Baghdad: Iraq’s most powerful Shiite cleric called for a global war against Daesh on Friday, a day after the prime minister said he would welcome Russian air strikes against the group on Iraqi soil.
Grand Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani, who has a huge following and can often influence government thinking, was speaking through an aide after nationally televised Friday prayers.
“Battle with Daesh is destined for all Iraqis,” said Al Sistani.
“But it’s not their battle alone but the whole world, because terrorists target with their dark ideology all humanity, its culture and morals.” He added: “It’s essential to join together all efforts and expand the parameters of countering this movement.” The United States has led air strikes against Daesh in Iraq for more than a year, but Baghdad has repeatedly called for engagement and air support for Iraqi forces trying to regain territory against the ultra-hardline group.
Russia began bombing raids in Syria on Wednesday against groups fighting the forces of President Bashar Al Assad, which include Daesh.
Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Al Abadi said on Thursday his government would welcome Russian air strikes against Daesh in Iraq, and was receiving information from both Syria and Russia on the group.
Al Abadi, asked by France 24 television whether he had discussed air strikes with Russia in his country, said: “Not yet” and “it is a possibility. If we get the offer we will consider it and I would welcome it.”
