Asim Munir says Pakistan received 'divine help' during 'Operation Sindoor'
What's the story
Pakistan's Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has claimed that the country received "divine help" during its military conflict with India in May. "We felt it," he said. The four-day conflict was sparked by India's "Operation Sindoor," which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation was launched on May 7 in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
Historical comparison
Munir draws parallels between Pakistan and early Islamic state
Munir's remarks came at the National Ulema Conference in Islamabad, where he also recited several verses from the Quran. He drew parallels between Pakistan and the state established by Prophet Muhammad 1,400 years ago in today's Saudi Arabia. The Field Marshal said there are 57 Islamic countries worldwide and among them, "God gave us the honor of being the protectors of Haramain Sharifain (literally, the two noble sanctuaries, a reference to Makkah and Madinah)."
Security concerns
Munir warns Afghan Taliban, criticizes TTP
In his speech, Munir also warned Afghanistan's Taliban regime to choose between supporting Pakistan or continuing their association with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). He claimed that a majority of terror groups infiltrating from Afghanistan are made up of Afghan nationals. "In the TTP formations coming [into Pakistan], 70% are Afghans. Is Afghanistan not spilling the blood of our Pakistani children?" he said.
Religious authority
Munir's stance on jihad in Islamic states
The Field Marshal also spoke about the authority to order jihad in an Islamic state. "No one can issue a fatwa for jihad without the order and permission and will of those vested with the authority," he said during the conference. The intense clashes between India and Pakistan ended with an understanding between the two countries' Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs)to cease the military actions on May 10.