Dealing With The Cleric

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Sistani's challenge to the U.S. has made him, says an adviser to the Administration, "the most respected man in the country." His popularity is magnified by his reputation for moral probity. Designated a marja-e taqlid, or a source of emulation, the highest position in Shi'ite Islam, Sistani shuns material comforts. He meets with visitors in a simple, spare room, carpeted, with cushions around the walls. "He wears inexpensive clothes so that he can sit side by side with the poorest man who comes to see him," says Jalil, the religious student. "When people ask a question, he smiles at them to make them feel comfortable. I don't think anyone who came before him or anyone who will come after will be as kind."

Sistani does have detractors among Shi'ites who argue that as an Iranian, he does not represent Iraqis. Some characterize his quietist approach as cowardly. Chief among Sistani's rivals is outspoken cleric Moqtada al-Sadr, who has built a following among poor, urban Shi'ites by calling on them to resist the U.S. occupation.

Because he has refused to meet with journalists and U.S. officials, the Bush Administration has had a hard time figuring out Sistani's game plan. But many Administration officials are hopeful his role will be positive. Washington is already grateful that the ayatullah, while refusing to endorse the occupation, urged his followers to cooperate with the Americans early on. Says a senior U.S. intelligence official: "Sistani can prove to be one of the bigger forces for stability." A State Department official, on the other hand, says: "I am skeptical that anyone really understands what Sistani's about." The world may be about to find out.