Statement at Rawalpindi Conference
Maulana Fazlur Rehman, head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Fazl), has claimed that Pakistan possesses the capability to “wrap up Israel within hours” if provoked. He made the remarks while addressing a large gathering at Liaquat Bagh in Rawalpindi during a conference titled “Protection of Khatm-e-Nabuwwat and Defence of Pakistan.”
The veteran politician delivered a strongly worded speech, focusing on recent Israeli military actions and what he described as an assault on the sovereignty of several Muslim countries. His comments drew applause from the audience, many of whom chanted slogans in support of Palestine.
Condemnation of Israeli Actions
Fazlur Rehman condemned Israel’s reported strikes on Qatar and the ongoing violence against Palestinians. He argued that Pakistan had previously demonstrated resilience in conflicts with India, particularly highlighting swift military responses in past confrontations. According to him, the same resolve could be applied against Israel if circumstances demanded.
He alleged that Israeli assaults had already resulted in the deaths of 70,000 Palestinians, framing the figure as evidence of what he called “barbaric aggression.” He further claimed that Israeli actions in Doha, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen should be seen as direct attacks on the sovereignty of those states.
Solidarity with Palestinians and Qatar
The JUI-F chief expressed solidarity with the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, as well as with the Qatari leadership. He suggested that the Muslim world was facing simultaneous challenges on multiple fronts, which required unity rather than division.
Fazlur Rehman also welcomed Pakistan’s Prime Minister’s recent emergency visit to Doha, describing it as an important diplomatic gesture of support for Qatar. He argued that such steps strengthen bonds among Muslim nations and send a message of collective resistance.
Call for National Unity
During his address, the politician urged the Pakistani nation to send a clear and united message against what he termed Israeli “brutality.” He encouraged citizens to demonstrate solidarity with Palestinians through public expression, humanitarian assistance, and political pressure.
At the same time, he reminded the audience that Pakistan was grappling with its own internal crises. The recent floods had left tens of thousands homeless and caused massive damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods. He emphasized that helping displaced and vulnerable citizens was a moral responsibility equal to supporting Palestinians.
Context of Pakistan–Israel Relations
Pakistan does not recognize Israel and has no diplomatic ties with Tel Aviv. Successive governments in Islamabad have maintained a consistent position in support of the Palestinian cause, often framing it as an issue of Muslim solidarity and justice.
Although Pakistan has one of the largest standing armies in the Muslim world and possesses nuclear capabilities, officials rarely make direct threats of confrontation with Israel. Fazlur Rehman’s comments, therefore, highlight both his political rhetoric and his attempt to connect international issues with domestic sentiment.
According to the United Nations, more than 33,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023 in Gaza amid ongoing conflict, while hundreds of thousands remain displaced. Human rights organizations continue to warn of worsening humanitarian conditions. Fazlur Rehman’s higher casualty figure reflects political messaging rather than official international estimates.
Balancing External and Internal Priorities
In conclusion, the JUI-F leader sought to balance external solidarity with practical internal needs. By linking Palestinian suffering with the plight of Pakistani flood victims, he attempted to broaden his message beyond foreign policy and towards national unity.
He called on Pakistanis to resist what he described as global injustices against Muslims while also addressing the suffering within their own borders.
