar calendar, with various ceremonies and rituals in different cities.

In capital Tehran, a grand ceremony has been organized in a route extending for 10 kilometers between the Imam Hussein (AS) and the Azadi (liberty) squares.

On the auspicious occasion, people come to streets and extend greetings and felicitations to each other, especially to the families who are descendants of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through his grandsons, Hassan ibn Ali (AS) and Hussein ibn Ali (AS), the sons of the Prophet&rsquo;s daughter Fatima Zahra (SA) and his son-in-law Ali ibn Abi Talib (AS).

Many young Iranian couples choose the auspicious event as their wedding date in the hope that their marriage is blessed with the memory of Imam Ali (AS).

Eid al-Ghadeer is also referred to as Eid al-Akbar (the Greatest Eid) in Islamic narrations, since Muslims are of the opinion that the mission of all the previous messengers of Allah became accomplished on this day.

On March 10, 632 CE, in the tenth year of Hijra, Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) received a revelation from God, ordering him to halt his last Hajj pilgrimage known as the Hajjat-ul-Wida (the Farewell Pilgrimage) at a pond called Khum, near Mecca, and to designate Imam Ali (AS) as his successor in guiding and ruling Muslims. The event took place a few months before the demise of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).]]></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 06:51:48 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Muslims Worldwide Celebrate Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/gallery/1282502/1/muslims-worldwide-celebrate-eid-al-adha-the-festival-of-sacrifice</link>
            <description></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 19:51:34 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Over 1.5 Million Pilgrims Begin Hajj amid Regional Tensions</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/gallery/1282500/1/over-1-5-million-pilgrims-begin-hajj-amid-regional-tensions</link>
            <description></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2026 19:38:50 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Millions of Pilgrims Gather on Arafat for Hajj’s Holiest Day</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/news/1282384/millions-of-pilgrims-gather-on-arafat-for-hajj-s-holiest-day</link>
            <description><![CDATA[More than 2.5 million Muslim pilgrims gathered on the plain of Arafat on Tuesday to observe the most sacred day of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, a central rite regarded as the spiritual peak of one of Islam&rsquo;s largest religious gatherings.

The mass movement of worshipers unfolded in an atmosphere described by authorities as orderly, with pilgrims arriving from Mecca and surrounding holy sites under coordinated transport and crowd management systems.

The Day of Arafah is widely regarded as the most significant moment of Hajj, when pilgrims stand in worship and supplication, seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal.

Mount of Mercy draws pilgrims in collective prayer

Large numbers of pilgrims moved toward Mount of Mercy (Jabal al-Rahma), where worshipers stood together in prayer, raising their hands in supplication in a scene defined by collective devotion and reflection.

The site holds deep historical significance in Islamic tradition as the location where the Prophet Mohammad delivered his Farewell Sermon during his final pilgrimage more than 1,400 years ago.

Today, the mountain stands as one of the most prominent landmarks of Hajj and serves as a focal point for worship on the Day of Arafah, a rite considered essential to the validity of the pilgrimage.

The plain of Arafat, located around 18 kilometres from the Grand Mosque in Mecca, transforms annually from an open desert into a densely populated temporary settlement hosting millions of pilgrims for a single day of worship.

Large-scale operations manage pilgrimage flow

Saudi authorities oversaw extensive logistical and security arrangements to manage the movement of pilgrims across the site, including transport coordination, crowd control measures, and field supervision.

Medical infrastructure was fully activated across Arafat, including hospitals, clinics, and emergency response units prepared to handle health incidents throughout the day.

Mount Arafat Hospital, alongside multiple field clinics and ambulance stations, remained on high alert as part of emergency preparedness operations during peak pilgrimage activity.

