Libya's religious authority has banned Nike brand clothing

Libya's top religious authority, Dar al-Ifta, has issued a fatwa prohibiting Muslims from buying, selling, and wearing clothing with the Nike logo. As reported by BBC News, the theological institute in Tripoli ruled that the use of the US sports giant's branding is incompatible with Islamic norms. This decision was officially approved by the country's Grand Mufti, Sadiq al-Ghariani.

In their justification, the theologians pointed out that the brand was named after the ancient Greek goddess of victory, Nike, and its signature swoosh logo was inspired by her wings. According to the committee, wearing items with this emblem is equivalent to popularizing symbols associated with polytheism. Additionally, the organization was accused of supporting Israel, citing a statement from the Council for Research and Sharia Sciences dated November 5, 2023, calling for a boycott of Western companies amid the war in Gaza.

The issued fatwa is a theological interpretation of Islamic law, but it does not have the force of a state decree. The document does not contain an official state ban on the import of Nike products, and there are no sanctions provided for those who continue to buy or wear them. The corporation does not own branded stores in Libya, but original clothing is sold through local retailers, and copies of the brand are widely available in markets.

Previously, Dar al-Ifta has issued similar initiatives. Last year, the council banned the wearing of jewelry and watches from the French house Van Cleef & Arpels due to the four-leaf clover, which theologians linked to Christian traditions and a belief in luck that contradicts Islam. The new decision followed a series of other cultural restrictions: in 2025, Libyan authorities banned rap music, theatrical and dance performances under the pretext of protecting public morality.