Once again evil hands returned to violate the sanctity of the Askari shrine in Samarra by targeting the remaining minarets of this holy site. This heinous crime just shows the extent of the perpetrators? hatred towards the household of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and his family, and their relentless efforts to ignite the sectarian fire between the citizens of beloved Iraq.

The religious Marja?iyyah expresses its extreme anger and condemnation at this evil attack. It greatly regrets that the responsible authorities have not fulfilled their obligation in protecting this sacred Shrine and calls upon the beloved faithful, during these trying times, to be patient and exercise restraint and avoid any revenge action against innocent people and places considered holy to others.

We hope the government will take the initiative to implement its promise and take swift procedures to provide the required protection for the holy shrine and its reconstruction.

There is not power except the power of Allah The High and Mighty.

Seal of The Office of Ayatullah Seestani (long may he live) ? Najaf
27 Jumada al-Awal 1428H