
Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Weekly: February 22-March 1, 2025
The following are some of this week's reports from the MEMRI Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Project, which translates and analyzes content from sources monitored around the clock, among them the most important jihadi websites and blogs. (To view these reports in full, you must be a paying member of the JTTM; for membership information, send an email to jttmsubs@memri.org with "Membership" in the subject line.)
Note to media and government: For a full copy of these reports, send an email with the title of the report in the subject line to media@memri.org. Please include your name, title, and organization in your email.
EXCLUSIVE: Dozens Of Western Activists From The US, UK, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, And Portugal Attend Nasrallah's Funeral In Beirut, Hizbullah Outlet Reports
On February 23, 2025, a mass-event funeral for Hassan Nasrallah, the late secretary-general of Hizbullah, was held in Beirut, Lebanon.
EXCLUSIVE: Western Activists Attend Funeral Of Lebanese Hizbullah Leader Hassan Nasrallah, Express Support For 'Resistance'
On February 23, 2025, Hizbullah held a mass funeral for its slain leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Hashim Safi Al-Din in Beirut.
EXCLUSIVE: Report: Baloch Groups Battled Iranian Military Using Heavy Machine Guns, Suicide Bombers
In the afternoon on February 25, 2025, according to the local Baloch population, firing erupted between Baloch armed groups and the military forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, in Chabahar.
EXCLUSIVE: Afghan Taliban Media Outlet Warns: 'ISIS Militants Are Planning To Assassinate' Pakistani Religious Leader And Lawmaker Maulana Fazalur Rehman'
On February 18, 2025, a media outlet linked to the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (the Afghan Taliban) warned that ISIS jihadi fighters are planning to assassinate a Pakistani lawmaker and religious leader.
EXCLUSIVE: Official Taliban Statement Threatens Suicide Attacks On ICC After It Seeks Arrest Of Taliban Leader Mullah Hibbatullah: 'Sheikh Sahab (Hibbatullah)... Has Over 20 Million Young Istishhadi [Martyrdom-Seeking] Forces'
In a comprehensive report, a Pashtu-language Afghan daily examined the Taliban leaders' continuing use of Ishtishhadi ("martyrdom-seeking") forces, their deployment along the Afghanistan-Iran border during disputes between the two countries, threats to use suicide bombers against Pakistan, and a recent official Taliban statement threatening to execute suicide attacks against the judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) based in the Hague.
Iran-Backed Syrian Popular Resistance Eulogizes Hassan Nasrallah; Honors Him With Attacks On Syrian Government
The Syrian Popular Resistance issued a statement eulogizing late Hizbullah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah on the occasion of his funeral in Beirut, Lebanon.
Syrian Popular Resistance Recruits Youth For Armed Confrontation While Celebrating Announced Secession Of Local Military Council From The Syrian Government
Telegram channels supportive of the Iran-backed Syrian Popular Resistance called on youth the join the group's ranks.
'Syrian Popular Resistance' Criticizes Druze For Affiliation With Israel, Ahmed Al-Sharaa's Fostering Of 'American Jihad'; Vows To Continue Fighting Against All Enemies
The "Syrian Popular Resistance," an armed formation which opposes the new Syrian administration linked to jihadi group Hay'at Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) and Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, aka Abu Muhammad Al-Joulani, issued a series of messages attacking Al-Sharaa forces and the Druze for seeking the approval of Israel and the United States, declaring that its forces know who the enemies are.
Two Syrian Resistance Militias Announce Cooperation Against 'Terrorist' Regime And 'Occupation' Forces
On February 19, on their Telegram channels, two newly-formed Syrian militias posted a joint statement that bears the logos of both militias.
Syrian Foreign Ministry Welcomes EU's Partial Lifting Of Sanctions On Syria, Calls All Countries To Fully Remove Sanctions
On February 24, 2025, the European Union Council lifted some of its sanctions on Syria, removing restrictions in the energy and transport sectors, ending the freezing of funds and economic resources from four banks and the Syrian Arab Airlines, introducing exemptions allowing transactions with Syrian banks in the energy and transport sectors and those needed for humanitarian and reconstruction purposes, indefinitely extending the existing humanitarian exemption, and allowing the export of luxury goods to Syria for personal use.
