Fazlur Rehman Alleges Plot Against Religious Seminaries in Pakistan

Bhakkar: Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has said that a propaganda campaign is being run against religious seminaries in Pakistan, warning that a conspiracy is underway to weaken and divide Islamic institutions.

Speaking at a public rally in Bhakkar, Maulana Fazl said madrasas have played a key role in shaping the moral and religious values of society, and efforts to discredit them are part of a larger agenda to undermine religion.

On international matters, he strongly condemned Israeli attacks on Gaza, criticizing the global silence over the killing of tens of thousands of Palestinians. “Where are the international organizations and the UN now?” he asked, adding that over 70,000 Palestinians, including children and the elderly, have been martyred.

He further criticized the West’s double standards, questioning why Israeli PM Netanyahu has not been held accountable despite being declared a war criminal by the International Court of Justice. “If Saddam Hussein was tried, why not Netanyahu?” he asked.

Maulana Fazl rejected any recognition of Israel, saying it would be a betrayal of the Palestinian cause. “Palestinians want their own homeland — recognizing Israel means denying Palestine,” he said.

He called on the Muslim world to unite for Palestine and defend Islamic values and institutions, saying the protection of seminaries is the responsibility of all Muslims.

Separately, the JUI-F chief has also become active in efforts to defuse tensions related to ongoing Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protests.

According to sources, Maulana Fazl contacted Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and PM’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah, stressing the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution. He urged both federal and provincial governments to avoid confrontation and engage the TLP in talks.

Government officials confirmed that efforts are underway to start negotiations with the TLP in order to resolve the issue through peaceful means.