Asim Munir meets Shia scholars in Rawalpindi, warns against sectarian violence

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir met scholars from the Shia school of thought in Rawalpindi, where discussions focused on national security, social harmony and the role of religious leaders in countering sectarian narratives, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

During the meeting, Field Marshal Munir said religious scholars had a vital role to play in discouraging misinformation and resisting narratives that fuel sectarian division. He stressed that unity, tolerance and national cohesion were essential at a time of regional strain.

He also said religious sentiments must not be exploited to incite violence, warning that unrest in Pakistan on the basis of events in another country would not be tolerated.

According to the ISPR, the field marshal briefed the participants on Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions in the region and also referred to Operation Ghazab Lil Haq, which the military has previously described as part of its wider response to security threats along the Pakistan-Afghanistan frontier.

Munir also said the Afghan Taliban must prevent their territory from being used for terrorism against Pakistan, adding that Islamabad would not accept the use of Afghan soil for attacks inside Pakistan.

The ISPR said the scholars expressed a desire for peace and stability in the region, condemned violence carried out in the name of religion, and assured law enforcement agencies of their full support.