Syrian Alawi council denies reports of Sheikh Ghazzal's death in Erbil

ERBIL, Iraq — The Supreme Alawi Islamic Council of Syria and the Diaspora has rejected reports that Sheikh Ghazzal Ghazzal, one of the highest religious authorities for the Alawi community, was killed in Erbil. In a statement, the council said claims that the sheikh had been martyred or harmed at his location were "entirely unfounded." The council called on the Alawi community not to give credence to rumors and campaigns aimed at creating "fear, confusion and outrage." It urged restraint as local websites and social media platforms circulated accounts of his death in Erbil. Sheikh Ghazzal is regarded as one of the most prominent religious authorities within Syria's Alawi community. The council did not provide further details on his current whereabouts or condition.