Mufti Taqi Usmani calls on Muslim govts to declare jihad against Israel

Mufti Taqi Usmani, the grand mufti of Pakistan, has called for a total boycott of Israel and its allies, urging Muslim nations to declare jihad a necessary duty in response to Israel’s ongoing attacks on Palestine.

Addressing the National Palestine Conference in Islamabad, Mufti Usmani expressed deep disappointment with the international community’s muted response to Israel’s actions.

He strongly criticized both Israel and the United States for disregarding international law and labeled the United Nations as a mere “puppet” controlled by these powers.

He condemned the US for its unwavering support of Israel despite the continued bloodshed in Gaza.

Mufti Usmani noted that even under a ceasefire agreement, Israel’s bombardment of Gaza had not ceased. He also denounced a recent statement by the U.S. Secretary of State, who indicated that the US would stand with Israel regardless of how many Muslims were killed.

He voiced frustration at the lack of unity and action from the Muslim Ummah in defending Al-Aqsa Mosque, Islam’s first Qibla, stressing that jihad is essential in this cause. He criticized Muslim leaders for limiting their support to financial aid without taking any bold or meaningful steps. “What is the purpose of Muslim armies if they do not participate in jihad?” he asked.

Mufti Usmani reaffirmed that offering material, moral, and humanitarian support to the Palestinian people is a religious duty for all Muslims. He reiterated Pakistan’s firm stance of not recognizing Israel, citing the words of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who called Israel an “illegitimate child,” and stressed that Pakistan would never establish ties with the country.