The truth behind tensions in Sidon

The residents of the Abra town in the northern city of Sidon said that purpose of holding an Ashura commemoration in the town and bussing in people to participate in it is to provoke the Sunnis and sow the seeds of strife. Salafist Sheikh Ahmad al Assir previously voiced his objection to it, saying, in one of the Ashura commemorations, that “it disrespects the mother of Sunni believers Ayesha”.       

Assir’s stance prompted the intervention of prominent figures in the region, politicians, and religious leaders to prevent the city from sliding into strife.         

Sidon’s Mufti Sheikh Salim Soussan assured that Muslims are united, denouncing any action by one group to harm the other. He told LBCI that is necessary to “lock the door of strife”.         

However, the political debate spurred by Assir’s statements did not prevent Sidon from organizing Ashura processions, but with some amendments.           

A mass procession organized by the town’s active figures took to the streets amid tight security measures taken by the LAF and the security forces. Also, the roads leading to the town were closed.             

The mourners took a path through the city streets raising black flags and banners while lamenting the death of Hussain; a scene that reflected the region’s reality and contradictions.