An Iranian Sunni prayer leader from Golestan Province called third Shia Imam as the model of Muslim unity and hailed Ashura as the day for rescue of Islam from oppression.

Abdul Aziz Akhoond Akhoondi, renowned prayer leader in Gonbad- e Qabus, Golestan Province, in an exclusive interview with Taqrib News Agency (TNA) extended his condolences over the mourning days of Muharram and called Imam Hussein (AS), third Shia Imam and grandson of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), as the teacher of unity who taught Muslims how to live freely.

He called Muslims to learn the lessons of Imam Hussein (AS) uprising and stressed the loyalty and affection of Sunni community towards Ahlul Bayt (AS), household of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

“It is our duty to teach the objectives and philosophy behind Imam Hussein (AS) uprising against the oppressors and notify them of the efforts of third Shia Imam to revive the lifestyle of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).” He said.

The Sunni cleric warned against mean objectives of the enemies against promotion of Islam and criticized their efforts to prevent development of Muslims by fueling and exaggerating disunity in Muslim communities.

On the way to please Imam Hussein (AS), Akhoondi said,” If we intend to continue the path of Imam Hussein (AS), then we have to unanimously stand against enemies of Islam and boost our unity to protect our religion.”

Prayer leader from Northeastern Province of Golestan also counted local traditions for marking Ashura and martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS) and his companions, manifest of respect and affection of Sunni community to the third Shia Imam.

HK