On October 14, 2025, the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) welcomed a Turkish delegation representing various sects. The visit was organized by the Imam Hussain Center in Istanbul, which operates under the International Media Center of the Holy Shrine’s Media Department. The aim of the visit was to strengthen the spirit of love and loyalty toward the Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them).

During their visit, the delegation met with senior officials of the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) and exchanged views on the pivotal role of the Ahlulbayt in preserving the identity of the Islamic nation and promoting the values of faith, unity, and compassion.

Muhammad Siddiq Gilani, head of the Turkish Gilani Endowment, stated to Karbala Now Agency, “We were honored to visit the holy shrines in Najaf and Karbala in coordination with the Imam Hussain Center (peace be upon him) in Istanbul. This visit reflects our deep love and solidarity with the Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them)—a love that is firmly rooted in our hearts, and we thank God for that.”

He added, “The Noble Messenger (peace be upon him and his family) and the righteous scholars of our predecessors emphasized this love. As the scholar Al-Razi mentioned in his interpretation, love must be expressed not only in the heart but through action—by supporting the Ahlulbayt and distancing oneself from their oppressors. This is the true motto of the Islamic nation.”

Gilani continued, “As Muslims, we all face the same Qiblah, and loving the Ahlulbayt and their descendants is our duty. They are the rightful inheritors of the Prophet’s legacy (peace and blessings be upon him). The scholars are the heirs of the prophets, and the Prophet’s family is most deserving of our following and affection.”

He further explained, “Today, we stand before our Master, Imam Hussain (peace be upon him), the Master of the Youth of Paradise. We have come to visit him, to follow his example, and to reflect on the injustice and martyrdom he endured. We ask Almighty God to grant us his companionship and to gather us among those who love him.”

The visit concluded with a meeting between the delegation and His Eminence Sayyed Muhammad Bahr Al-Ulum, Deputy Secretary-General of the Holy Shrine. Both sides discussed the role of the Ahlulbayt in strengthening unity within the Islamic nation. The Turkish delegation, composed of men and women, expressed their deep appreciation for the efforts of the shrine and its servants, affirming that love for the Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them) is a bond shared by all Muslims.

Emad Bao