Syrian Interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa's Appearance On Horseback In Damascus Sparks Reactions from Jihadi Clerics, HTS Supporters, And Syrians, Stirring Debates On Power, Betrayal, And Political Messaging
On February 19, 2025, pro-Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS) Telegram channels shared a video and photos of Syrian interim President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, also known as Abu Mohammad Al-Joulani, riding a horse on a racetrack in Damascus.
Houthis Publish Poster Promoting 'Confrontation' With Jews Everywhere Including America
On February 21, 2025, the website of Iran-backed Yemen's Ansar Allah Movement (Houthis) published a poster, on its Telegram channel, featuring a statement from an archived speech given by a Houthi leader to mark Al-Quds Day.
Article By Houthis Warns: President Trump's Words On Gaza Are Sharp Like Swords, But Houthis' Military Action Will Thwart His Plan
On February 18, 2025, Yemen's Iran-backed Ansar Allah Movement (the Houthis) published an article on its website in English, titled: "Trump's Storm Has Yet To Begin: The Plan Goes Beyond Displacement."
Hizbullah Leader Na'im Qassem At Nasrallah Funeral: We Will Continue On Path Of Resistance 'Even If Our Homes Are Destroyed Above Our Heads;' Israel Must Complete Its Withdrawal; 'The Tyrannical U.S. Will Not Control Us'
On February 23, 2025, Secretary-General of Lebanese Hizbullah, sheikh Na'im Qassem, delivered a 34-minute pre-recorded speech during a funeral for two Hizbullah leaders, Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safi Al-Din, who were assassinated by Israel on September 27, 2024, and on October 4, 2024, respectively, in a southern suburb of Beirut.
For First Time Since He Was Appointed, Amid Rumors He Was In Iran, Hizbullah Posts Photo, Video Of Leader Na'im Qassem In Meetings In Lebanon With Iranian Officials
On February 26, 2025, Hizbullah announced that its Secretary-General Na'im Qassem met with Iranian Foreign Minister and Speaker of the Parliament of Iran in Lebanon, before the two departed Beirut after traveling there to attend the February 23 funeral of Hizbullah leaders Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safi Al-Din.
Official Delegations From Iran, Yemen, And Iraq Attend Funeral Of Slain Lebanese Hizbullah Leaders Hassan Nasrallah And Hashim Safi Al-Din
On February 23, 2025, Lebanese Hizbullah held a formal funeral in Beirut for its leaders, Hassan Nasrallah and Hashim Safi Al-Din, who were assassinated by Israel on September 27 and October 4, 2024, respectively.
Ahead Of Hassan Nasrallah Funeral, Senior Resistance Officials In Iraq, Yemen, Syria Pay Last Respects, Vow 'Like Sons To Their Father' To Adhere To Jihad Against 'Occupiers' And 'Tyrants'
On February 23, 2025, Lebanese Hizbullah held a mass funeral for two of its leaders, Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safi Al-Din, who were assassinated by Israel on September 27, 2024, and on October 4, 2024, respectively, in a southern Beirut suburb.
Iraqi Shi'ite Cleric Muqtada Al-Sadr Calls For Stronger Regional Solidarity To Reject Palestinian Displacement, Resist U.S. Influence, Maintain Stability In The Middle East
On February 18, 2025, an Iraqi Shi'ite populist cleric posted a statement on both his official X account and on his Telegram channel, addressing the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, emphasizing Arab unity, resistance to U.S. influence, and the protection of Palestinian rights.
After Hassan Nasrallah Funeral, Senior Officials Of Iran-Backed Iraqi Militias Vow To Continue On His Path: 'Avenging You Is An Obligation For All Free Men'
On February 23, 2025, Lebanese Hizbullah held a public funeral for two of its leaders, Hassan Nasrallah and Hashem Safi Al-Din, who were assassinated by Israel on September 27, 2024, and on October 4, 2024, respectively, in a southern Beirut suburb.
