Wahabi Ideology Origin of Takfiri Groups
Speaking to IQNA on the sidelines of the 29th International Islamic Unity Conference in Tehran, Sheikh Qassem said Takfiri currents began to emerge with Wahabi support in reaction to the occupation of Afghanistan by the former Soviet Union.
He said Takfiri groups then spread to other parts of the world with the backing of Saudi Arabia.
The senior Hezbollah official noted that Takfiri ideology rejects all Muslim groups and Islamic schools of thought, including Sunni schools, and does not consider any group except Takfiris, themselves, as Muslim.
He said Takfiri groups pose greater threat to Sunnis than Shia Muslims and followers of other schools of thought.
Asked on ways to counter Takfiris, Sheikh Qassem said it can be done through promoting the true Muhammadan Islam and enhancing unity among Shia and Sunni scholars.
He referred to verse 103 of Surah Al Imran (3) "And hold fast to the Rope of Allah, and be not divided among yourselves,” and said Muslim unity would help to counter Takfiri groups.
He also referred to the recent victories in the fight against Takfiri terrorists in the region and expressed hope that, God-willing, these victories will continue.
The 29th International Islamic Unity Conference kicked off in Tehran on Sunday with the participation of hundreds of Shia and Sunni scholars and thinkers from over 70 countries.
The current crises facing the Islamic world were the main subjects discussed in the international event, which concluded on Tuesday afternoon.
