Which country has the largest percentage of Shiites?
Islam is divided into two major denominations, Sunni and Shi’a. Of the total Muslim population, 87–90% are Sunni and 10–13% are Shi’a. Most Shi’as (between 68% and 80%) live in mainly four countries: Iran, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, and Iraq.
Are there more Sunni or Shiite in Iran?
Iran is unique in the Muslim world because its population is overwhelmingly more Shia than Sunni (Shia constitute 95% of the population) and because its constitution is theocratic republic based on rule by a Shia jurist.
What is the difference between Sunni radicals and Shi’a extremists?
First and foremost, Sunni radicals and Shi’a extremists differ in the overall approach and main objectives for their use of terror. The former tend to operate in a continuous, mid‐to‐high intensity manner, seeing war against infidels and apostates as a perennial condition featuring overlapping waves.
What is the difference between Sunnis and Shiites?
“Sunni” in Arabic means “one who follows the traditions of the Prophet.” Shiites believed that the new leader should have been Muhammad’s cousin/son-in-law, Ali bin Abu Talib. As a result, Shiites have their own Imams, who they consider holy.
Is there a Sunni/Shi’ite rift in the world?
This is less a matter of a Sunni/Shi’ite rift and more based on the dominent culture of the countries in which they are practiced. Currently the only Shi’a majority country on earth is Iran. Prior to the fall of the Shah in 1979, Iran was very secular and ‘modern’. Here’s a picture from pre-revolution days:
Why are Saudi Shiites and Sunnis fighting each other?
Saudi Sunnis accuse Saudi Shiites of funding terrorism against Sunnis in Iraq, 16 while Saudi Shiites accuse Saudi Sunnis of funneling funds to Sunni terrorists in Iraq. Saudi Shiites are also worried about extremists in their midst.