Baghdad, Iraq: Ayatollah Sayyed Hadi Al-Sistani, a respected figure within the Shia clerical establishment in Iraq and the brother of the world-renowned Marja’ Grand Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Al-Sistani, has passed away, according to statements circulating through diplomatic and community channels.
Ayatollah Hadi Al-Sistani was a senior religious scholar in Najaf whose life and work were closely tied to the influential Sistani religious network. Although less globally prominent than his elder brother, Grand Ayatollah Ali Al-Sistani — who is widely recognized as one of the most senior Twelver Shia authorities and spiritual leaders in Iraq and beyond — Sayyed Hadi maintained a respected position among students, clergy, and devotees of the Najaf hawza (seminary).
Diplomatic sources, including official messages shared on social media by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Baghdad, confirmed the death and extended condolences to the family of Ayatollah Hadi Al-Sistani, highlighting his role within the community and respect among international diplomatic missions interacting with Iraq’s religious and civil society sectors.
Grand Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Al-Sistani, whose guidance has shaped post-2003 Iraqi politics and religious life through calls for democracy, rule of law, and national unity, is understood to have been personally affected by the loss of his brother. Grand Ayatollah Sistani has been a central figure in Iraq for decades, leading the Najaf seminary and issuing influential religious guidance to millions of Shia Muslims worldwide.
The passing of Ayatollah Sayyed Hadi Al-Sistani marks a moment of mourning for Shia scholars and believers in Iraq and abroad, and will be followed by religious rites in accordance with traditional Shia practices.
