ISLAMABAD, Sunday, December 21, 2025 (WNP): Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir delivered a comprehensive and wide-ranging address at the National Ulema and Mashaikh Conference, underscoring Pakistan’s security challenges, the fight against terrorism, and the central role of knowledge and scholarship in national resilience.
The conference, held on December 10, 2025, brought together prominent religious scholars and spiritual leaders representing all schools of thought from across the country, reflecting broad-based participation and consensus-building.
Addressing the gathering, Field Marshal Asim Munir spoke in detail on terrorism, national security, defence preparedness, and Pakistan’s evolving role in the international community. Quoting verses from the Holy Qur’an alongside classical poetic references, he outlined what he described as a principled and faith-inspired vision for Pakistan.
He stated that Allah Almighty has bestowed upon Pakistan a unique honour among Islamic nations, describing the country as the Protector of the Haramain, and emphasized a deep ideological and spiritual connection between the State of Madinah (Riyasat-e-Tayyaba) and the State of Pakistan.
“The foundation of both states rests on the Kalima-e-Tayyaba, and both came into being during the blessed month of Ramadan,” he said, adding that while one state was destined to be the Custodian of the Haramain, Pakistan was entrusted with their protection.
Referring to Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, the Field Marshal said the operation was marked by a strong sense of divine support, noting that the assistance of Allah was “clearly witnessed and deeply felt” during its execution.
He categorically stressed that in any Islamic state, the authority to declare or issue a decree of jihad rests solely with the state, and that no individual or group holds such a mandate.
Addressing internal and regional security concerns, Field Marshal Asim Munir said that terrorist attacks targeting innocent Pakistani citizens, including children, were being carried out with the backing of Afghan Taliban elements. He disclosed that nearly 70 percent of the formations of Fitna-al-Khawarij operating against Pakistan originate from Afghanistan and include Afghan nationals.
He emphasized that Afghanistan must make a clear and decisive choice between supporting such elements or maintaining peaceful and constructive relations with Pakistan.
Concluding his address, the Field Marshal warned that nations which abandon the intellectual and scholarly legacy of their forefathers, and neglect the power of knowledge and the pen, are destined for decline. He urged religious scholars to play an active role in promoting learning, unity, and national cohesion to steer the country toward stability and progress.
The conference concluded with a reaffirmation of collective commitment by religious leaders to counter extremism, strengthen national unity, and support Pakistan’s efforts toward peace and security.
