Najaf: Sadrist Movement leader Muqtada al-Sadr has expressed his support for his followers who gathered from several Iraqi provinces to commemorate the martyrdom of Grand Ayatollah Muhammad Sadiq al-Sadr and his two sons. The assembly in Najaf listened to al-Sadr’s speech, where he criticized the individuals who attacked his followers, describing these attackers as corrupt. Al-Sadr, through a statement delivered by Minister of Leader Saleh al-Iraqi, emphasized his close observation of these attacks against the Iraqi Shiite popular base that reveres the al-Sadr family. He noted the honor he feels when surrounded by millions loyal to their authority and expressed indifference to the criticisms directed at him.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, al-Sadr remarked that the outcry from his critics only serves to please him, as it is indicative of their annoyance. He felt compelled to defend the loyal popular base, seeing it as both a religious and human obligation. Al-Sadr also highlighted his concerns over security during public gatherings, not out of personal fear, but for the safety of his followers. He emphasized that despite cherishing martyrdom, the threats against his followers remain significant, driven by their commitment to reform and their support for oppressed peoples, which garners hostility from various factions and militias.

Al-Sadr concluded his message with a prayer for unity and a commitment to the love of the homeland and reform, in alignment with the values of their ancestors. He urged adherence to divine and prophetic teachings, underscoring the importance of maintaining a righteous path.