Ourmia, Iran – Every Friday at noon, the bustling marketplace of Ourmia, the capital of Western Azerbaijan, falls silent as traders shutter their shops for prayer. Though, beneath the surface of religious observance lies a palpable sense of economic hardship. For years, local businesses have struggled, and the once-thriving tourism industry, drawn to the nearby salt lake, has dwindled.

Decades of dam construction and unregulated well usage have decimated the lake, transforming it into a desolate salt desert. Rusty boat carcasses dot the landscape, serving as stark reminders of a bygone era. The relentless wind whips salt crystals across vast distances, rendering hundreds of hectares of agricultural land infertile and further impoverishing the regional economy.

A Shift in Focus: From Local Woes to Global Solidarity

Despite the pressing local issues, the focus within the city’s grand mosque has shifted towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Since the start of Israel’s response to the Oct. 7 massacre by hamas, Iranian religious spaces have increasingly emphasized the plight of Palestinians in Gaza.

As worshippers gather under the mosque’s brown dome,Imam Mammad Kolshi-Nejad delivers a powerful message: We want to transmit to the world the message of Islamic unity and support for the oppressed,in particular to the Palestinian people! And pave the way for the creation of a consensus against arrogant policies,including the support of certain governments on the Zionist regime!

The Message of Unity

The Imam’s words resonate deeply within the congregation,reflecting a broader sentiment of solidarity with palestinians. This emphasis on global Islamic unity serves as a powerful counterpoint to the economic struggles faced by the local population.

FAQ