In Islamic state, only the state can declare jihad: Field Marshal Asim Munir

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has said that in an Islamic state, no one except the state can declare jihad.

Addressing the National Ulema and Mashaikh Conference in Islamabad, he said that victories in righteous battles are achieved with Allah’s support. He urged religious scholars to keep the nation united and to broaden the people’s vision.

The Chief of Defence Forces said that Allah has bestowed upon Pakistan the honour of being the guardian of the holy sites among all Muslim countries, and warned that nations that abandon knowledge and the pen invite chaos. He also highlighted the deep connection between the state of Tayyaba (Saudi Arabia) and Pakistan, describing the defence pact between the two countries as historic.

Gen Asim Munir called India a source of terrorism, saying Pakistan confronts its enemy openly rather than attacking from the shadows.

“Respect and power are not achieved through division but through hard work and knowledge,” he said, adding, “Terrorism is not Pakistan’s habit; it is India’s. We confront our enemy openly, not from hiding.”

Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at the same conference, said it is essential to eliminate sectarianism and called on scholars to play their part.

He added that some religious leaders still discuss sectarianism, stressing that ending sectarian divisions is a need of the hour.

The prime minister said Pakistan is striving for economic development, but terrorism cannot coexist with these efforts. “For this country to progress, terrorism must end,” he added.

He warned that militants from Afghanistan are carrying out attacks in Pakistan, leading to the martyrdom of citizens, while innocent people in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are falling victim to extremist groups.

 “If this continues, how will the country develop? Progress cannot come through magic or shortcuts — only through day and night hard work. The entire nation must unite on national issues.”