“War Is No Picnic; It Is the Responsibility of Leaders to Act Prudently and Prevent Conflict”

Today, August 22nd, 2025, during the Friday prayer speech of the Sunni community in Zahedan, Shaikh-ul-Islam Mawlana Abdolhamid, referring to the exemplary conduct of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the importance of avoiding war, emphasized the necessity of prudent leadership to safeguard the nation’s interests and warned that extremists must not impose another war upon the country.

The Prophet Preferred Negotiation Over War at the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah
According to the official news portal of the Zahedan Sunni Friday Imam’s Office, Mawlana Abdolhamid recalled the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, noting that in the sixth year of Hijra, the Prophet (peace be upon him) set out for Umrah, but the people of Mecca prevented his entry. The Qur’an clearly affirms that the Sacred Mosque and the city of Mecca belong to all people, and no one has a greater right over it than another.
He stated: “To prevent bloodshed, the Prophet accepted the offer of peace. He controlled the emotions of his companions and, despite the readiness of Muslims for jihad, he preferred negotiation over war. Ultimately, this peace paved the way for the conquest of Mecca and facilitated the spread of Islam. The Companions succeeded because they obeyed the Prophet.”

The Cost of War Far Exceeds That of Negotiation
Criticizing those uncertain about choosing between negotiation and war, Mawlana Abdolhamid said: “Today, any official unsure whether war or negotiation is costlier should be reminded: war is no picnic. We witnessed the twelve-day war—how much of our national wealth was destroyed! Skilled military commanders and the nation’s youth were lost, nuclear facilities were damaged, over a thousand lives were taken, and the country sustained severe losses.”
He added: “The Prophet (peace be upon him) warned against desiring war and confrontation. War, whether against a strong or weak adversary, entails casualties, whereas dialogue incurs minimal cost and brings benefit and blessing.”

The Nation Suffers From Economic Hardship; Ensuring Security and Welfare is the Duty of Government
Mawlana Abdolhamid emphasized: “Our people face shortages of water, electricity, and bread, and endure many hardships. The foremost responsibility of governments is the welfare of the nation. Governments represent the people and must ensure their security and prosperity, protecting them from war, calamity, and poverty. This duty is established by religion, law, and societal norms.”

Extremists Occupy Decision-Making Centers
Referring to the opposing side, he stated: “The Israeli government is extremist, with its Prime Minister leading radical elements lacking logic. Yet we must act with reason. Unfortunately, extremists occupy decision-making positions within our own country, while moderates are sidelined. When extremists make decisions on both sides, conflict becomes inevitable.”
Addressing officials, he urged: “Leaders must act with wisdom, consult intellectuals and moderates, and employ prudence to neutralize conflict. Extremists must not be allowed to impose another war on the nation.”

Commitment to the Nation’s Interests
Senior Officials ought Must Give Due Consideration to the Condition of the People in Matters of Negotiations, War, and Peace
In conclusion, Mawlana Abdolhamid stated: “I have always prioritized the welfare of the nation and the country, speaking solely with goodwill. I hope senior officials take heed and consider the people’s welfare in all matters of negotiation, war, and peace.”