Yazidi Spiritual Leader Baba Sheikh Hospitalized in Duhok, Condition Stable

Baba Sheikh Ali Elias, the spiritual head of the Yazidi community, was admitted to a hospital in Duhok, northern Iraq, late Friday night following a health complication linked to exhaustion. Medical officials have confirmed that his condition is stable and he is currently under close observation.

According to Sheikh Sabah, the official spokesperson for the religious leader, the episode was triggered by intense physical strain from several weeks of religious duties at the Lalish Temple, the most sacred site for Yazidis.

“The Baba Sheikh is receiving medical care and responding well to treatment. He is expected to be discharged soon after completing his recovery,” said Sheikh Sabah in a statement.

Baba Sheikh Ali Elias was appointed in 2020 following the death of his predecessor, Khurto Hajji Ismail, a respected religious figure who passed away at age 87. As the highest spiritual authority of the Yazidis, Baba Sheikh is responsible for overseeing religious guidance, traditional ceremonies, and community affairs both in Iraq and within the global Yazidi diaspora.

His hospitalization has sparked concern across the Yazidi population, with messages of support and prayers pouring in from community members and religious leaders worldwide.