Grand Ayatollah Shirazi: All Battles of Holy Prophet, Amir al-Mu’minin Were Defensive

Another scholarly session led by Grand Ayatollah Sayyid Sadiq Hosseini Shirazi was held on the night of the 13th of Ramadan. During this session, the Supreme Marja addressed various jurisprudential questions from attendees, continuing the tradition of previous gatherings.

Grand Ayatollah Shirazi emphasized the conduct of the Holy Prophet and Amir al-Mu’minin (peace be upon them both) regarding the wars that occurred during their time, stating: “The Prophet and Amir al-Mu’minin never engaged in offensive jihad; all events that took place during their era were purely defensive.”

His Eminence further noted that all the battles fought by the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him and his family) occurred around Medina and none began in Mecca. He clarified that the conquest of Mecca was also not an offensive jihad but rather a defensive action.

Additionally, he stressed that offensive jihad occurs when non-believers remain in their places and Muslims attack them without justification, a scenario that did not happen during the time of the Prophet or Amir al-Mu’minin (peace be upon them both).

Grand Ayatollah Shirazi concluded by asserting that if non-believers are settled and have no intention of conflict with Muslims, war cannot be initiated against them. However, if they attack Muslims, then defense is certainly permissible.