In Ten Days, Islamic State (ISIS) Affiliates In Africa Claim Killing Five Christians, Burning 20 Homes In DRC, Nigeria, Mozambique
In ten days of activity, from February 12-22, 2025, the Islamic State Mozambique Province (ISMP), Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP), and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) claimed five attacks against Christians.
Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Newsletter Releases Exclusive Photos Documenting Operations In Afghanistan, DRC, And Niger
On February 21, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released issue 483 of its weekly newsletter.
Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Editorial Lashes Out At Muslims For Abandoning Jihad; Scoffs At Shiites For 'Failing' To Uphold Faith, Vowing: 'Jihad Will Persist Until The Day Of Judgment'
On February 20, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released issue 483 of its weekly newsletter.
WARNING – GRAPHIC: Islamic State Mozambique Province (ISMP) Documents Attack On Mozambican Army, Killing Two, Seizing Weaponry And Ammunition
On February 21, 2025, Islamic State Mozambique Province (ISMP) released a statement claiming that on February 20, its fighters attacked a Mozambican army barracks with various weapons in the village of Bilibiza, in the Quissanga district of Cabo Delgado province.
Afghan Taliban Media Outlet: ISIS Delegation From Syria Met With ISKP Commanders In Balochistan Province Of Pakistan
On February 23, 2025, a media outlet linked to the General Directorate of Intelligence (GDI) of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (the Afghan Taliban) claimed that a high-level delegation of the Islamic State (ISIS) met with senior commanders of its Khurasan branch in Pakistan.
ISKP Scholar In Podcast: Afghan Taliban Are Like Jews, Christians, Apostates, And Polytheists; Fighting Them Is Jihad
Recently, an online media outlet released three episodes of its Pashtu-language podcasts in which an Islamic State Khurasan Province (ISKP) religious scholar discussed relations between unbelievers and Muslims and cited examples from early Islamic history to argue that any Muslim siding with unbelievers becomes an apostate.
ISKP-Linked Media Outlet Video On Facebook Warns Muslims Not To Join Other Jihadi Groups
On February 13, 2025, an outlet linked to the Islamic State Khurasan Province (ISKP) released a four-minute Pashtu-language video warning Muslims not to join other jihadi groups such as the Taliban, Hamas, Hayat Al-Tahrir Shaam (HTS), and others who collaborate with non-Muslims.
Sharing Photos And Documents From Islamic State (ISIS) Somalia Province, Supporters Praise ISIS For Implementing Shari'a, Discount Success Of Offensive Against Somalia Province
Since December 2024, forces of Somalia's semi-autonomous Puntland region, in the country's northeast, have been engaged in an offensive against a stronghold of the Islamic State (ISIS) Somalia Province in the mountains of the Bari region.
Islamic State (ISIS) Sahel Province, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) Document Attacks In Western Niger, Northeastern Nigeria; Casualties Reported In Niger
On February 21, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) Sahel Province released a statement claiming that its operatives assaulted a position of "apostate Nigerien forces" in Sakoira, Niger's Tillaberi region, on February 19, reportedly clashing with them using "various weapons."
Islamic State (ISIS) Critic Claims Group's Leadership Breached By Turkey; 'Caliphate Nucleus' No Longer In Syria; Future Decisions Likely To Be Made Elsewhere
On February 21, 2025, an anti-Islamic State (ISIS) media outlet published a series of posts questioning the status of Syria as the nucleus of ISIS's self-proclaimed caliphate, and claiming that the organization's branches in Syria and Iraq have been breached by the Turkish intelligence service.
Poster By German-Language Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Media Outlet Threatens Spanish Cathedral, Uses Hashtag 'Let's Slaughter' To Incite Attacks In West
On February 22, 2025, a pro-Islamic State (ISIS) media outlet released a poster in English and German versions titled: "O Muwahid [monotheist], Where Are You?" calling on Muslims to "make the next news yourself and show them your anger at what is happening to the Muslims.
