Hawzah News Agency- In his meeting with Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, at Imam Reza shrine on January 8, Hujjat al-Islam Ahmad Marvi congratulated the month of Rajab (7th month on the lunar calendar) and the grand celebrations of this auspicious month.

“Iraq, Iran, and the region are in sensitive conditions with enemies plotting against them. With God’s grace, and by following the Ahl al-Bayt and unity among Muslims, threats can be turned into opportunities”, Hujjat al-Islam Marvi remarked.

He referenced the events of Karbala, stating that after the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, the Umayyads thought Islam would perish. “However, Imam Zain-ul-Abidin and Hazrat Zainab turned the enemy’s threat into a historic opportunity, leading to the downfall of the Umayyads and the flourishing of the Ahl al-Bayt’s teachings”.

Hujjat al-Islam Marvi highlighted the opportunities for cooperation between Iran and Iraq, both followers of the Ahl al-Bayt.

AQR’s Custodian emphasized the significance of pilgrimage as a key factor in strengthening the bond between the two countries, noting, “The timing of the Prime Minister’s visit with the month of Rajab and the anniversary of the martyrdom of Islamic commanders Abu Mahdi Al-Muhandis and Lt. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, whose sacrifice strengthened the brotherhood between Iran and Iraq, is a good omen”.

He added that around three million Iraqi pilgrims visit Imam Reza shrine annually, with special provisions made for their comfort to ensure they feel at home.

Hujjat al-Islam Marvi extended his appreciation for the Iraqi government and people for their hospitality, especially during Arbaeen Walk, and acknowledged the potential for further cooperation in economic, cultural, and scientific fields.

For his part, Prime Minister Al-Sudani expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality of Iran and Astan Quds Razavi, noting discussions on regional issues during his visit.

He highlighted the valuable services of Astan Quds Razavi to pilgrims, comparable to ministry-level work, and emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance services in Iraq’s holy sites.