Iraq Shiite cleric Al Sistani dispels rumours of ailing health

Najaf: Top Iraqi Shiite cleric Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani held a rare press meeting on Sunday to dispel rumours of ailing health.

Al Sistani's office was unable to curb recent reports that the religious figure was unwell, despite repeated denials.

In the brief meeting, Iraq's Supreme Shiite leader dismissed reports that he had fallen seriously ill and chided reporters for spreading such reports.

"Recently, untrue rumours have surfaced about my health, and have caused anxiety among believers inside and outside Iraq," the cleric said.

"Journalists have to check their reports and abstain from publishing news that is not true," he added.