WANA (Jul 07) – Following the insult to Shia religious authority and the threat to assassinate the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, the Iranian Ambassador to the Vatican wrote in a letter to Pope Leo XIV: “We expect Your Excellency to take a firm stance regarding the threats and insults directed at the esteemed Leader of Iran, which have not only offended Shia Muslims, but have hurt the feelings of all Muslims across various countries.”

 

In light of reports concerning statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the insult to Shia authority and the threat to assassinate the Supreme Leader, as well as the admission by officials of the Israeli regime regarding this dangerous act, the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Vatican, based on religious teachings and shared values, considers this threat not only targeting the guardian of the Muslim world and the leader of Muslims globally but also as a warning sign for all religious leaders around the world, beyond just one religion or sect.

 

Accordingly, Hojjat al-Islam Mohammad-Hossein Mokhtari, the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the Vatican, in an effort to raise awareness and out of duty to remind, wrote a letter to Pope Leo XIV. In the letter—while explaining the issue and pointing to the criminal acts of the Israeli regime and the United States in various parts of the world, particularly in the occupied territories—he stated:

 

“As a religious leader in the Christian world and one of the pioneers of strengthening interfaith dialogue and relationships—endowed with exceptional experience and skill in fostering unity and cohesion among communities and in reducing violence, who has always taken positive steps in this direction—you hold a respected and honored status among followers of Christianity and other religions, especially among Muslims.”

 

He added: “According to religious teachings, which are also mentioned in sacred texts and Christian tradition, insulting sacred figures is considered a sin and a sign of disrespect to God. Church Fathers and Christian theologians have clearly stated that respecting religious leaders—even in disagreement with them—is obligatory, and insulting and cursing religious leaders goes against justice, humility, and divine order.”

 

He continued: “It is clear that religious tolerance—which is a commendable and indeed necessary concept—can never justify insults to the leaders of other religions, and inherently condemns offensive speech and actions against the sanctities of other faiths.”

 

“Therefore, silence in the face of insults to a religious leader in the world will undoubtedly create division among the followers of Islam and other religions, and its consequences will affect everyone.”

 

“We expect Your Excellency to take a firm stance against the threats and insults directed at the revered Leader of Iran, which have not only insulted Shia Muslims but wounded the sentiments of Muslims across various countries.”