The Dean of the Faculty of Theology at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad and the Secretary of the International Conference on Theology of Resistance stated: "The mission of academics, seminary scholars, and intellectual elites in our country is to elucidate the concept of resistance and its intellectual foundations."
In an interview with IRNA on Monday, Dr. Abbas Javarshakian added: "Resistance is not limited to the honorable people of Gaza. Today, the magnificent Resistance Front has astonished the entire world."
He explained: "Over the past year and a half, the people of Gaza have been under attack by the Zionist regime. Yet, we see them standing firm with immense courage and psychological strength against global arrogance."
As a faculty member at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, he posed a critical question: "What is the intellectual and ideological foundation behind this resistance? How does someone pulled from beneath rubble say 'Alhamdulillah' (Praise be to God) despite losing everything? What kind of perception does such a person have about themselves and the world?"
Referring to the Supreme Leader's statement that "the enduring concept is the idea of resistance," he emphasized: "This notion must be clarified for people around the world. Although some support has been extended to them, there has been no serious effort in scientifically explaining and formulating the ideology of resistance."
Dr. Javarshakian continued: "This matter requires a comprehensive scientific movement by thinkers and elites committed to the Resistance Front. The International Theology of Resistance Conference can serve as a starting point for an academic initiative within elite and university circles in this field."
He further stated: "The issue of resistance is not confined to a specific intellectual, religious, or theological current. For instance, individuals living in other parts of the world—such as America, Africa, or Europe—who may not adhere to Shi'a beliefs or even any religious faith still possess human conscience and ethical values that draw them closer to this cause."
The Secretary of this Conference added: "We possess Shi'a teachings that define how to interact with global arrogance and various power dynamics worldwide. These theological beliefs essentially represent a religious approach to resistance."
He elaborated further: "However, the concept of resistance exists on a higher level that transcends religious boundaries. It is shared among Islamic sects and other divine religions. Additionally, from a humanistic perspective, this topic can be analyzed on another level."
Dr. Javarshakian noted: "While some good efforts have been made in political and legal domains, and numerous conferences on Palestine have been held both domestically and internationally, there has been minimal focus on this subject from a theological perspective."
He concluded: "This conference aims to unveil and explain resistance from theological, jurisprudential, philosophical, ethical, and spiritual dimensions. The audience includes all institutions and individuals affiliated with or interested in the Resistance Front."
Regarding the timing of this event, Dr. Javarshakian announced: "The firstInternational Conference on Theology of Resistance will take place on Sunday, September 7, and Monday, September 8, 2025. The deadline for abstract submissions has been extended to May 5, 2025, while full papers can be submitted until August 6, 2025."