Pro-ISIS Poster Tells Lone Wolf Attackers To Target Four Public Events In Germany, Including One Held This Week
On February 24, 2025, a pro-Islamic State (ISIS) media outlet released a poster in English and German promoting lone wolf attacks in Germany.
Islamic State (ISIS) Supporter Condemns Continued Pursuit Of ISIS Sympathizers In Syria; Calls Interim President Al-Sharaa A 'Chameleon' Who Carries Seeds Of Self-Destruction
On February 8, 2025, an Islamic State (ISIS) supporter on Telegram published commentary highlighting the ideological divide in the jihadi scene – particularly in Syria.
In Photos: Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Reports Takeover Of Two Towns In Southern Somalia
On February 25, 2025, the media arm of the Somalia-based Al-Shabab Movement, reported that another media wing of Al-Shabab had published a series of photos documenting the group's takeover of the town of Ali Ahmed in Central Shabelle state, southern Somalia.
In New Video: Al-Shabab Leader Abu Ubaydah And Senior Commanders Convene A 'Consultative Meeting' With Group's 'Political And Wilayat Office' To Discuss Governance, Ideological Goals
On February 25, 2025, the Somali-language media wing of Al-Shabab, released a video documenting the group's consultative, or advisory, meeting between the General Command of Al-Shabab group and members of the Political and Wilayat [Provinces] Office.
Al-Qaeda Affiliate, Al-Shabab, Concludes Leadership 'Consultative Meeting' Encouraging Jihad Against Somali Government, Ethiopia, And Turkey, To Preserve Land, Wealth, And Rule Of Islam
On February 25, 2025, the media arm of the Somalia-based Al-Shabab group, published the "closing statement" of a February 18 meeting between Al-Shabab's senior command and the administrative body of the group's "Islamic provinces."
Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Claims Deaths Of Dozens Of Somali Soldiers, Takeover Of Somali Intelligence, Military Bases In Central Somalia
In a series of statements on February 25, 2025, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Somalia, Harakat Al-Shabab Al-Mujahideen (Al-Shabab) claimed responsibility for the attack and takeover of a Somali Armed Forces military base and an intelligence base in central Somalia's Hiran region on the same day.
Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Claims 'Sweeping' Attacks Against Government Militias in Somalia's Middle Shabelle Province, Taking Over Four Towns
In a series of statements on February 20, the media arm of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Somalia, Harakat Al-Shabab Al-Mujahideen (Al-Shabab), reported on "sweeping, wide-scale" attacks against four towns and their government militia bases in Somalia's Middle Shabelle province.
Al-Qaeda Affiliate Group For The Support Of Islam And Muslims (GSIM) Launches Attacks In Eastern Mali And Northern Burkina Faso
On February 18-19, 2025, Al-Qaeda's affiliate in the Sahel, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM), launched attacks on the Malian and Burkinabe armies, as well as Russian Wagner Group fighters.
Al-Qaeda In The Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) Denies Connection To 2021 Kidnapping And Recent Release Of Yemeni Sunni Preacher
Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) released a statement denying involvement in the 2021 kidnapping of a Sunni preacher in the city of Tarim, in Yemen's Hadramawt Governorate, arguing such acts are not part of its normal operations.
Al-Qaeda In The Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) Eulogizes Operatives Killed In U.S. Airstrikes, Releases Photos Of 'Martyred' Fighters
On February 22, 2025, Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) released a three-page statement eulogizing two of its operatives killed in U.S. airstrikes in southern Yemen on unspecified dates.
Al-Qaeda Central Command Eulogizes Hamas Military Chief Mohammad Deif, Urges Gazans To Continue Jihad, Implement Shari'a
On February 20, 2025, Al-Qaeda's Central Command issued a two-page Arabic-language "Statement on the Martyrdom of the Sword of Jerusalem, Sheikh Mohammad Deif – May Allah Accept Him."
Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Statement Rejects Allegations By Pakistan's UN Ambassador That TTP Operates From Afghanistan
In a February 13, 2025 Urdu-language statement, the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) rejected as Pakistani "propaganda" Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Munir Akram's assertions at the UN Security Council that the TTP operates from Afghanistan.
Dari-Language Media Report: Afghan Taliban Grant Quasi-Autonomous Regions To Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) And Other Jihadi Groups To House Families, Resembling Administrative Models In Pakistan In 1980s
The Afghan Taliban have secretly transferred dozens of families of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters from the Gelan camp in the Khost province and the border areas of Paktika to refugee camps in Ghazni, according to a Dari-language media report.
Afghan Taliban Police Letter Warns That Fatemiyoun Brigade And National Resistance Front (NRF) Fighters Are Planning Anti-Taliban Attacks In Afghanistan
On February 13, 2025, an Afghan journalist published an official Dari-language letter from the Afghan Taliban's Jawzjan police headquarters telling the Taliban Interior Ministry and other government organs that insurgents intend to launch attacks in Afghanistan.
Media Report Examines Afghan Taliban Leader Mullah Hibbatullah's Appointments Of Loyal Aides: 'Of Late High And Mid-Level Officials Are Changing Very Quickly Based On The Supreme Leader's Decrees; Some Of Them Have Been Fired'
In a recent report, a Pakistani media outlet examined a series of new appointments made by Afghan Taliban's supreme leader.
Online Media Outlet 'Tajik Watch' Accuses Afghan Taliban Of 'Policy Of Ethnic Cleansing' Against Tajiks In Afghanistan's Northern Provinces: 'If [Pashtun] Taliban Cannot Provide Security For The Tajiks, They Must Leave Tajik Lands So That The Tajiks Can Take Their Own Security Measures'
An online media outlet accused the Afghan Taliban in a Dari-language statement for ethnically cleansing Tajik Afghans and called upon international human rights groups to bring the Taliban officials to justice.
Afghan Taliban Inaugurate 'Jihadi Museum, Archive, And Library' In Kabul, To Be Administered By The 'Directorate For The Protection Of Jihadi Values'
On February 16, 2025, the Afghan Taliban opened a jihadi museum, archive, and library in Kabul to showcase jihadi values and historical records of jihad against the U.S. and NATO forces, as well as exhibits from the earlier jihadi wars against Great Britain and the erstwhile USSR, according to reports by Taliban-run media outlets.
Article In Taliban Magazine: Gaza Ceasefire Victory For Muslims And Failure For Israel, Proves Jihad Only Way To Defeat Enemies
Issue 230 of an Arabic-language magazine, published on February 11, 2025 by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (the Afghan Taliban), contains a four-page article titled "The Sons of Zion Failed and Lost!" by Muhammad Ishaq Al-Salehi.
