Anbar: On its 12th anniversary, Anbar province celebrated the issuance of the fatwa of sufficient jihad, which was hailed by tribal, political, and security figures as a historic turning point in Iraq's battle against the ISIS terrorist organization. The fatwa, issued by the Supreme Religious Authority in 2014, played a crucial role in unifying national efforts and supporting security forces, ultimately leading to the liberation of Iraqi cities.
According to Iraqi News Agency, Sheikh Awad al-Jughaifi, head of the Jughaifa tribe and a leader in the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), emphasized the difficult circumstances Iraq faced during ISIS's control over several provinces and the retreat of some security forces at that time. The religious edict issued by the religious authority and the call for defensive jihad became a unifying national voice, to which Iraqis across diverse communities responded. This unity supported the armed forces and helped reorganize military and security efforts to combat terrorism. Al-Jughaifi highlighted the cooperation between the PMF, the army, the police, the Counter-Terrorism Service, and other security formations, which achieved significant successes in defeating ISIS and liberating Iraqi territory.
Al-Jughaifi remarked that the anniversary serves as a moment to honor the sacrifices of the martyrs and pray for their mercy and forgiveness, while wishing security and peace for Iraq and its people.
Ghanem al-Aifan, an academic, political analyst, and leader in the Azm Alliance, explained to the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that the fatwa of sufficient jihad is a pivotal event in modern Iraqi history due to its impact on security and social cohesion. It not only influenced the battlefields but also strengthened unity among various Iraqi communities, countering division and discord. Thousands of volunteers answered the call, contributing to the liberation of cities and the return of displaced persons to their homes.
Al-Aifan stressed the respect and reverence Iraqis hold for the fatwa and the role of the supreme religious authority, represented by His Eminence Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Ali al-Sistani. He noted that the calls for unity and coexistence accompanying the fatwa significantly influenced social peace and acceptance of others.
Haider Al-Abdali, Director of the Directorate of Combating Intellectual Terrorism in Anbar, told the Iraqi News Agency (INA) that the anniversary of the founding of the Popular Mobilization Forces is an occasion to remember the great sacrifices made by Iraqis in response to the fatwa. The Popular Mobilization Forces have demonstrated heroism and selflessness over the years, offering martyrs and wounded in defense of Iraq's security and stability. The fatwa contributed to unifying national efforts, achieving victory, and reinforcing values of belonging, sacrifice, and altruism.