Senior Shia Cleric Criticizes Western Media Silence on Arbaeen Pilgrimage

Senior Shia Cleric Criticizes Western Media Silence on Arbaeen Pilgrimage
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A senior Shia cleric has criticized Western media for ignoring the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage, describing it as the world’s largest religious gathering in both size and spiritual significance. Sayyed Murtadha Al-Kashmiri, the representative of the Supreme Religious Authority in Europe, made the remarks during a speech at the Arbaeen Preaching Project.

He said the event draws millions of participants each year, yet receives little to no international media coverage. Al-Kashmiri attributed the media silence to three key factors: the revolutionary nature of Arbaeen and its message of resistance to tyranny, widespread ignorance or distortion of Shia thought in the West, and shortcomings in promoting the event through modern media.

He called on followers of Ahlulbayt to take greater responsibility in presenting Arbaeen to the world in a universal, human language, rather than limiting it to sectarian or emotional expression. “While Western media celebrates trivial entertainment, it ignores an event that symbolizes sacrifice, justice, and spiritual awakening,” he said, urging the establishment of media centers to amplify the message of Arbaeen globally.