Iraq’s most influential Shiite cleric, Ali al-Sistani, called on Monday for an end to the Israel’s “brutal” attacks on Lebanon and the protection of the Lebanese people. In a rare political statement, al-Sistani called for “every possible effort to stop this ongoing barbaric aggression.” He also urged “believers to contribute towards alleviating the suffering [of the Lebanese people] and securing their humanitarian needs.” The 94-year-old cleric expressed solidarity with the Lebanese people as “they are increasingly facing the brutal Israeli aggression,” including the recent coordinated blasts…