The conflict between Israel and Iran rages on, with both nations launching missile attacks at each other. The United States is urging Iran to surrender unconditionally. In response to the U.S.'s demand, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei posted on X, issuing a warning to Israel with a declaration, 'The battle begins'. Accompanying this message is a photo that has sparked much conversation. Let's explore the symbolism of this image and its messaging.
What's in the photo?
The photo shared by Khamenei is a symbolic depiction of battle. It shows a figure wielding a distinctive sword entering through what appears to be a palace gate, with flames rising in the background. Text overlaying the photo reads, 'In the name of Haider, the battle begins.'
Ayatollah Ali is also known by the name Haider, highly revered within Shia Islam. Following this, Khamenei issued another tweet, warning, 'We must respond decisively to the terrorist Zionist regime. We will show no mercy.'
Source: aajtak
What is the story behind this photo?
This image is widely perceived as a declaration of war against Israel. According to translations by the Iran International News Outlet, the post proclaims, 'Ali Khaibar returns.' Meanwhile, a report by The Times of Israel indicates this phrase denotes a historic victory over the Jewish city of Khaibar.
Hazrat Ali, the fourth caliph of Islam, is recognized as the first Imam by Shia Muslims. Originally shared in Persian, the photo references the battle where Hazrat Ali's forces defeated the Jews of Khaibar.
Source: aajtak
Reported by India Today, Aligarh Muslim University's Professor Ali Nadeem Rizvi explains the picture serves as a 'battle cry' for Muslim victory. The war was fought during the 629 Hijri year (Islamic calendar), marking a significant clash between Hazrat Ali's army and the Jews of Khaibar. The battle of Khaibar witnessed the Prophet tasking Hazrat Ali with conquering the fortress.
During the confrontation, Ali, using the legendary sword Zulfiqar, slew Jewish commander Marhab, compelling the Jews to surrender. Despite lesser numbers, Muslim casualties were minimal. Zulfiqar is the famed sword of Hazrat Ali, under which banner numerous battles were fought and victories achieved.
This conflict holds profound significance for Shia Muslims, as it narrates the bravery of Hazrat Ali and the legacy of Zulfiqar. By referencing Khaibar through this image, Khamenei draws parallels between Hazrat Ali's Jewish victory and Iran's contemporary stance.
What is the current update in the Iran-Israel conflict?
On June 13, 2025, Israel initiated Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iran's nuclear sites and military bases. The conflict has reportedly resulted in over 224 fatalities in Iran, with roughly 1500 wounded. In Israel, the reported fatalities stand at 24.