Civil Defense mountain rescue teams were also deployed in elevated and rocky areas surrounding the plain, equipped to respond to emergencies in difficult terrain and support rapid intervention where required.]]></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2026 18:57:43 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Mashhad Nominated for &quot;Tourism Capital of Islamic Countries&quot;</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/news/1279490/mashhad-nominated-for-tourism-capital-of-islamic-countries</link>
            <description><![CDATA[This decision, which was taken following expert-level studies by the Tourism Ministry&#39;s Marketing and Advertising Office, is considered a strategic step to strengthen Iran&rsquo;s position on the international tourism map and attract pilgrims and tourists from all over the Islamic world.

With the invitation of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) from member countries to introduce their representatives to compete for the title of tourism capital, the Islamic Republic of Iran, after a technical evaluation, introduced the metropolis of Mashhad as its final candidate.

This action, which was carried out with the focus of the Tourism Marketing and Advertising Office and the cooperation of foreign tourism development departments, was based on the unique potential of the holy city of Mashhad in the fields of religious and cultural tourism and the availability of advanced accommodation infrastructure. As a vibrant center of pilgrimage tourism in the region, Mashhad hosts millions of pilgrims annually, and this feature doubles the city&rsquo;s chances of acquiring this international title in 2030.

The final process of selecting the tourism capital, after expert studies at the May 2026 meeting in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, will enter a decisive phase. Finally, the selected city will be officially introduced at the meeting of the Tourism Ministers of the Member States (OIC) to be held in Doha, Qatar in December this year.

Experts believe that the possible selection of Mashhad as the tourism capital of Islamic countries is not only a golden opportunity to represent the true and attractive image of Iran on the global stage, but also can be a strong incentive for the development of infrastructure, strengthening cultural diplomacy and economic prosperity in the east and northeast of the country.

It is expected that with the finalization of this nomination, major plans for a worthy hosting of this international event in 2030 will be on the agenda from now on.]]></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 11 May 2026 01:29:30 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>From India to Mashhad: The Story behind Peacock Feathers in Imam Reza Shrine Rituals</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/news/1277177/from-india-to-mashhad-the-story-behind-peacock-feathers-in-imam-reza-shrine-rituals</link>
            <description><![CDATA[Many of the customs and ceremonies associated with the holy shrine of Imam Reza (AS) in Mashhad, like other cultural and historical features of the Iranian city, are rooted in a long-standing bond centered on the holy shrine&mdash;one shaped by faith, popular beliefs, and spiritual traditions that have endured for centuries.

Among these rituals, the ancient dusting ceremony holds a special place. With a history spanning nearly 500 years, it continues to be performed on specific occasions with formal and distinctive rites. Within this tradition, the use of peacock feathers in the dusting of the shrine, particularly the sacred tomb, carries an old and philosophical significance.

Javad Navaeian Rudsari, a historian and researcher in Razavi culture, said that throughout history, devotion to Imam Reza (AS) and his holy shrine has not been limited to followers of a particular religious background, noting that the grandeur of the shrine has drawn the hearts of all Muslims and sometimes even non-Muslims. He added that part of these ceremonies stems from the sincere devotion and divine love of the followers of the Prophet&rsquo;s Household.



Referring to the historical background of using peacock feathers in the shrine, he said it appears that employing peacock feathers as a ceremonial and highly valuable item for dusting in the holy shrine has a long history, although existing documents do not predate the Safavid era.

Navaeian Rudsari explained that since the peacock is native to India, donors who endowed such items were often Shiites from the Indian subcontinent. However, notable figures from other regions, including Iran, also contributed such precious offerings, although the source of the material was naturally India.

He further noted that among documents preserved at the Astan Quds Razavi Archives Center, there is a record dated 1111 AH (1078 SH), during the reign of Shah Sultan Hussein of the Safavid period, referring to the preparation of a broom made of peacock feathers for dusting the sacred shrine. He described this document as likely the oldest evidence of such usage.

The researcher added that the practice continued into the Qajar era, when the craftsmanship of binding peacock-feather brooms and decorating them with pearls and precious stones gained greater attention. One notable example, he said, is a broom endowed by the mother of Hassan Khan Salar, a ruler of Mashhad during the late reign of Mohammad Shah and early reign of Naser al-Din Shah Qajar. The broom, over one meter long, is now preserved in the Astan Quds Razavi Museum and is distinguished by its intricate pearl embroidery and decorations.

