The Qom Seminary, located in Iran’s second holiest city, is a century-old Shi’ite clerical institution that wields significant influence over the nation’s religious elite and governance. Comprising nearly 60 schools, it attracts tens of thousands of students, including international attendees, and has produced many of Iran’s key political figures. Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the state has increased its control over seminaries, intertwining them with government funding and oversight. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s influence extends through financial support and strategic control, shaping the clerical elite. While leadership remains male-dominated, over 3,000 women study in gender-segregated schools, focusing on religious education.
In an interview with Mehr News Agency, CNN Turk correspondent Fulya Ozturk expressed deep concerns over the violence in Gaza, particularly the intentional targeting of journalists and civilians by Israel. She noted a significant global shift in sentiment against Israel since October 7, with increased solidarity for Gaza’s plight. Ozturk emphasized the role of journalists in exposing atrocities and called for accountability for Israeli leaders. She criticized the isolation of Israel internationally and lamented the lack of unity among Islamic nations regarding Gaza. Ozturk urged continued advocacy for journalists and a collective Muslim effort to support Palestine amidst the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Iran has voiced support for forming an “inclusive” Syrian government through “free elections” and “comprehensive national dialogue,” as stated by its UN Ambassador Saeid Iravani during a recent Security Council meeting. He highlighted Syria’s severe humanitarian and economic challenges, calling for the lifting of U.S. and EU sanctions to aid reconstruction and the return of refugees. Iravani also stressed the urgent need to address terrorism, uphold community rights, and condemn Israeli violations of Syrian sovereignty. Iran reaffirmed its commitment to Syria’s sovereignty and stability, seeking collaboration with the UN and regional partners for lasting peace.
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Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to forcibly relocate Palestinians from Gaza, calling it a colonial agenda aimed at eradicating Palestine. During a meeting with Hamas leaders, Araghchi emphasized that this plan violates international law and humanitarian principles. He urged Islamic nations to unite against this “dangerous plot” and has called for an emergency meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Hamas official Muhammad Darwish reiterated that no force can displace Palestinians and highlighted their resilience amid ongoing violence. Iran’s leadership expressed support for the Palestinian resistance and acknowledged growing international backing for their cause.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) plans to hold an extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers to address a U.S.-Israeli plot to forcibly displace Gaza’s population, proposed by former President Donald Trump. Iran initiated this move, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi promoting a unified Islamic response. The meeting, expected in early March, follows extensive discussions with various countries, including Saudi Arabia and Turkey, and aims to condemn the controversial proposal. Araghchi has labeled the U.S.-Israeli plan as “dangerous” and called for decisive action to protect Palestinian rights, amidst widespread global condemnation and protests against the proposal.