Saudi Shia cleric urges cooperation with security forces for Ashura mourning rituals

A Shia cleric in Saudi Arabia has called for Shia citizens’ cooperation with security forces for the mourning rituals on the day of Ashura, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him.

A Shia cleric in Saudi Arabia has called for Shia citizens’ cooperation with security forces for the mourning rituals on the day of Ashura, marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him.

According to Jahina website, Sheikh Wajdi Mubarak in comments posted on his social media accounts said there should be full cooperation between the citizens and security forces during the mourning rituals.

He also said Ashura mourners should avoid disrupting traffic, maintain order and promote a spirit of cooperation among all social groups.

Shia Muslims around the world are making preparations for ceremonies held every year in Muharram (the first month in the lunar Hijri calendar) to mourn the martyrdom anniversary of Imam Hussein, peace be upon him, and his faithful companions in the 680AD Battle of Karbala.  

In Saudi Arabia, some sources estimate the percentage of Shias from 15 to 20 percent of the population of approximately 20 million.

The Shia population is primarily concentrated in the country’s Eastern province, chiefly Qatif and Al-Ahsa.