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At Anti-Israel Protests In Pakistan, Islamic Religious Scholars Call For Jihad Against Israel, Urge Rulers Of Islamic Nations To Use Their Armies To Help Palestinians
In April and May 2025, Pakistan's Islamic religious organizations, especially Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan (JeIP) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), held a series of conferences and mass rallies in several Pakistani towns and cities where Islamic scholars and community leaders expressed support for Hamas and called for jihad against Israel. A national Palestine conference was held on April 10 in Islamabad, while protests and events were also held at Rawalakot and Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir as well as in the cities of Karachi, Hyderabad, and Quetta, among others. At these events, the religious scholars called for supporting Palestinians and Kashmiris. Islamic scholars address the National Palestine Conference in Islamabad on April 10, 2025 On April 10, a national Palestine conference was held in Islamabad to express solidarity with the Palestinians, where Hamas representative Dr. Naji Zaheer, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, President of the Wafaqul Madaris Al-Arabiya Mufti Taqi Usmani, prominent Islamic scholar Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman, and other eminent personalities delivered speeches.[1] According to a report in the Urdu daily Roznama Express: "In the declaration adopted by the national conference, Muslims were called upon to boycott Israel and its supporting countries… According to shari'a, under the principle of 'Al-Aqrab Fal-Aqrab [i.e., jihad becoming obligatory on those on and near the crisis site and its scope expanding gradually to cover wider regions],' jihad has become obligatory on all Muslims."[2] The declaration stated: "Regarding Palestine, no pact prevents participation in this jihad [against Israel]. In the name of Palestine, no armed-struggle against our own governments will be legitimate. The entire region, including Israel, belongs to Palestinians."[3] At the conference, Mufti Muneeb-ur-Rehman, the head of Tanzeem Al-Madaris, read out the declaration adopted on the occasion. Dr. Naji Zaheer, the Hamas representative, who was a star speaker at the conference, said: "Palestinians have great hopes from Pakistan. Israel is afraid of Pakistan, otherwise it wants to complete the project of Greater Israel."[4] Maulana Fazlur Rehman, whose organization Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) has led many anti-Israel pretests in Pakistani towns over the past few years, told the gathering: "If Pakistan does not fight for the Palestinians, it is denying its ideology. The [so-called] philosophers of our country ask how the economy will function if relations with Israel are not improved. What is there to fear? Pakistan's position on Israel should be clear. We also want to know the position of the state of Pakistan."[5] Hamas representative Dr. Zuhair Naji, who lives in Pakistan, addresses the conference Calling the gathering "historic" and urging practical jihad, Maulana Fazlur Rehman promoted a hardline approach, inciting violence rather than fostering a peaceful resolution of the Palestinian issue. "Today's gathering is not a traditional gathering; history will not be able to ignore this gathering. The entire nation is united on the issue of Palestine. Practical jihad has become obligatory on the Ummah. Muslims should participate in jihad in any way possible," he added.[6] The JUI-F leader said: "In 1917, when the State of Israel was proposed, only two percent of Jews lived in Palestine. Correct history and do not spread the lie that Palestinian Muslims sold their lands themselves. There is a Jewish conspiracy behind any problem in Pakistan. In these circumstances, the purpose of the establishment of Pakistan should be understood."[7] The state of Pakistan was established as a homeland for Muslims; Maulana Fazlur Rehman's message was that the nuclear-armed Pakistan must support Palestinians practically. One of the leading speakers at the conference was Grand Mufti of Pakistan Taqi Usmani. The religious scholar questioned Muslim governments for not using their armies for jihad, saying: "Peaceful protests are allowed, throwing stones and harming someone's life and property is forbidden. Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israeli bombing continues. The Zionists do not have any faith, any religion, any international agreement or promise. What is the use of the armies of Muslim countries if they do not wage jihad?"[8] "The requirement was that instead of gathering here [in Islamabad], we would have gathered in Gaza. A ceasefire agreement was reached in Palestine; despite the ceasefire agreement, the bombing continues. Israel has no moral values nor the value of international laws. [U.S. President Donald] Trump has now started considering the entire world his property. Despite seeing death, the Palestinians have not backed down from their position," Mufti Usmani said.