Traditional Iftar of the Military Mufti in Sarajevo: Armed Forces One of the Most Beautiful Stories of BiH Reintegration

(Patria) - The traditional iftar of the Military Mufti was held tonight at the House of the Armed Forces of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, with messages of stability and coexistence in challenging times.

The iftar was also attended by the Deputy Reis-ul-Ulema, Mufti Enes-ef. Ljevaković, who stated on this occasion that the Ministry of Defense and the Armed Forces of BiH are one of the most important factors of security and stability in the country and the region.

He assessed that the Armed Forces of BiH represent one of the most successful stories of reintegration of Bosnian-Herzegovinian society.

Speaking about their role, Ljevaković emphasized the importance of supporting their development.

- This is an opportunity, in meeting with responsible people, especially military imams and the military mufti, to express gratitude for all they do for the development of our Armed Forces. The Armed Forces are one of the most beautiful stories of reintegration of BiH and Bosnian-Herzegovinian society.

We express our gratitude and support for all they do for the defense of our homeland, as well as for security and stability in the region - said the Deputy Reis-ul-Ulema.

He particularly highlighted the significance of launching education for young military imams and other interested religious officials in Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasizing the importance of their professional training.

As an example of coexistence and mutual respect, he cited the construction of a military mesjid in the "Kosova" barracks in Ustikolina, in which both Muslims and non-Muslims expressed a desire to contribute to its construction.

- We greatly need such positive stories - Ljevaković stated.

Military Mufti Nesib-ef. Hadžić expressed satisfaction with the large turnout at the iftar in the Ministry of Defense of BiH.

- People like to come to the Military Mufti's iftar, which is organized here, in the House of the Army, but also throughout BiH, from Banja Luka, Mostar, Doboj, Čapljina, Tuzla, Zenica, Sarajevo. These iftars are very special to us, and people respond very willingly - said Mufti Hadžić.



Speaking about the social context, he emphasized that in a time of absence of love, understanding, and empathy, it is particularly important to show the ability to dialogue and solve problems within Bosnia and Herzegovina.

- This iftar is an opportunity when we show that we are building bridges, not walls. Regardless of religious affiliation or nationality, we try to show that in the end, we are all human - Hadžić points out.

He stated that coexistence and mutual understanding have no alternative, expressing optimism and confidence that society can show much more and better than is currently visible.

The main chaplain of the U.S. European Command, Colonel Christian Chae, also addressed the attendees, emphasizing the role of religious communities in rebuilding societies after conflicts.

- Religious communities are beacons of hope and a key, essential factor in post-war reconstruction. When institutions collapse and the social fabric is torn apart, the mosque, church, synagogue, and temple often remain pillars of the community - said Chae.

Speaking about his impressions of Sarajevo, he highlighted the spirit and commitment to peace he recognized among the people.

- As I walked through beautiful Sarajevo today, I saw a vibrant spirit and an unwavering commitment to peace among the people. I felt deep admiration because I recognized in them - as I see in you - the very essence of hope and resilience. You are an inspiration - added Chae.

Numerous representatives of religious, political, and military life of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the international community attended the iftar.

Among them were the President of the Islamic Community Assembly in BiH Edhem Bičakčić, the Minister of Defense of BiH Zukan Helez with his deputies, the Minister for Human Rights and Refugees Sevlid Hurtić, the Parliamentary Military Commissioner Boško Šiljegović, and the Chief of the Joint Staff of the BiH Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Gojko Knežević with his associates.

Also present were the Commander of the NATO Headquarters in Sarajevo, Brigadier General Matthew Valas, the Deputy Commander of EUFOR Althea Mustafa Četin Čelik, Military Bishop Miro Relota, Archpriest Milorad Milinković, Director of the Media Center of the Islamic Community in BiH Muamer Tinjak, as well as numerous generals, officers, representatives of the institutions of the Islamic Community, and the diplomatic corps.

Before the iftar, a Yasin was recited for the souls of former military muftis hafiz Abdulah-ef. Kurbegović and hafiz Abduselam-ef. Džumhur.