‘Support religious leaders in addressing Palestinian injustices’

Gibson Nyikadzino

Zimpapers Politics Hub

The role of religious leaders in shaping  society should be supported to promote unity in diversity and address injustices around the world, an Iranian diplomat has said.

Cultural counsellor at the Iranian Embassy Mr Hamid Bakhtiyar made the remarks at the inter-religious conference held at the University of Zimbabwe with representatives from a range of religious communities.

The conference was held under the theme: “Unity in diversity: Religions against injustice.”

Mr Bakhtiyar praised religious leaders for possessing unique abilities to influence their communities especially in times of profound injustice such as the ongoing suffering of the Palestinian people.

“Religious leaders have a central role in shaping the moral and ethical direction of societies. They have the unique ability to influence not only their communities, but also to inspire broader societal shifts towards justice and compassion.

“In times of profound injustice, such as the ongoing suffering of the Palestinian people, the voice of religious leaders is essential. It is their duty to speak out against oppression and advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals regardless of their background,” Mr Bakhtiyar said.

Counsellor Bakhtiyar delivered a message on behalf of Dr Mohammad Imani Pour, the director of Iran’s Council for Religious Affairs and Coordination of Inter-religious Dialogue, which noted the importance of finding common solutions to global problems.

Dr Pour rallied religious leaders to raise the voice of the Palestinian people to the world’s attention.

“The role of religious leaders in supporting the Palestinian cause is crucial. By leveraging religious teachings, social influence, and ethical responsibilities, they can play a role in advancing justice, peace, and solidarity in the region,” Dr Pour said.

UZ Dean of Arts and Humanities Professor Fainos Mangena said religious leaders should promote peaceful co-existence, noting that all religions prioritise the preservation of life.

“Whether it’s Islam, Christianity, or Buddhism, we are speaking with one voice to say human life matters. We are speaking with one voice to say we must coexist peacefully and that we must tolerate each other in our diversities,” Prof Mangena said.