Grand Ayatollah Ishaq Al-Fayyad dies in Najaf after a prolonged illness, according to the Iraqi News Agency (INA) on Thursday. The senior Shiite cleric was one of the most prominent religious authorities in the Hawza of Najaf.
His office confirmed his passing in an official obituary, describing his death as a major loss for the religious seminaries and the broader Islamic community.
Office Mourns a Senior Religious Authority
In a statement, the office of the late cleric said that Al-Fayyad devoted his life to serving Islam, teaching Islamic sciences, and educating generations of scholars.
The statement highlighted his efforts in promoting the teachings of Ahl al-Bayt and clarifying religious rulings, noting that his passing represents a significant loss for the religious establishment in Najaf.
Grand Ayatollah Al-Fayyad was regarded as one of the leading maraji in Najaf and a senior figure within the Shiite religious seminary.
Coordination Framework Cancels Eid al-Ghadir Event
In response to the news, Iraq’s Coordination Framework announced the cancellation of its planned Eid al-Ghadir celebration.
In a brief statement carried by the Iraqi News Agency, the group extended condolences to the Islamic world on the passing of Grand Ayatollah Ishaq Al-Fayyad.
The decision reflects the significance of his religious stature within Iraq and across Shiite communities.
Funeral Schedule Announced
Funeral arrangements for the late cleric have been announced and will take place across three Iraqi cities.
According to official information:
– Friday at 9:00 AM: Funeral procession begins in Kadhimiya.
– Friday at 5:00 PM: Procession continues in Karbala.
– Saturday at 9:00 AM: Final funeral ceremonies in Najaf.
Large attendance from religious scholars, students of the Hawza, and members of the public is expected during the ceremonies.
A Prominent Figure in the Najaf Hawza
Grand Ayatollah Ishaq Al-Fayyad was widely recognized as one of the most senior clerics in Najaf. Over decades, he played a central role in advanced jurisprudential studies and religious guidance.
He was known for his scholarly contributions and for mentoring numerous students who later became clerics and teachers within Iraq and abroad.
His death marks a significant moment for the Najaf seminary, given his longstanding influence and religious authority.
Conclusion:
The news that Grand Ayatollah Ishaq Al-Fayyad dies after a long illness has prompted official mourning and the cancellation of public events. With funeral ceremonies scheduled in Kadhimiya, Karbala, and Najaf, Iraq prepares to bid farewell to one of its most senior religious authorities.
