The Deputy Head of the International Seminaries has emphasized the strategic importance of intelligent propaganda in cyberspace, urging religious missionaries to adopt new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to expand the influence of Islamic discourse globally.
Speaking at a specialized seminar for religious and cultural activists in East Azerbaijan Province, Hojjatoleslam Seyyed Mofid Hosseini Kouhsari called on seminary scholars and missionaries to enhance their media proficiency and embrace cutting-edge communication tools to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving geopolitical and ideological landscape.
Highlighting global shifts, Kouhsari pointed to the recent 12-Day War as a pivotal event in modern history. “This war fundamentally challenged the military and political dominance of Western superpowers and the Zionist regime,” he stated, adding that the confrontation demonstrated the Islamic Republic’s readiness to stand against global arrogance.
He also referenced the emergence of multipolar power blocs such as BRICS and evolving regional alliances, noting, “We are at a historical turning point. The Resistance Front, with its ideological and strategic strength, is now a decisive force in shaping global developments.”
Addressing the seminary’s mission in the Caucasus region, particularly Azerbaijan, Kouhsari stressed the responsibility of preserving and reinforcing Shi’a identity. “Our focus must be on three critical pillars: understanding the historical roots of Shiism in the region, deepening religious knowledge, and revitalizing religious practice among the local population,” he said.
He urged a strategic approach, combining research, education, propaganda, and the establishment of intellectual hubs (think tanks), to effectively respond to ideological challenges. He also recommended leveraging major international religious events like Arbaeen for broader outreach.
In a set of targeted recommendations to seminary activists and propagators, Kouhsari—former representative of Al-Mustafa International University in Indonesia—called for:
- Deepened scholarly engagement with the works of Imam Khomeini (RA), Martyr Motahari, and the Leader of the Islamic Revolution
- Advanced training in media and digital communication
- Use of artificial intelligence to accelerate and amplify content production
- Structured research efforts focused on Azerbaijan’s Shi’a community
- Coordination with global Islamic outreach initiatives and popular movements
Looking ahead, Kouhsari underscored the dynamic trajectory of the Islamic world. “We are on the cusp of unprecedented transformations. Just as few foresaw the rise of the Arbaeen pilgrimage as a global movement, we must now prepare for equally unimaginable developments.”
He concluded by stating, “The collapse of the Zionist regime and the decline of U.S. hegemony are no longer distant possibilities. We must position ourselves to play a decisive role in shaping this future.”
