Non-Affiliation Statement

The Ismaili Warrior Alliance (IWA) is an independent, grassroots organization created by and for Ismaili veterans of the United States Armed Forces. This statement clarifies our organizational independence and relationships.

In Short:

IWA is veteran-led, veteran-run, and independent. We speak only for ourselves and our members, not for any government, military branch, or religious institution.

Independence from Religious Institutions

The Ismaili Warrior Alliance is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of:

  • The Ismaili Council for the United States of America
  • The Ismaili Imamat
  • Any Jamat (local congregation) or Jamatkhana (Ismaili Center)
  • Any Regional, National, or International Ismaili Council
  • Any Ismaili Board or institutional body
  • The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) or any of its agencies
  • Any Ismaili official institutions or governing bodies

While our members are practicing Ismaili Muslims who deeply value their faith, IWA operates independently of all Jamati structures and institutions. We are a private association of individuals united by shared military service and Ismaili heritage.

Independence from Government and Military

The Ismaili Warrior Alliance is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representative of:

  • The United States Department of Defense
  • Any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, Coast Guard)
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
  • Any federal, state, or local government agency
  • Any official military or veteran service organization

IWA is composed of honorably discharged veterans, but we do not represent the military, the government, or any official veteran organization. We are a private support network for Ismaili veterans.

What IWA Is

  • A grassroots organization: Founded by veterans, for veterans, operating independently
  • A private association: Membership is voluntary and by invitation only
  • A support network: Providing fellowship, mentorship, and mutual support among Ismaili veterans
  • Self-governed: Led by member volunteers without external oversight or control
  • Non-commercial: We do not sell products, services, or memberships
  • Apolitical: We do not endorse political candidates or engage in political lobbying

Member Views Are Individual

Statements, opinions, and views expressed by individual IWA members are their own and do not represent:

  • The official position of IWA as an organization
  • The views of other IWA members
  • The Ismaili community or any Ismaili institution
  • The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) or any of its agencies
  • Any Ismaili Council, Board, or official body
  • The U.S. military or Department of Defense
  • Any government agency or official body

IWA respects diverse viewpoints and encourages open dialogue. The presence of differing opinions within our membership reflects the diversity of thought among American veterans.

Use of Names, Symbols, and Imagery

Religious References

IWA uses Islamic and Ismaili cultural references (such as references to Hazrat Ali, Zulfiqar, and other historical figures) to honor our shared heritage. This usage:

  • Does not imply endorsement by or affiliation with Ismaili institutions
  • Reflects the personal faith and cultural identity of our members
  • Is intended to inspire and connect members to their heritage
  • Respects the deep historical significance of these symbols in Islamic tradition

Military References

IWA members share their military experiences and may reference:

  • Branch of service and general time periods of service
  • Military values, traditions, and culture
  • General job fields and roles (without classified details)

These references do not imply official military endorsement or affiliation. All members maintain operational security (OPSEC) and do not disclose classified information.

Disclaimers

Legal Disclaimer

IWA is an unincorporated association of private individuals. Nothing on this website or in IWA communications constitutes legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Members are encouraged to seek appropriate professional guidance for their individual needs.

Security Clearances

Many IWA members hold or have held security clearances. Membership in IWA is a private association and does not require reporting under most security clearance guidelines. However, members are responsible for understanding and complying with their own clearance requirements and reporting obligations.

Service Benefits

IWA does not assist with VA benefits claims, disability ratings, or other official military/veteran services. Members seeking these services should contact the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), or appropriate official channels.

Contact and Verification

If you have questions about IWA's affiliations or lack thereof:

For institutions or organizations wishing to verify that IWA is independent and not affiliated with your organization, we are happy to provide written confirmation.

Our Independence Is Our Strength

IWA's independence allows us to serve our members without conflicts of interest, institutional constraints, or outside agendas. We answer to no one but ourselves and our fellow warriors.

This independence was earned in uniform and upheld in our brotherhood. We stand on our own two feet, just as we did when we took the oath to defend the Constitution.

We are veterans. We are Ismaili. We are IWA. And we stand together, independent and proud.

Last Updated: October 2025

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