Saudi Delegation Hears Ali Imran 13 at Khamenei's Coffin, Turkey Hears Verse on Jihad

During the final respects for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, different Quranic verses were played for each foreign delegation. The six-member Saudi delegation, led by Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed El-Khereiji, walked slowly into the ceremony room and was played Surah Ali Imran, verse 13, as they approached the coffin. The verse recounts the Battle of Badr, stating: ‘Indeed there was a sign for you in the two hosts that met: one host fighting in the cause of Allah and another disbelieving.’ It highlights how a smaller Muslim force triumphed over a larger disbelieving army with divine support, signalling a message that unity among Islamic forces leads to victory against non-believers. Meanwhile, the Turkish delegation heard a different passage. As they paid their respects before the coffin, Surah An-Nisa, verse 95, was recited. This verse distinguishes between believers who remain inactive without valid excuse and those who strive in Allah’s cause with their wealth and lives, emphasising that God has granted a higher rank to those who engage in jihad. The selective recitations appeared designed to convey distinct political and ideological messages to each visiting delegation.