Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has strongly asserted that Pakistanis take immense pride in their religion, culture, and traditions, vowing to prevent any attempt by extremist groups, such as the Khawarij, from imposing their outdated ideology on the country.
Speaking to university students from Pakistan, the army chief emphasized the deep bond shared between the Pakistan Army and the nation, especially the youth. He highlighted that efforts by anti-state elements to create divisions between the army and the people have failed and will continue to do so.
“As long as the nation, particularly the youth, stands with us, the Pakistan Army will never be defeated. We fight together as comrades, and Pakistani identity is paramount,” General Munir stated.
Further addressing the issue of extremism, the army chief questioned the ideology of the Khawarij, emphasizing that Pakistanis would not allow their distorted interpretation of religion to take root in the country. “Which Shariah and religion do these Khawarij talk about?” he asked, underscoring that the nation’s commitment to its religious values and cultural heritage remains unwavering.
General Munir also commended the resilience of the people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, who, he said, stand as an “iron wall” against terrorism. The army continues its daily battle against the Khawarij, he affirmed, rejecting their misinterpretation of Islam. “Islam was the first religion to honor women and elevate their status—as a mother, wife, or sister, Islam has always treated women with respect,” he said.
The army chief questioned the authority of the Khawarij, stating that no one can strip away the dignity and rights of women, and Pakistan will not allow such misguided groups to impose their values on the country. “We will not permit these extremist elements to hijack the true teachings of Islam,” he added.
