Hawzah News Agency, the late Imam Khomeini closely monitored regional developments—particularly the situation in Lebanon—with acute sensitivity even before the victory of the Islamic Revolution. In messages issued on January 21, 1977, and March 22, 1978, he expressed deep anguish over the wars and humanitarian crises devastating Lebanon, especially the Zionist regime's assaults on the country's south and the displacement of defenseless Muslims and Shiites. He stressed the urgent duty to assist the Lebanese people.
Imam Khomeini viewed the tragedy unfolding in Lebanon as a war engineered by "the hidden hands of the enemies of humanity to serve colonialism and Israel," one that had reduced Lebanon to a "horrific ruin." He described the suffering inflicted upon the faithful as beyond words, lamenting the thousands of families left without shelter or support amid winter's bitter cold.
While acknowledging humanitarian contributions—especially those from Iran—the Imam deemed them insufficient. He underscored the religious and human obligation of Muslims, particularly the wealthy and the zealous, toward the children of Islam and the survivors of martyrs who had "defended their honor and dignity like men." He went so far as to authorize the use of religious dues—the blessed share of the Imam—for this cause, urging all to race one another in dignified, honorable charity.
Following the triumph of the Islamic Revolution, Imam Khomeini continued his unwavering support. On June 9, 1979, during a meeting with Riyad Taha, a Lebanese Shiite journalist and head of Lebanon's Publishers Association, the Imam issued a short yet deeply resonant message to the Shiites of Lebanon.
Addressing them as "our brothers," in a tone charged with solidarity and compassion, the Imam voiced profound sorrow over the ongoing atrocities committed by the Zionists with American backing against Muslims, particularly the people of Lebanon.
In this message, the Imam declared unequivocally:
"We stand with you in the fight against Israel and America, and we hope that the army of truth will triumph over the satanic forces of tyranny."
He reminded the faithful that such calamities were "nothing new for Islam and Muslims," noting that the forces of oppression have always stood against Islam and warred against its people. He concluded by praying for the victory and success of all Muslims, sending his final words with divine blessings and peace.
The full text of the message reads:
In the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful
Our brothers,
After greetings and salutations, our attention remains fixed on the situation in Lebanon and the tragedies befalling our brothers. We are filled with the deepest sorrow over the anti-human actions being carried out by the Zionists with America's assistance against Muslim lands, especially the people of Lebanon and our brothers there. We pray that God Almighty, the supporter of the oppressed and downtrodden, extends His divine aid to you and all our brothers in this hour.
We stand with you in the fight against Israel and America, and we hope that the army of truth will triumph over the satanic forces of tyranny. Your sufferings and pains are nothing new for Islam and Muslims. The forces of tyranny have always opposed Islam and waged war against Muslims. I pray for your victory and the success of all Muslims.
And upon you be peace, and God's mercy and blessings.
Ruhollah al-Musawi al-Khomeini
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