International peace and stability have always been concerns in the global community. The establishment of international institutions, such as the United Nations, emerged in response to the aftermath of World Wars I and II. Despite the existence of such institutions, conflicts, and wars continue to shape the current international system. The international community has struggled to achieve lasting peace, especially in the context of armed conflicts within Islamic countries like Syria, Iraq, and Yemen.
The presence of widespread conflicts has often led to a negative perception of Islam in the Western world and among some researchers. However, a closer and more objective examination reveals that Islam is not inherently incompatible with peace and cooperation, particularly among Islamic communities. Islamic principles found in the Quran and Sunnah emphasize reconciliation, justice, and unity among believers.
Furthermore, Islam places a broad and deep emphasis on security, encompassing various aspects of life and areas including politics, economics, society, culture, and both internal and external affairs. Internal cohesion and unity within Islamic communities hold paramount importance for security.
In recent decades, the role of religion in international relations has gained significant attention. Islam, with its influential parameters, has become a focal point in these discussions. Religious principles have played a crucial role in shaping political dynamics both internally and on the international stage. Issues related to religious rights, particularly in the context of human rights, have garnered substantial interest.
Before the advent of Islam, global politics revolved around the competition among empires, particularly the Sassanian and Roman empires, creating a broad political landscape. However, with the emergence of Islam, the nature of global interactions underwent significant changes. Prophet Muhammad’s message emphasized the equality of all humans in creation, the equality of believers before God, the rejection of national and racial privileges, justice, and more. These principles laid the foundation for a new era of international relations.
The Islamic Revolution in Iran stands as a pivotal moment not only in Iran’s history but also in global international relations. It was a popular movement that, based on Islamic values, sought to create a new form of international relations. The revival of genuine Islam has had a profound impact, felt not only in Iran but also in Lebanon, Afghanistan, Turkey, Algeria, Iraq, and other Islamic countries. The resurgence of a return to pure Islam constitutes the essence of these movements, known as “Islamism.”
Islamism primarily refers to the application of Islamic ideologies to social and political matters. It is essential to note that not all Islamic movements fall into the category of radicalism or extremism. Islamic politics predominantly encompasses non-violent movements seeking to establish internal and international systems based on Islamic values through peaceful means.
Islam is a religion of peace, reconciliation, kindness, compassion, and living peacefully with all people around the world. The fundamental principle in Islam is to behave with peace and reconciliation towards all people, except when it comes to non-Muslims engaging in aggression, transgression, and injustice against Muslims.
The Quran not only calls upon Muslims to unite with each other but also encourages them to converge and unite globally. The Quran emphasizes common aspects and unity to promote kindness and a life without enmity and conflict. It focuses on monotheism and the oneness of God, which is a common point between the people of the Book and Muslims, to reduce hostilities and promote kindness. In this regard, the Quran says, “Say, ‘O People of the Book, come to a word that is equitable between us and you – that we will not worship except Allah and not associate anything with Him and not take one another as lords instead of Allah.’ But if they turn away, then say, ‘Bear witness that we are Muslims [submitting to Him].'” (Quran, 3:64)
According to the Quran, there is only one religion before God, which is Islam (Quran, 3:19). It does not call for multiple religions but rather emphasizes monotheism, making humanity a single nation with a single Lord, Allah. However, people have fragmented this single religion into different parts (Quran, 21:92). Therefore, what is common among widely accepted religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, if embraced by all monotheists, can eliminate many polytheistic beliefs and unjust social behaviors.
The Quran does not prohibit Muslims from showing kindness, goodness, and justice to non-believers and polytheists who do not harm or conspire against the Islamic community. In this context, the Quran states, “Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes – from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Quran, 60:8)
Furthermore, the Quran addresses the possibility of peace and reconciliation between the Islamic state and non-Muslim states, provided that the non-Muslims do not engage in aggression or attacks. In this context, the Quran says, “And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing.” (Quran, 8:61) This acceptance of peace is conditional on non-Muslims refraining from aggression or attacks. If they do attack and kill some Muslims or loot their possessions, it becomes the duty of Muslims to defend themselves rather than seek peace.
The Quran also highlights the importance of humanitarian love. Imam Ali, in his letter to Malik al-Ashtar, emphasizes the significance of showing mercy, love, and kindness to the people in society. He distinguishes between two categories of people: those who share the same faith and those who are like you in creation. The former are your brothers in faith, while the latter share the same origin in creation.
When the Quran commands unity, peace, and kindness in dealing with non-Muslims who do not harm or conspire against Muslims, it is evident that there is a greater emphasis on unity and reconciliation among Muslims themselves. As the Quran states, “O you who have believed, enter into Islam completely [and perfectly] and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” (Quran, 2:208) This verse encourages believers to enter into Islam wholly, emphasizing the importance of unity and avoiding divisions influenced by Satan.
