A Life of Service: The Enduring Legacy of Martyr Ebrahim Raeisi
How Iran’s Late President Became a Global Symbol of Resistance and Humility Through the Eyes of His Daughter
Tucked away in the quiet alleys of Mashhad, the modest home of the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi’s mother stands as a silent testament to a family deeply connected to the people. Even Raeisi’s own residence in Tehran reflected this humility—lacking the extravagance and security details often associated with power. This simplicity was not just a personal choice but a reflection of Raeisi’s lifelong commitment to remaining close to his roots and serving the public.
Born in 1960 in the holy city of Mashhad, Raeisi grew up in an environment steeped in faith and tradition. His scholarly journey took him to the seminary in Qom, where he was influenced by prominent figures, including Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Khamenei. From a young age, Raeisi was inspired by the revolutionary vision of Imam Khomeini, whose teachings on justice, spirituality, and human dignity became the guiding principles of Raeisi’s life and leadership.
Throughout his presidency, Raeisi anchored Iran’s foreign policy in the defense of the oppressed—a doctrine rooted in Imam Khomeini’s ideology. For Raeisi, supporting the downtrodden was not just a political stance but a spiritual and moral obligation. In a historic speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 2023, he declared,
“Supporting the oppressed is not merely a political stance, it is a Quranic imperative.”
His daughter, Reyhaneh Sadat Raeisi, emphasised in an interview that her father saw himself as a guardian for the oppressed, particularly in the Islamic world, and felt personally responsible for crises like those in Gaza.
Raeisi’s unwavering support for resistance movements in Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, and Iraq was a hallmark of his leadership. He viewed the Palestinian struggle as the most glaring example of global injustice and consistently advocated for resistance as the only ethical response to tyranny. After the events of October 7, 2023, and the Al-Aqsa Storm operation by Hamas, Raeisi publicly supported the Palestinian cause, calling the operation a turning point in the region’s history and a blow to the perceived invincibility of the Zionist regime.
His advocacy extended beyond the region, framing the Palestinian issue as a universal humanitarian crisis that resonated with people worldwide. Raeisi’s principled stance and moral clarity earned him admiration not only in the Islamic world but also among freedom-seeking communities globally. He became a role model for courage and dignity, as noted by his daughter.
Raeisi was also a vocal critic of Western hegemony and what he saw as the double standards of Western powers, particularly regarding their support for Israel. He condemned the West’s military, financial, and diplomatic backing of Israel during its campaigns in Gaza, highlighting the hypocrisy of promoting human rights while enabling aggression. In his diplomatic engagements, Raeisi consistently called for a just global order based on equity, ethics, and human dignity, challenging the dominance of militaristic and imperialist powers.
One of the defining moments of his presidency was his speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 2023, where he held up the Holy Quran in protest against its desecration in Sweden. He condemned the act as an assault on the sanctities of 1.8 billion Muslims and criticised the West’s use of “freedom of speech” to justify such actions. This gesture resonated deeply across the Muslim world and the Global South, reinforcing Raeisi’s image as a leader who combined religious scholarship with political authority.
Despite occupying the highest office, Raeisi always identified himself as a humble cleric, dedicated to serving the faithful. His legacy, as reflected in the words of his daughter, is one of humility, moral courage, and unwavering commitment to justice. He leaves behind a model of leadership that transcends borders, inspiring not only Iranians but also people across Latin America, Africa, and beyond who seek dignity and resistance in the face of oppression.
In the end, Raeisi’s life and presidency were defined by a steadfast dedication to the oppressed, a vision for a just world, and a humility that endeared him to millions. His legacy continues to inspire those who believe in the power of service, faith, and resistance.
Source: PressTv