United against India, not against Afghanistan: Fazl

JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has said that while the nation would stand united in the event of a conflict with India, the same unity cannot be expected if tensions escalate with Afghanistan, adding that "this is something that needs to be understood".

He made these remarks while addressing the "Solidarity with Palestine and Tribute to Shaheed Maulana Hamidul Haq" conference. Fazl stressed the importance of unity and the need for continuity in the struggles led by religious and political movements.

Taking aim at the ruling elite, Fazl claimed that during colonial times, the current political class sided with the British. "Those who were loyal to the British were rewarded with states and privileges - and they continue to enjoy those benefits to this day," he added.

The JUI-F chief highlighted what he called the "fragmentation" of the Muslim world, noting that a "divided body" cannot defend itself. "We are facing multidimensional crises. Afghanistan endured 20 years of war before achieving victory, and just as its 'wounds were fresh', the issue of Palestine erupted."

Drawing parallels between the global treatment of the Taliban and Hamas, he said both have been labelled as terrorist organizations. "The conflict began on Oct 7. On Oct 14, during our million march, a Hamas representative joined us. I call Hamas representatives mujahideen," he declared.

He also recalled his visit to express solidarity following the martyrdom of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and stressed the importance of Muslim unity.