[9] Mufti Taqi Usmani (left) and JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman address the National Conference on Palestine on April 10, 2025. The Grand Mufti accused Israel of implementing a plan for Greater Israel, saying: "Today, preparations are being made to implement the Greater Israel plan. According to the United Nations, no one has human rights except those with fair skin. The [Hamas] brave-hearts in Gaza have created a new history. Will jihad not be obligatory even after seeing more than 55,000 Muslims being slaughtered?"[10] Mufti Taqi Usmani added: "The founder of Pakistan [M.A. Jinnah] had called [Israel] an illegitimate child. Our position will not change under any circumstances, no matter how much power Israel gets. When we do not have any pact with Israel, there is no excuse [for Jihad]. Muslim countries should know that when it has broken agreements, then by what agreement are you bound?"[11] The Islamic religious scholar also said: "The U.S. Secretary of State has said that no matter how many Muslims Israel kills, we will not stop supporting it. After Israel, America has also broken its agreements. We do not say to launch a nuclear attack on anyone. Governments have a thousand ways; they should realize that jihad is our duty."[12] Earlier, on February 5, to mark the Kashmir Solidarity Day, several events were held in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir by militant groups and the Pakistani military and government. These events were also attended and addressed by jihadi commanders and Hamas leaders. One of the biggest events was held in the town of Rawalakot in Pakistani Kashmir. Hamas spokespersons Dr. Khalid Qaddoumi and Dr. Naji Zaheer, along with Hamas leaders Mufti Azam and Bilal Alsallat, participated in the event, according to an Indian media report.[13] The event was also attended by Talha Saif, brother of Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) emir Maulana Masood Azhar, JeM commander Asghar Khan Kashmiri, senior Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander Masood Ilyas, and other top LeT commanders. Jihadi leaders address a rally in Rawalakot, Pakistani Kashmir, on February 5, 2025. "The entire event was an effort to build a narrative to equate the Gaza Strip with Jammu and Kashmir," Indian media outlet News 18 reported.[14] "The conference had been organised to spin a common tale of Pakistan and Palestine as well-knit united fronts against Israel and India," the report said.[15] In a video of the Rawalakot event available on the internet, several militant leaders can be seen delivering speeches.[16] One militant leader, speaking Urdu, warns India: "I want to tell [Indian Home Minister] Amit Shah that the mujahideen of Kashmir and Palestine have become united…"[17] Not far from Rawalakot, on the same day in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistani Kashmir, Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended another conference to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day. Speaking on the occasion, General Asim Munir warned India, saying: "Today, tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, or in the near future, you may commit atrocities in occupied Kashmir, but this will not go on forever. The decision of Kashmir must be made by the people of Kashmir, not by any occupying force in Kashmir. Three wars have been fought for Kashmir, and if ten more need to be fought, we will fight, Allah willing."[18] He made these remarks at the at the martyrs' memorial in Muzaffarabad. In his speech to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed support for Kashmiris, saying: "Pakistan will continue to offer its unwavering moral, diplomatic, and political support to the Kashmiri people till the realization of their right to self-determination."[19] Pakistan Army Chief Gen. Asim Munir (third from left) attends an event in Muzaffarabad on February 5, 2025, held as part of the Kashmir Solidarity Day commemorations On April 13, just three days later, another public rally on the theme of "Solidarity with Gaza" was organized by JeIP on Shahrah-e-Faisal Road in Karachi. Addressing the protestors, Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) Emir Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman said: "Israel is committing genocide of Palestinians in Gaza, while Pakistan's political leadership and the international community remain silent. PML-N, PPP, and PTI must also raise their voices for Gaza and condemn the U.S. and Israel."[20] PML-N refers to Pakistan Muslim League (N) Party of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while PPP stands for Pakistan's People Party led by Bilawal Bhutto, son of President Asif Zardari, and PTI for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman further said: "[Israel] has shredded the United Nations charter. Even today, Israel cannot face Hamas. The brutality in Gaza has exposed the true face of Western leaders. Even in the U.S., 50 percent of people support Palestine. Every child around the world is expressing solidarity with the people of Gaza. All political parties should condemn Israel."[21] The JeI leader reminded the protestors that Pakistan's first Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan was asked to recognize Israel, but he replied: "Our foundation is not for sale" – referring to the religious foundation of the newly created Islamic state of Pakistan.