Fazlur Rehman announces nationwide protests in support of Armed Forces

Islamabad: On Friday, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman addressed the National Assembly, expressing dissatisfaction with Pakistan’s diplomatic approach during the ongoing tensions with India. While voicing strong support for the Pakistan Army, he criticized the government’s failure to mobilize sufficient international backing.

Fazlur Rehman claimed Indian forces had targeted religious seminaries and mosques in their recent operations. In response, he announced that “Youm-e-Difa” (National Defense Day) would be observed across Pakistan and unveiled plans for mass public rallies — including a “Million March” in Peshawar on May 11 and another in Quetta on May 15.

Despite admitting to having past differences with the military on various issues, he assured lawmakers that the nation would firmly stand with the armed forces in times of national threat. He urged swift government action against fake news and war propaganda circulating on social media platforms.

Calling for unity, Fazlur Rehman said that a divided nation cannot face such external threats. He instructed members of his party’s paramilitary wing, Ansar-ul-Islam, to be ready for civil defense duties if necessary, emphasizing that the country’s survival depends on standing behind its army with full strength.

He harshly criticized the current diplomatic engagement by Pakistan, stating that foreign missions should be more proactive in rallying support from friendly countries. “Strategic visits and alliances are needed now more than ever,” he said, calling the existing efforts “insufficient and unimpressive.”

In a strong statement, Fazlur Rehman also accused India of using Israeli weapons against Pakistan. He demanded that both India and Israel be addressed jointly as aggressors, and called for a united and firm national response to both countries.