Mawlawi Abdolhamid: The slogan of destroying Israel is useless; two nations must live side by side

Mawlawi Abdolhamid, the Sunni Friday prayer leader of Zahedan, called for calm between Israel and Hamas during Friday prayers in the city, stating that neither Muslims nor Jews can eliminate the other. He remarked on the heartbreaking events in Palestinian territories and Israel, noting that for seventy years there has been conflict between Palestinians and Israelis, with efforts for peace yielding no results as both sides attempt to destroy each other. He emphasized that many have tried for peace, but it has not materialized. In recent decades, Israelis have held power and resources, while Palestinians have lacked governance. Referring to the recent Hamas attack and Israel's response, he expressed pain over the situation, stressing the importance of human rights. He stated that while they are Muslims, they adhere to reason and fairness, and any excesses that harm women and children are unacceptable. He asserted that Muslims must also respect international laws, and both sides should not violate these laws. Mawlawi Abdolhamid emphasized that these are two nations living together, and he aims to speak the truth, even if some Muslims may disagree with him. He pointed out that both nations have suffered, with Palestinians suffering more, and questioned why they have not reached peace in seventy years. He believes the world largely agrees that two governments should be established. Instead of thinking about destroying each other, both nations should help each other and coexist. He acknowledged that some may criticize him for saying Israel should not be destroyed, but historically, neither side can eliminate the other. They must resolve their issues together and establish two governments. He hopes for a fair agreement that allows both nations to live freely together. He noted that the experience of the past seventy years shows that this is the solution, urging an end to war and destruction, especially in Gaza. Mawlawi Abdolhamid's stance contrasts with the Iranian leaders' longstanding rhetoric about the annihilation of Israel. Concurrently, Ali Khamenei, the leader of the Islamic Republic, stated that Iran had no role in Hamas's attack on Israel. U.S. officials claim there is no evidence of Iranian officials being aware of the attack, while some Republican members of Congress assert that Iran was informed. President Joe Biden warned Iran to refrain from interfering in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Mawlawi Abdolhamid reiterated that Muslims and Jews should not think about the destruction of the other.