Ayatollah Sistani Makes Public Appearance After Recovering from Illness

Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Sistani, one of the most prominent Shia clerics, welcomed the Iraqi public in the city of Najaf on Friday after recovering from the flu. The visit coincided with the anniversary of the birth of Fatima Zahra (peace be upon her), and Iraqi media published images of the occasion.

According to a statement from Ayatollah Sistani’s media office, he congratulated the people on the auspicious day of Fatima Zahra’s birth and offered prayers for the well-being of the Islamic nation. He asked God to keep the followers of Ahl al-Bayt on the righteous path and bless them with lasting health and strength.

Earlier, on December 5, a source close to Ayatollah Sistani’s office had announced the temporary suspension of meetings due to his illness. The same statement emphasized that Ayatollah Sistani’s health condition was satisfactory and that he was under full medical care.

The recent public appearance is seen as a sign of Ayatollah Sistani’s full recovery and a return to his regular schedule. His office also urged followers and the public not to pay attention to rumors circulating on social media and to rely only on official statements.