'Harming Iranian leadership will have dangerous consequences': Ayatollah Sistani

June 19, 2025 by News Desk

Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani, the most revered Shia cleric in Iraq, has called on international actors and world governments to act swiftly and decisively to halt the escalating war in the region.

In a strongly worded appeal, Sistani emphasized that the continuation of hostilities could have disastrous consequences not only for the Middle East but for global stability.

“I call on international actors and the countries of the world to do their utmost to stop the war,” Sistani said, warning of the grave risks posed by deepening conflict and the potential for wider regional destabilization.

Sistani also issued a pointed warning against any harm to political or religious leaders in Iran, stressing that such actions would have “serious consequences for the entire region.”

His remarks come at a time of rising tensions, amid statements from Israeli officials that have been perceived as direct threats to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

In recent days, several Israeli leaders have hinted at the possibility of targeting top Iranian leadership in response to Tehran’s growing influence across the region and its backing of groups hostile to Israel.

These developments come in the context of an ongoing war that has already left hundreds dead and injured, drawing in multiple regional players.

Israel has issued open threats to Iranian spiritual leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Israeli Defense Minister Katz, on Thursday said, “Khamenei cannot continue to live.Preventing Khamenei’s existence is part of the operation’s goals.”

Sistani’s intervention is seen by many observers as a crucial and rare move by a spiritual leader known for his restraint.

Analysts believe his words are a signal to avoid crossing a dangerous threshold that could trigger sectarian warfare and drag Iraq and other neighboring countries deeper into the conflict.