He also pointed to a specific vow involving the donation of peacock feathers, citing a document from 1312 SH concerning efforts by Seyed Baqer Hossein, an Indian Shiite residing in Hyderabad Deccan, to import a peacock-feather broom for use in dusting the sacred tomb of Imam Reza (AS). He said the offering was a gift by Seyed Baqer Hossein Deccani, with its transportation handled by a postal shipping company in Zahedan known as &ldquo;Khilanda Ram &amp; Bros.&rdquo;.]]></description>
            <category>Islam World</category>
            <pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:13:46 GMT</pubDate>
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            <title>Iran Expresses Reservations about OIC Statement on Regional Security</title>
            <link>https://www.islamtimes.com/en/news/1270916/iran-expresses-reservations-about-oic-statement-on-regional-security</link>
            <description><![CDATA[In a letter for UN Secretary-General Ant&oacute;nio Guterres and President of the UN Security Council Michael G. Waltz on March 24, Saeed Iravani expressed Iran&rsquo;s firm reservations regarding a statement issued by the OIC that erroneously characterizes Iran&#39;s position on issues pertaining to the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council.

What follows is the text of his letter:

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

Excellency,

I would like to refer to document No. S/2026/152, dated 12 March 2026, concerning the letter dated 9 March 2026 from the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of T&uuml;rkiye to the United Nations, transmitting, in his capacity as Chair of the Group of Member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in New York, a so-called document entitled &quot;OIC Group Statement on the Iranian attacks against the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf and other OIC Member States&quot;.

The communication was transmitted as a purported statement of the aforementioned Group, despite the absence of consensus and the fact that the draft text was never adopted by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The Islamic Republic of Iran twice broke the silence procedure on the draft, accompanied by formal proposals which, in accordance with established practice, should have been circulated to all Member States.

The document does not accurately reflect the discussions of the meeting held on 5 March 2026. During that meeting, several-though not all-participating delegations expressed views reflecting differing positions within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on recent regional developments. No consensus emerged, and no conclusions were adopted. Any characterization of the document as reflecting the outcome of that meeting is categorically rejected.

The circulated text further omits essential views expressed during the meeting, including those condemning the unprovoked and unjustified acts of aggression by the United States and the Israeli regime against the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as well as their brutal attacks against civilians, including women and children, and against civilian infrastructure. It also disregards arguments presented in support of Iran&#39;s inherent right of self-defense in response to attacks launched through the misuse of the territory of neighboring States and the military presence of the aggressors therein.

The Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations had already submitted, in good faith, its comments and proposals on both the title and substance of the aforementioned draft statement. It further underscored that Iran&#39;s objections to the unbalanced content of the text constitute principal and substantive opposition to its adoption as a Group position and do not amount to a mere reservation.

In accordance with the working methods of intergovernmental bodies, including the OIC Group in New York, any draft intended to reflect a Group position must first be circulated for comments and negotiation. The silence procedure may be initiated only once a draft reflecting the views of all members has emerged. In the present case, no discussion or negotiation took place prior to the initiation of the silence procedure, and the comments submitted by the Islamic Republic of Iran were not circulated to the membership, thereby denying Member States the opportunity to consider or respond thereto.

In light of these procedural and substantive deficiencies, and given that the process required for the adoption of a joint statement of the OIC Group of Permanent Representatives in New York was not completed, I wish to convey the firm position of the Islamic Republic of Iran in objecting to the submission and circulation of the letter dated 9 March 2026 from T&uuml;rkiye and its attachment as a purported OIC Group statement.

I should be grateful if you would have the present letter circulated as an official document of the Security Council under the agenda item entitled &quot;Threats to international peace and security&quot;.

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.]]></description>
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            <pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:12:07 GMT</pubDate>
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