Hawzah News Agency- Hojatoleslam Ahmad Motahhari-Asl, the representative of the Supreme Leader in East Azerbaijan Province, made the remarks during a special broadcast of the "Saf-e Avval" program on Iran's Channel 2, aired from the city of Tabriz to mark the national "Iran-e Jan" (Iran, My Soul) event.
Honoring the 'Martyrs of the Altar'
Motahhari-Asl opened his remarks by paying tribute to Tabriz's "Martyrs of the Altar" — Ayatollah Ghazi Tabatabai, Ayatollah Madani, and Hojatoleslam Mohammad Ali Al-e Hashem — describing their legacy as a guiding light for the institution of Friday Prayer leadership across Iran.
He singled out Hojatoleslam Al-e Hashem for his tireless dedication to the people, saying the late cleric "redefined the bond between the pulpit and the heart of society." The cleric noted that the unprecedented voter turnout in East Azerbaijan during elections for the Assembly of Experts demonstrated that "people remain grateful to their sincere servants" — a model he said should inspire Friday Prayer leaders nationwide.
The Role of Friday Prayer Leaders in Governance
Expanding on the responsibilities of Friday Prayer leaders within Iran's Islamic governance framework, Motahhari-Asl said the position carries two core duties: "elevating spirituality and religious belief in society, and working tirelessly to resolve the material and spiritual problems of the people."
He described the role as that of a "spiritual father" to the community — one that demands direct presence on the ground, listening to people's concerns, and serving as a bridge between different segments of society and government institutions.
A History of Resistance
Analyzing the roots of East Azerbaijan's revolutionary character, Motahhari-Asl pointed to three key factors: devotion to the Guardianship (Velayat) and love for the Ahl al-Bayt (AS), which he said took root during the Safavid era; the region's reputation for patience and industriousness; and Tabriz's historic position on the Silk Road, which exposed its people to global developments while preserving their religious and national identity.
He noted that a historic mosque in Tabriz's old quarter contains a mihrab symbolizing centuries of coexistence among followers of different religions and sects — what he called a reflection of Azerbaijan's "broad-mindedness combined with religious zeal."
Mass Rallies as 'Divine Miracle'
Turning to recent mass gatherings in Tabriz, including over 200 consecutive nights of demonstrations during recent conflicts, Motahhari-Asl said the people took to the streets without fear even as the enemy sought to sow terror through airstrikes.
He called the sustained turnout a "divine miracle" that transcends conventional political analysis and referendums. "The Iranian nation has proven that the revolution does not depend on any single individual," he said. "It is anchored in the centrality of the Guardianship and the powerful presence of the people."
He added that Iran's people, inspired by their "martyred leader," view martyrdom "not as an end, but as the beginning of greater movements," and will remain at the forefront of sacrifice for the elevation of Islam and Iran.
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