‘Battle of truth and falsehood, Shia-Sunni stand together’: Maulana Sajjad Naumani meets Iranian envoy

New Delhi: Prominent Muslim scholar Maulana Sajjad Naumani on Tuesday met Dr Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, a representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, at the Iran Cultural House in Delhi, urging unity among Muslims amid the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran.

The nearly two-hour interaction, held in Arabic, centred on strengthening ties between Shia and Sunni communities.

“In this war, Shia and Sunni stand together. It is a battle between truth and falsehood, and all Muslims are united beyond sectarian lines,” he said.

Naumani said he relayed a message from the Iranian side emphasising that despite minor sectarian differences, Muslims must remain united in the face of external threats. “Against America and Israel, we are one nation. We are sharing this message across the country,” he added.

The meeting was also attended by Shams Tabrez Qasmi, editor of Millat Times, who played a key role in organising and facilitating the discussion. His efforts helped bring both sides together and ensured a smooth exchange, underscoring the role of media in encouraging dialogue and unity.

During the meeting, Naumani handed over a financial contribution in support of Iran and submitted a written statement, Dr Ilahi said. The Iranian representative appreciated Naumani’s visit, noting that it boosted “strength and courage” among those present despite the scholar’s health concerns.

The visit comes amid escalating tensions in West Asia, which have implications for India’s energy and trade sectors. The United States and Israel started military strikes on Iran in late February, triggering retaliatory action and a partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for about 20% of global oil supplies. US President Donald Trump has indicated that American forces could withdraw from the campaign “within two or three weeks,” though the conflict remains ongoing.

Naumani described the meeting as “a very good conversation” and said he felt honoured to contribute to efforts promoting Muslim unity. Officials at the Iran Cultural House said the interaction was intended to convey a broader message of solidarity to the Indian Muslim community.