A popular Kuwaiti Quran reciter, Mishary Rashid Alafasy, has come out appearing to endorse American-Israeli aggression against Iran, threatening the Persian country with the opening of the “gates of hell”, adopting the language and posture of US President Donald Trump.
In a separate, longer tweet, he described Iran as an “aggressive state,” claiming its actions target Gulf countries and framing the issue as one of “aggression, not sect.” The post further states: “We stand against the aggressor even if they were the most pious of people.”
The comments come in the wake of Trump, who in a recent speech likened Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to an “ass kisser.” Trump said, “He didn’t think he would be kissing my ass – he really didn’t. Now he has to be nice to me. He better be nice to me.”
Alafasy, much like segments of the mainstream Saudi and broader Arab clergy, has either aligned with state narratives on Iran or remained complicit in Arab leadership’s abandonment of the Palestinian cause.
Prominent Quran reciters and preachers hold immense influence across the Muslim world, often commanding millions of followers online. Historically, figures such as Alafasy have faced backlash for remarks seen as inconsistent with Islamic principles or for perceived duplicity.
Prominent preacher Mufti Ismail Menk also recently posted a message advising restraint, stating that when one does not fully understand a situation, it is الأفضل “to remain silent.”
This response triggered widespread criticism, with many arguing that neutrality amounts to complicity.
Critics emphasized that religious leaders have a duty to speak the truth and stand against tyrants, accusing some of prioritizing personal reputation or political safety over moral clarity.
