DID Press: Egyptian writer and political analyst Sameh Askar has criticized what he described as the “political exploitation of Islamic sanctities,” saying some Salafi currents are calling on their followers to wage “jihad” against Yemen by citing sectarian differences and accusing Yemenis of “insulting the Companions of the Prophet.”
Askar wrote that the same currents are also calling for an alliance with Israel and, to justify that position, emphasize claims that Israelis respect the Prophet’s Companions. He described the approach as an instrumental use of religious concepts for political purposes.
The Egyptian analyst, referring to developments in Gaza Strip and Syria, said the two crises had exposed what he considers contradictions between the religious rhetoric and political conduct of some Salafi currents.
Askar also referred to Ahmed al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammed al-Julani, describing him as an example of the political use of religious discourse. He added that some Salafi currents use Islamic concepts to gain power and advance political objectives.
In recent years, Salafi currents have played different roles in the Yemen war, while some Salafi fighters have been part of military structures affiliated with the government backed by the Saudi-led coalition.