Arabic version: الصراع الإيراني يثير الانقسام بين المسلمين الفلبينيين

The US-Israeli war on Iran has significantly impacted Muslim communities in the Philippines, particularly in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region. As the conflict unfolds, it has not only caused socioeconomic disruptions but also deepened divisions among local Islamic scholars, threatening community cohesion. According to Al Jazeera, the Philippines was the first country to declare a state of emergency due to the conflict, resulting in protests against rising prices and shortages of essential goods.

The war has polarized opinions within the Muslim community. One faction supports Iran’s retaliatory actions against the United States and views them as a response to the plight of Palestinians. In contrast, another faction opposes Iran, labeling it a Shia nation that poses a threat to Sunni communities. This division has intensified since the Abraham Accords established diplomatic ties between Israel and several Arab nations, marking a shift in the discourse surrounding the Palestinian issue.

Previously, the Philippines had a strong history of solidarity with Palestine, with regular demonstrations by both Muslim and non-Muslim activists. However, the recent normalization of relations has led some Bangsamoro scholars to frame support for Palestine as an Iranian agenda, labeling those who align with the Palestinian resistance as deviants and political tools of Shia influence.

This clash of narratives is not merely a theological debate but reflects the intertwining of politics and religion in the Bangsamoro context. Scholars educated in Gulf countries often bring back ideologies that align with their host nations’ viewpoints, further complicating local dynamics. The result is a growing polarization that undermines the region’s quest for a unified identity, especially in a post-conflict environment.

To address these divisions, it is crucial for scholars and community leaders to engage in ethical discourse, avoiding labels that could further alienate differing opinions. Recognizing the historical context of Bangsamoro’s struggle against oppression can foster a more unified response to global injustices. Ultimately, the community must resist divisive narratives and ground their beliefs in a shared Islamic identity and history.