The representative of the Supreme Religious Authority, Sheikh Abdul Mahdi Al-Karbalaey, emphasized that the Supreme Religious Authority was the only entity that was able to save Iraq in its darkest circumstances, when others failed to do so. This came in his speech during the opening ceremony of the second public festival of the Sufficient Defense Fatwa, organized by the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine in the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine.

Sheikh Al-Karbalaey said, "We always ask: Who saved Iraq when it was threatened with collapse? And how was he able to save the nation, religion, holy sites, and history, at a time when international estimates indicated that the battle with ISIS could last ten years? But we were victorious in three years and a few months, thanks to the Sufficient Defense Fatwa and its brave men."

He pointed out that this victory would not have been possible without the strong bond between the Supreme Religious Authority and those men who answered its call. He explained that this conscious submission and obedience to the religious authority's pronouncements is what brought about victory, and this must be understood and instilled in the consciousness of future generations.

Al-Karbalaey emphasized that "the Grand Ayatollah did not merely state his position, but rather generated conviction about it and instilled the motivation and drive that enabled the fighters to persevere with steadfastness and determination despite the losses, bloodshed, and pain." He emphasized that "this relationship between the nation and the Religious Authority must be preserved and deepened, because it is the true guarantee of victory in any future crisis."

He added, "His Eminence Sayyed Al-Sistani (may his shadow endure) is the entity that possessed the elements of true influence, conveyed the correct position to the nation, and motivated it to transform it into action on the ground and genuine sacrifice."