The Translation Unit of the Research and Development Department at Al-Rafidain Center for Dialogue (RCD) has completed the translation of a significant new volume titled Shia Islam and Politics: Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon. Authored by Jon Armajani, the text was translated into Arabic by Dr. Nasr Mohammed Ali.

Spanning seven chapters, the book offers a comprehensive historical and theological survey. It begins with an analysis of the distinctions between Sunni and Shia Islam, including Sunni critiques of the Shia faith. The narrative traverses critical historical periods across three key nations:

·        Iran: Tracing the transition from the Qajar and Pahlavi dynasties to the establishment of the Islamic Republic.

·        Iraq: Covering the tumultuous era from the end of World War I through to 1990.

·        Lebanon: Examining the timeline from the colonial period to the aftermath of Rafik Hariri's assassination, detailing the rise of movements like Amal and Hezbollah, and the disappearance of Imam Musa al-Sadr.

The author investigates the revolutionary patterns characterizing contemporary Shi'ism, linking them to religious and political revivalism. Central to this analysis is the martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), examining its profound impact on Shia history, collective conscience, and ritual practice.

Furthermore, the book explores Iran's foreign policy and its strategic support for allies in Iraq and Lebanon—viewed by the author as a consolidated front against American expansionism in the region.

By publishing this work, the Center reaffirms its commitment to tackling complex and controversial topics that spark debate in both popular and cultural circles. RCD aims to provide a platform for understanding diverse perspectives according to rigorous academic standards, ensuring that even difficult concepts are accessible for analysis and critique.

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