‘Hostile Narratives Can’t Defeat Pakistan Armed Forces’ Commitment to Sovereignty and Islam’

In recent days, a growing campaign on social media has sought to tarnish the image of Pakistan’s Armed Forces, branding them with derogatory nomenclature by . This narrative, originating from Afghan accounts and propagated by elements associated with Baloch separatist groups, the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and even some Afghan actors, seeks to paint Pakistan’s military as a tool of foreign imperialism—specifically serving American interests.

This hostile rhetoric, while gaining traction in certain corners of the internet, is not a new development. It is, in fact, rooted in the early 2000s when Al-Qaeda initiated a similar campaign to undermine Pakistan’s military and political leadership. Now, these same allegations have been co-opted by terrorist organizations and political actors intent on destabilizing Pakistan’s sovereignty.

These narratives aim to depict Pakistan’s military as complicit in carrying out an American agenda, equating it with the Zionist occupation forces of Israel, and positioning Baloch separatist and extremist movements as supposed “resistance groups” akin to the Palestinians. These twisted characterizations seek to blur the line between legitimate resistance movements and groups perpetrating violence, terror, and bloodshed under the false guise of religious ideology.

Pakistan’s Army is the guardian of its sovereignty, fighting against extremism, not for foreign agendas. In reality, Pakistan’s Armed Forces have long been the cornerstone of the nation’s defense, safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring peace in the face of numerous internal and external threats. The Pakistan Army has consistently acted to protect the country from extremist groups like the TTP, who themselves are responsible for heinous acts of violence, including the tragic APS attack that claimed the lives of over 140 children. These terrorists, who falsely exploit Islam to justify their bloodshed, are in direct opposition to the values of compassion, mercy, and peace central to the Quran and Islamic teaching

Furthermore, groups like the Taliban and their allies, who have been critical of Pakistan, have exposed their hypocrisy. While publicly rejecting the US, they continue to rely on foreign financial aid, including a $20 billion lifeline, and shelter terrorist organizations like Al-Qaeda and the TTP. These groups seek international legitimacy while simultaneously serving the cause of extremism, making their claims of resistance and jihad deeply flawed and deceptive.

The proliferated narrative is a deliberate attempt to confuse the public and garner support for groups that only bring destruction, division, and hatred. Takfiri Terror: A deadly war on Islam, using faith as a pretext for violence and division. Pakistan’s Armed Forces, on the other hand, continue to stand firm against extremism, terrorism, and foreign interference, working to ensure a peaceful, prosperous, and sovereign future for all Pakistanis.

It is critical for global donors and the international community to recognize the destructive role played by these terrorist groups, which thrive on violence and propaganda, and to support Pakistan in its ongoing fight against extremism. Global donors should take note of the $20 billion funneling into a regime that shields Al-Qaeda and TTP.