Fatwas vs. Fighter Jets: The Religious Backbone of Iran’s War with Zionists

The recent 12-day war between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Zionist regime was one of the most significant military and political confrontations in the Middle East, once again highlighting the pivotal role of religious authorities in legitimizing resistance, mobilizing public opinion, and shaping media discourse. During this conflict, Shia clerical authorities in Najaf and Qom issued clear and explicit statements affirming the legitimacy of Iran’s defensive jihad and framed the confrontation as a battle between "truth and falsehood."

Religious Legitimization of Iran’s Resistance

One of the most prominent aspects of the role of religious authority in this conflict was the legitimization of Iran's defensive jihad. As Israeli attacks on Iranian territory escalated, the strong and unequivocal statements from grand clerics—particularly from Qom and Najaf—sparked a wave of support and solidarity. These statements interpreted Iran’s defensive actions under the banner of “legitimate jihad.”

Relying on Islamic jurisprudence and core religious principles, the clerics declared that defending the lives, property, dignity, and territory of Muslims is a religious obligation. These fatwas not only provided legal-religious validation for Iran’s resistance but also fostered broader Islamic and popular unity. By framing the war as a defense of "truth" against "falsehood," they added a deeply ideological and spiritual dimension to what could otherwise be viewed as a purely military-political conflict.

This approach instilled in both military forces and the public a sense that they were fulfilling a divine duty—an essential driver of morale and perseverance. As a result, the Axis of Resistance not only gained stronger support inside Iran but also received increasing backing among Shia—and even Sunni—communities across the region. These fatwas, especially on social media, quickly spread and became a force for Islamic solidarity.

Religious and Psychological Mobilization of the Resistance Front

The impact of religious authority extended beyond Iran and deeply influenced the broader region. Their firm stance and implicit or explicit support for resistance groups in Lebanon (Hezbollah), Yemen (Ansarullah), and Iraq (Hashd al-Shaabi) galvanized religious mobilization and bolstered the morale of Iran’s regional allies.

This spiritual and moral endorsement empowered these groups to stand alongside Iran in confronting the Zionist regime. Messages from religious authorities encouraged resistance fighters to persevere, assuring them that their struggle was just and divinely approved. This transnational and ideological influence significantly contributed to mobilizing both fighters and supporters across West Asia—not just militarily but also psychologically and ideologically, helping foster unity and resolve among the resistance.

Mounting Moral Pressure and Public Opinion against Israel

Another vital function of the religious authorities was exerting moral pressure and influencing public opinion against the Zionist regime. Their warnings about the humanitarian and religious consequences of Israel’s brutal attacks—especially on civilians—helped constrict the regime’s political and media space. These statements highlighted Israel’s war crimes from both ethical and human rights perspectives and exposed its aggressive nature to the world.

By referencing international law and human principles, the clerics dismantled Israel’s justifications for its military actions, pushing it further into international isolation and public condemnation. These reactions were especially pronounced among Muslim societies and even among Western human rights groups.

Framing the War through Media and Discourse

Amid the 12-day war, the religious authorities used religious and moral language to reframe the conflict—not as a mere military clash, but as a struggle between right and wrong. This discourse-shaping approach added new dimensions to the media battle. Relying on concepts like martyrdom, jihad, oppression, and resistance, the clerics influenced public consciousness across the Islamic world, guiding attention toward Iran’s victimhood and Israel’s aggressiveness.