Iranians, along with Shia Muslims across the world, are celebrating the birth anniversary of Islam’s Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the last messenger sent by Allah to mankind.

Prophet Muhammad was born on the 17th day of the lunar calendar month of Rabi-ul-Awwal in 570 CE. The date coincides with the birth anniversary of Imam Ja’far Sadiq (PBUH), the sixth Shia Imam.

According to the Sunni narrative, the birth date of the Prophet (PBUH) falls on Rabi-ul-Awwal 12.

As per a call made by the late Founder of the Islamic Republic Imam Khomeini, the week in between the two dates has been designated as “the Islamic Unity Week” to promote convergence among Muslims.

During this week, followers of the two main branches of Islam gather to honor the religion's message of fraternity and humanity, expressing their love and affection for their Prophet.

In Iran, people from all walks of life take part in celebrations and other rituals to commemorate the birth anniversary of the Prophet, which had a divine message to promote peace and monotheism throughout the world.

On Tuesday, Iran’s President Hassan Rouhani wrote separate messages of felicitation to the leaders of other Muslim countries, congratulating them on the occasion.

Also on Tuesday, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei pardoned and ordered commuting of the sentences of 1,007 prisoners on the auspicious occasion.