In the statement, the Forum expressed its deep outrage at what it called a “shameless attack” on the dignity and leadership of Ayatollah Khamenei, who it described as a symbol of resistance, honor, and the awakening of oppressed nations.
“Once again, the face of global arrogance has shown itself through Donald Trump’s offensive and undignified language—exposing the depths of his ignorance, hatred, and disdain for the values of Islam and humanity,” the statement read.
Insult to the Leader is an Insult to the Ummah
The Forum emphasized that any insult directed at the Supreme Leader is not just a political attack, but an affront to the collective dignity of the Islamic world, including its scholars, seminaries, and believers across all nations.
“The Supreme Leader represents the steadfast front of resistance against global hegemony and Zionist aggression. To insult him is to insult every believer, scholar, freedom-seeker, and fighter for justice,” the Forum asserted.
The statement went on to highlight the unified support of the senior Shia religious authorities (Maraji Taqlid) for the Supreme Leader, noting recent public endorsements by Grand Ayatollahs Nouri Hamedani, Makarem Shirazi, Sobhani, and Shobeiri Zanjani. Their vocal defense of the Supreme Leader’s positions, the Forum said, reflects the strength and vitality of the Shiite religious establishment and the enduring principle of Wilayat al-Faqih.
Warning Against Normalizing Insults to Religious Leaders
The World Shia Studies Forum warned that allowing such disrespectful rhetoric to go unanswered could set a dangerous precedent in international discourse.
“Insulting the spiritual and national leaders of nations is a violation of ethical norms and international standards. If such actions are tolerated, they may embolden further transgressions against Islamic sanctities.”
The Forum urged Islamic intellectuals, religious institutions, scholars, and media figures to take a clear stand against what it called a “blatant violation of moral and diplomatic boundaries” and to prevent such provocations from becoming normalized in political culture.
A Message to Trump and His Supporters
In a powerful concluding message directed at Trump and his allies, the Forum declared:
“Do not imagine that an insult will diminish the authority of our leader. The voice of Ali of our time echoes in our souls, and in the storm of anger stirred among awakened nations, your words will carry no weight.”
The statement reaffirms the Forum’s unwavering support for the leadership of Ayatollah Khamenei and the broader resistance movement, positioning the Supreme Leader as a spiritual anchor in the struggle against tyranny and imperialism.
