Iraq has one of the youngest populations in the world, with around 60% of its people under 25. Since Saddam Hussein was overthrown in 2003, the country has faced constant problems like war, corruption, and a struggling economy. This tough situation has left many young Iraqis feeling hopeless about their futures.
Recently, a new and alarming movement has emerged, drawing in these disillusioned youths. This group, known as the Allahiyah movement, practices a shocking ritual involving suicide determined by a lottery.
The Allahiyah group, also called the Qurban (“sacrifice” in Arabic), began in southern Iraq in early 2020. It now has about 2,500 members. Their leader, Abdul Ali Munim al-Hasani, lives in Mashhad, Iran.
At first, the group seemed like any other Shia Islamic sect, with members gathering for religious ceremonies, chanting, and dancing to electronic music. But in 2021, disturbing reports started to surface. Young men connected to Allahiyah were found hanging themselves in religious buildings called Husseiniyahs.
The movement split from followers of Muhammad Sadiq al-Sadr, a prominent Shia cleric. His son, Muqtada al-Sadr, is a powerful figure in Iraq who has condemned the Allahiyah movement as extremist.
Allahiyah members believe that Ali bin Abi Talib, a key figure in Shia Islam, is a divine being. They think that sacrificing themselves will bring them closer to him. Members draw lots, and whoever’s name is picked must offer their life as a sacrifice. They plan to spread their beliefs to schools, universities, and even outside Iraq.
The group has recently faced serious issues. In June, security forces arrested an Allahiyah member who confessed to killing two family members as sacrifices. Authorities have also reported at least 25 suicides linked to the movement.
The situation has alarmed both the government and the public. The authorities have launched a crackdown on the group, arresting many members across different regions. Despite this, some police and security personnel have reportedly sympathized with the movement.
Experts believe that the rise of Allahiyah reflects deeper problems in Iraqi society. High youth unemployment, poverty, and a lack of opportunities are driving young people to join extreme groups. The government has been criticized for not doing enough to address these issues.
In summary, Iraq’s new Allahiyah movement is a troubling example of how despair and lack of opportunity can lead young people down a dangerous path. The government’s response and efforts to address these root problems will be crucial in preventing further tragedies.
