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LAHORE, May 11 (APP): Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman Hafiz Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi has extended heartfelt congratulations to Pakistan’s civil and military leadership for their recent successful and united response to hostile provocations.
Talking to the media at Jamia Manzoor-ul-Islamia, here on Sunday, he paid glowing tribute to the armed forces of Pakistan and military and civil leadership for their unwavering commitment to the country’s security, stability, and sovereignty. “Above all, we thank Allah Almighty whose blessings enabled this historic success,” he said.
Ashrafi praised the unity of the Pakistani nation, emphasizing that the collective resolve of the people delivered a resounding message to the enemy, one that will be remembered for generations. “Our national defense is firm, and now we must work together to strengthen our internal stability, especially our economy, through unity, trust in Allah, and commitment to national progress. Highlighting the readiness of Pakistan’s religious institutions in times of national need, Ashrafi noted, “Over 3 million students of madaris, along with imams and khateebs across the country, stood united behind the call of the nation and its leadership. They remain ready to sacrifice for the defense and stability of Pakistan.”
He also paid tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs, saying their memories must be preserved and honored.
Referring to the Pahalgam incident, Ashrafi reminded the world that Pakistan had called for international investigations at the time, but India avoided transparency. “Today, with the success of Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos, even global powers are speaking on Kashmir. The American President has acknowledged the need to address the Kashmir issue, something India used to reject outright,” he said.
The PUC chairman expressed gratitude to Islamic countries, especially Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Iran, for their diplomatic support. He specifically lauded Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan for being the first foreign dignitary to contact Pakistan after the Pahalgam episode, and noted the efforts of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in initiating diplomatic outreach.
Commenting on India’s recent diplomatic overtures, he added, “When faced with defeat, India was seen seeking help from the U.S., Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. We do not seek war, but any aggression will meet a decisive and befitting response, as witnessed recently.”
Ashrafi reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance against terrorism, saying that Pakistan has always been a victim of terrorism. “We were the first to issue a religious decree against suicide bombings and terrorism from Lahore 25 years ago. We can neither support nor tolerate any form of terrorism.”
He urged the international community to launch impartial investigations into other critical incidents as well, including the Jaffer Express tragedy and the killing of 90,000 Pakistanis as a result of Indian-sponsored terrorism.
Shifting focus to global Muslim solidarity, Ashrafi called on the Ummah not to overlook the continuing suffering in Palestine and Kashmir. “We stand in unwavering support of our Palestinian brothers and pray for their relief,” he said. “As the U.S. President intervenes on Kashmir, we urge him to extend the same concern to the Palestinian cause.”
He expressed hope that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will raise the issues of Kashmir and Palestine during the U.S. President’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia and the Gulf region. “We pray that Allah strengthens our armed forces, fortifies our national defense, and blesses our country with lasting peace and prosperity.”
He conveyed his congratulations and gratitude to the leadership of Pakistan’s armed forces, government institutions, and the people.
Later, Maulana Farooq led a special prayer for the nation’s safety and prosperity.