[22] JeI, which is the largest religious organization in Pakistan, also held a nationwide shutter-down strike, in which shops and other businesses close to halt commercial activity as a form of protest, on April 27 to signal popular consensus and pressure the government into adopting a firmer anti-Israel stance.[23] Business centers remained closed in most cities including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Quetta. Lawyers in various cities also observed a complete strike and boycotted court proceedings. Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman, addressed a press conference at the Jamaat headquarters Mansoorah in Lahore, where he declared the nationwide shutter-down strike as successful, stating that the success of the strike was a proof that the entire Pakistani nation stands against Israel and India.[24] The strike was held just five days after the April 22 jihadi terror attack at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in which more than two dozen Hindu males were shot dead.[25] JeI emir Hafiz Naeem-ur-Rehman raises slogans during the Gaza Million March on April 20, held to express solidarity with Palestinians As part of the April 27 nationwide strike, local JeI leaders in the city of Hyderabad, Pakistan's Sindh province, held a Press Conference in front of the Hyderabad Press Club. On this occasion, Hafiz Tahir Majeed, the Emir of JeI for Hyderabad district, and other JeI leader Aqeel Ahmad Khan, Abdu Quayyum Sheikh, Muhammad Hanif Sheikh, Abdul Basit Khan, and Hafiz Sufiyan Nasir were present. According to a report in the Urdu daily Roznama Jasarat, Hafiz Tahir Majeed said: "Today's strike was a referendum that has told the entire world that we are standing shoulder to shoulder with Palestine. I salute the citizens of Hyderabad, whose hearts beat with the Muslims of Gaza."[26] "America, Israel, and India play the role of security guards – they have destroyed the peace and order of the entire world," he said, adding: "With America's support, Israel is planning to destroy Gaza. The fate of America, Israel, and India is bringing them toward Pakistan."[27] Hafiz Tahir Majeed slammed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for terminating the Indus Water Treaty. "If India shows an eye to Pakistan, we have the capability to gouge out both its eyes. We will wipe India from the map. Tomorrow we have to take back Delhi, which belonged to Muslims. Insha'Allah, very soon Pakistan's flag will unfurl over Delhi."[28] The JeI leader said: "The world will see that India, Israel, and America will not find two metres of land on earth. After Pharaoh, they are the people who will be most ashamed in the world."[29] Hafiz Tahir Majeed also accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians, adding: "On the issue of Gaza, the entire Pakistani nation stands in unison… If Islamic countries do not make joint efforts regarding a ceasefire, the situation will not be in anybody's control."[30] JeI leaders in Hyderabad city talk to the media on April 27 In Lahore, on April 13, Pakistan's leading religious scholar Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi, chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, addressed a Press Conference where he called for the boycott of Israeli products. "We must boycott Israeli products. We want a free Palestinian state. The elders of the entire Muslim world should be gathered in Mecca [to formulate a joint response on Israel]," he said and also expressed support for an independent Kashmir.[31] Calling for "practical steps" for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, Hafiz Tahir Ashrafi said: "The army, government, and people of Pakistan stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Palestine. Palestine and Gaza are ours – they were and will remain so… Our hearts are with the people of Palestine. May Allah grant freedom to the people of Palestine and Kashmir."[32] He added: "Palestine belongs to the people of Palestine, and no conspiracy to expel the people of Gaza from their land can be accepted. The government and various organizations are sending aid for the people of Palestine. We have remained peaceful in our protest demonstrations. At this time, there is a need to unite the Muslim Ummah, and we appeal to all Muslims to pray."[33] One of the largest anti-Israel protests was organized by JUI-F on May 15 in Quetta, the capital of Baluchistan. Addressing the protestors, JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman said: "The alliance between India and Israel is part of history. The Modi government, acting as an Israeli representative, carried out attacks in Pakistan but we took revenge for Gaza by giving a befitting reply."[34] It should be noted that in response to the April 22 terror attack in Kashmir, India launched strikes at nine terror centres in Pakistan on May 7, leading to a four-day war with Pakistan.[35] "Israel has been Pakistan's enemy from Day One," Maulana Fazlur Rehman said, adding: "The rulers of Israel were busy in a rabbit's dream but we opposed Israel from Day One and will continue to do so in future, while Jews and Hindus are one…"[36] He added: "Pakistan should be cautious of the India-Israel axis. If Muslim rulers gather courage, then Israel's power can be eliminated."[37] * Mantasha Ansari is a Research Assistant at MEMRI's South Asia Studies Project.