International Shia Day marked to highlight ongoing persecution

International Shia Day marked to highlight ongoing persecution
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Shia Muslims around the world are marking the International Shia Day today, Thursday, June 12, in a campaign aimed at confronting the ongoing discrimination, oppression, and violence targeting followers of Ahlulbayt, peace be upon them. The annual observance comes amid continued crackdowns and attacks by extremist groups and authoritarian regimes, according to statements from the International Organization for the Defense of Shia Rights and several human rights groups.

In multiple statements received by Shia Waves Agency, the organizations stressed that Shia Muslims—including Twelvers, Zaydis, Ismailis, and Hazaras—constitute a significant portion of the global Muslim population. Despite their widespread presence, they continue to face systemic discrimination, violence, and persecution in many parts of the world.

The groups highlighted patterns of arbitrary arrests, killings, and even executions of Shias both within their home countries and abroad—acts often carried out by militant takfiri groups and hostile state actors.

International Shia Day was launched by the International Organization for the Defense of Shia Rights, a U.S.-based non-governmental and non-profit organization. The initiative seeks to promote justice and advocate for the rights of Shia Muslims worldwide by raising awareness about the violence and marginalization faced by members of the community.