Branches of the Yamani Claimant Movement: A Deep Dive into Internal Divisions
Contrary to popular belief, the Yamani claimant movement is far from a unified group. Over time, it has splintered into several factions, each with its own beliefs, practices, and leadership. Although many of these groups agree on the existence of 24 Imams, even fundamental elements like prayer practices and the Qibla direction differ among them. Below is a brief overview of the key branches within this movement:
1. The Najaf School
This faction is led by figures such as Alaa Salem, Nazem Al-Aqeeli, Wathiq Al-Husseini, and others. They believe in the existence of an individual named Ahmad, described in narrations as the son and envoy of the Twelfth Imam (peace be upon him). According to them, this Ahmad is in communication with followers—primarily via Facebook—to prepare for the Imam’s final appearance.
2. Rayat Al-Sud (The Black Banners)
Rayat Al-Sud outright rejects the identity of Ahmad accepted by the Najaf school. Their core beliefs include:
- Occultation of Ahmad Basri: They claim he has been in occultation since 2008, following the Al-Zarqa military base incident.
- Meeting with Imam Mahdi: They state that on the day of King Abdullah’s death, Ahmad Basri brought 12 followers to meet the Mahdi, who criticized the Najaf school’s betrayal.
- Warnings Against Treason: Ahmad reportedly warned in early writings about future betrayals for material gain.
- Rejection of Later Writings: Books published after 2008 are dismissed as forgeries full of errors.
- Violation of Divine Law: The Najaf school’s involvement with the Basra provincial council is considered a betrayal of divine sovereignty.
- The Role of Abdullah Hashim: A filmmaker believed to be the “second Mahdi” from Sheikh Tusi’s will.
Key Figures:
Supporters of this faction include Ali Al-Gharifi and Abdullah Hashim, who are critical of the Najaf school. In contrast, the Najaf school is defended by Nazem Al-Aqeeli, Wathiq Al-Husseini, Abdul Rahim Abu Muadh, and Alaa Salem.
Controversial Behaviors:
Rayat Al-Sud members endorse Ahmad Basri’s images as authentic. Those who deny them are dismissed as ignorant. Reported behaviors among members include abandoning prayer, alcohol consumption, lack of hijab, and support for homosexuality, which raise theological and social concerns.
3. Jaysh Al-Ghadab (Army of Wrath)
This faction evolved from the Ahmad Hamboushi sect and is currently based in Basra, Iraq, under the leadership of Razzaq Al-Jabri. While less documented than others, this group remains active and distinct.
4. Ahlas
Led by Mehdi Rahimi (an Iranian national), this group rejects the administrator of the official movement’s Facebook page, claiming he is not Ahmad Basri. As a result, they discredit many recent publications and critically review the movement’s evolving ideology. Personal tensions have also fueled this divide—Rahimi’s sister reportedly suffered abuse at the hands of Najaf school members and has made serious accusations.
Conclusion
The Yamani claimant movement has evolved into a set of fragmented groups, each claiming theological legitimacy while disputing the identity and authority of others. These internal schisms reflect deep doctrinal and political divisions within modern Shia fringe movements—making it clear that the path to the Mahdi, according to these groups, is far from agreed upon.
Source: https://daralhidaye.ir/en
