IEA Supreme Leader issues Eid al-Adha message

Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), issued his Eid al-Adha message on Wednesday, underscoring key themes of religious governance, national unity, economic self-reliance, and solidarity with the people of Palestine.

In his address, Akhundzada reiterated that the core objective of the Islamic Emirate’s rule is the full implementation of Islamic Sharia law and adherence to the religious directives issued under his leadership. He called on all officials within the Emirate to refrain from interfering in each other’s responsibilities and to govern in consultation with Islamic scholars.

Akhundzada emphasized the importance of providing comprehensive support to Afghan returnees, urging authorities to facilitate their resettlement, employment, and welfare.

He also stressed the need for independence from foreign aid and influence, particularly in economic and humanitarian matters.

In a pointed directive to the judiciary, he instructed judges to rule based solely on the nature of the crime, rather than an individual’s social status or identity, and once again declared obedience to his orders as “obligatory” for all officials and citizens under the Islamic system.

The IEA leader strongly condemned Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, expressing unwavering support for the Palestinian people. He demanded an immediate halt to civilian killings and called for an end to what he described as “Zionist occupation.”

Addressing the business community, Akhundzada urged Afghan entrepreneurs to work toward national self-sufficiency, noting that the sustainability of the Islamic Emirate depends significantly on a stable and self-reliant economy.

He also called on students, particularly those in religious seminaries, schools, and universities, to focus diligently on their studies and avoid wasting time on what he termed “useless distractions.”

Akhundzada’s message reflects the Islamic Emirate’s continued emphasis on strict religious governance, internal discipline, and resistance to international influence, while facing persistent domestic and global criticism over human rights and gender equality issues.