Days after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, a senior Iranian cleric issued a fatwa—a religious order—against both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Shirazi Labels Them “Enemies of God”
Grand Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi issued the fatwa in response to a question from a group of followers. They asked how Muslims should react to threats made by Trump and Netanyahu against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
In his ruling, Shirazi declared, “Any person or regime that threatens the Leader or Marja (May God forbid) is considered an enemy of God.” In Shia Islam, “Marja” refers to top clerics who have the authority to issue religious rulings.
He warned Muslims against siding with such figures. The fatwa stated, “It is necessary for all Muslims around the world to make these enemies regret their words and mistakes.” Shirazi also said it would be “haram”—religiously forbidden—to support such enemies in any way.
Fatwa Carries Religious Weight, Not Legal Force
A fatwa is a religious decree issued by an Islamic scholar. It answers questions about how to follow Islamic law. Although not legally binding, it can influence decisions in countries that apply Sharia-based legal systems.
Trump Claims He Protected Khamenei
The fatwa came shortly after Trump made controversial remarks about Khamenei. He claimed, “I saved Khamenei from an ugly and ignominious death,” and said he knew exactly where the Supreme Leader had been hiding during the conflict.
Israel Admitted It Was Targeting Iran’s Leader
During the 12-day conflict, Israel launched airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, beginning on June 13. These strikes killed several Iranian scientists and military commanders.
At the time, Defense Minister Israel Katz said, “I estimate that if Khamenei had been in our sights, we would have taken him out.” This statement suggested that Israel had considered assassinating the Iranian leader.
Meanwhile, Khamenei disappeared from public view, raising speculation about his safety and location.
Netanyahu Hinted at Eliminating Khamenei
Adding to the tension, Netanyahu also made a veiled threat. He said Israel was “doing what we need to do” and did not rule out targeting the Supreme Leader.
Ceasefire Brings Pause, Not Peace
The war ended when the United States brokered a ceasefire on June 24. While the fighting stopped, the fatwa from Shirazi shows that religious and political tensions are still high.