Shia vs Sunni: Unpacking the Historic Divide Fueling Middle East Conflicts

• The core dispute between Shia and Sunni Muslims originated after Prophet Muhammad's demise over who should lead the Muslim community.
• Sunnis, comprising 90% of global Muslims, believe in elected Caliphs, recognizing Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali as the first four leaders.
• Shias, 10-15% of global Muslims, believe leadership should be hereditary, stemming from Prophet's family, recognizing Ali as the first Imam.
• Both communities share fundamental Islamic beliefs like one God, the Quran, Prophet Muhammad, and core worship practices (Salah, Sawm, Hajj, Zakat).
• Differences extend to prayer methods, mourning rituals (especially for Husayn's martyrdom), and the authority of Hadith narrators, often fueling regional conflicts.