By Jaweria Basharat Abbasi
From childhood many of us are pushed into the Shia–Sunni divide. We are taught differences before we are taught unity. But today an important question stands before us: Shia or Sunni or simply Muslim?
At a time when the Muslim world faces immense political pressure, foreign intervention and ongoing wars, sectarian labels seem smaller than ever. What matters is dignity, sovereignty and the courage to stand against oppression.Among contemporary leaders, few figures openly challenged global superpowers and the Zionist regime with unwavering resolve. The Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was seen by many as a symbol of resistance. To his supporters and for me he represented defiance against American dominance and Israeli aggression. His stance whether one agreed with it or not was undeniably bold.For many Muslims, it is a moment of reflection. While an elderly leader stood firm in confrontation with powerful states, much of the Muslim world appeared politically fragmented and diplomatically cautious.
This contrast has triggered deep frustration among those who believe Muslim-majority countries have failed to act collectively.The anger intensifies when conflicts across the region are recalled from Gaza Strip to Iraq, Afghanistan and Iran. Repeated military interventions and wars have left devastation, civilian casualties and long-term instability.Figures such as Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu are war mongers whose aggressive foreign policies have escalated tensions across the region. Their actions have caused immense suffering and destruction in Muslim lands yet they continue to claim moral authority.
A recurring issue is the contradiction between promoting democracy and freedom while being associated with military actions that target innocent lives. This double standard fuels resentment and mistrust across the Muslim world.At its core, however, this is not only a geopolitical debate it is a moral and spiritual one. May Allah accept the martyrdom of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei a leader who stood firm in the face of overwhelming force and whose death has sparked mourning and official declarations of martyrdom across Iran and the wider Muslim world and that bring justice to all those who suffer under oppression.
Faith teaches that tyranny does not last forever and accountability if not in this world awaits in the Hereafter.The real question for Muslims today is not Shia or Sunni. It is whether unity, justice and dignity can rise above sectarian narratives. Emotional rhetoric may ignite passion but lasting change requires wisdom, strategy and collective awakening.History will judge leaders and nations alike. But as an Ummah, self-reflection may be the first step toward strength.
