Fazl-ur-Rehman Declares Armed Action in Pakistan Haram

Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, leader of Pakistan’s Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, has stated that all religious scholars across the country—from Karachi to Chitral and Gilgit—are unanimously in agreement that armed action in Pakistan is religiously impermissible. He made these remarks at a memorial prayer ceremony for Maulana Idris and addressed armed opponents of the Pakistani government, saying those who call themselves ‘mujahideen’ should reconsider their claims. According to him, using the term jihad to justify internal armed conflicts has no religious basis. Fazl-ur-Rehman further criticized these groups sharply, stating, “We are educated individuals and are not ignorant like you.” He emphasized that Pakistan’s religious scholars hold a unified stance on this issue and reject the path of violence. Previously recognized as an influential figure closely connected to the Afghan Taliban, Fazl-ur-Rehman’s firm rejection of armed action in Pakistan comes amid ongoing insecurity and sporadic attacks in parts of the country. Some observers believe such statements could influence the religious discourse on the legitimacy of violence in the region.