Dr. Ziedan asserted in his talk that the roots of the disagreement are more historical and political than religious. He called for moving beyond extremist rhetoric, citing numerous examples that bridge the causes of disagreement and highlight points of commonality. He noted the Zionist aggression against both the Sunni-majority Gaza Strip and the Shia-majority South Lebanon, arguing that the aggression targeting citizens in Gaza is the same as that which targets citizens in South Lebanon. He called for advancing toward a common understanding that strengthens the unity of the Arab and Islamic Ummah to confront the common enemy represented by the Zionist occupation.

The lecture was met with significant engagement from the audience, who discussed ways to strengthen the bonds between the sects within a framework of mutual respect and constructive dialogue, in a manner that contributes to entrenching civil peace and coexistence.

This session is part of the endeavors of Al-Rafidain Center for Dialogue (RCD) to open intellectual horizons consistent with the principles of the authentic Iraqi state and society, and to enhance dialogue and coexistence between the various Islamic sects.