Grand Ayatollah Sistani’s Alleged Statement: Attack on Khamenei to Trigger Jihad Fatwa? Social Media Rumor or Truth?
Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani has allegedly told Iran’s ambassador that any attack on Ayatollah Khamenei would lead to issuing a fatwa for jihad against American soldiers, but this claim is viral on social media without any official confirmation.Origin of the ClaimThis “breaking news” has spread since February 21, 2026, on Instagram posts and Facebook groups, shared with hashtags like #iranrevolution. No reliable news sources such as Najaf office, Reuters, or BBC have confirmed it.Fact-CheckThe viral claim appears unverified; YouTube videos explicitly state that Najaf office or international media have not confirmed it. Sistani is a leading Shia scholar but avoids political statements, and fatwas from him are rare. Even amid Iran-Iraq tensions, such a statement doesn’t match his style. Other Shia leaders (like Nouri Hamadani) have made pro-Khamenei remarks, but Sistani’s name specifically seems fabricated.Context: Iran-US TensionsIran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei himself warned of regional war if America attacks. Tensions are at a peak amid President Trump’s pressure and anti-Iran protests, fueling such rumors.
