KARACHI — Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has emphasised that only the state holds the authority to declare jihad against an aggressor — a responsibility that no individual or group can assume on its own.
Speaking during his official visit to Karachi on Sunday, Lt Gen Chaudhry addressed citizens from various backgrounds, underscoring the importance of national unity. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), he said that Pakistanis of all faiths enjoy equal rights under the Constitution, and that peace and equality are essential for maintaining unity.
“Divisions along racial or linguistic lines are unacceptable. All citizens of Pakistan are equal. No one can defeat Pakistan if we remain united,” he stated.
His remarks came in the context of last month’s tense military standoff between Pakistan and India. The two countries engaged in several days of hostilities following a militant attack in India-occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam region. The confrontation involved missile strikes, drone operations, and cyberattacks before a ceasefire was announced by US President Donald Trump, reportedly at New Delhi’s request.
Lt Gen Chaudhry accused India of supporting terrorist groups operating in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, which has experienced a simmering insurgency for over two decades. He said the Pakistan Army is countering these threats through modern warfare tactics.
During his visit to Karachi — Pakistan’s economic hub — the ISPR chief was received warmly and engaged with people from various segments of society.
