International Union of Muslim Scholars Condemns Pakistan's Attack on Kabul Rehabilitation Center
The International Union of Muslim Scholars, based in Doha, Qatar, has issued a strong condemnation of Pakistan's military authorities for their recent attack on a drug rehabilitation center in Kabul, Afghanistan. The organization has labeled the assault as a prohibited act that violates both fundamental Islamic principles and established international law, according to reports from Tolo News.
Call for Immediate Investigation and Ceasefire
Expressing deep concern over the escalating tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, the influential Islamic body has urgently called upon Islamabad and its military leadership to immediately halt such aggressive actions. The union has demanded the establishment of a transparent and independent commission to thoroughly investigate the incident and accurately assess the casualties resulting from the attack.
Operation Ghazab lil-Haq and Temporary Pause
This condemnation comes against the backdrop of Pakistan's ongoing military campaign known as Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, which was launched on February 26 following what Pakistan described as "unprovoked firing" by the Afghan Taliban across their shared border, as reported by Dawn newspaper.
In a significant development, Pakistan's Information Minister Ataullah Tarar announced on Wednesday that Islamabad has decided on a "temporary pause" in this operation. This decision was made in view of the upcoming Islamic festival of Eid al-Fitr and at the specific request of several brotherly Islamic nations, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the State of Qatar, and the Republic of Turkiye.
Details of the Temporary Ceasefire
Minister Tarar made this announcement through a post on the social media platform X, stating that the pause would be effective from midnight of March 18/19 to midnight of March 23/24. He emphasized that Pakistan was offering this gesture in good faith and in keeping with Islamic norms of peace and brotherhood during religious observances.
However, the minister issued a clear warning: In case of any cross-border attack, drone strike, or terrorist incident inside Pakistan during this period, Operation Ghazab lil-Haq would immediately resume with renewed intensity and determination.
Reciprocal Response from Afghan Taliban
Shortly after Pakistan's announcement, the Afghan Taliban also declared a temporary suspension of their military operations against Pakistan. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid stated that this decision was made in response to requests from the same brotherly Islamic countries that had appealed to Pakistan, including Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Qatar.
Broader Implications and Regional Concerns
The International Union of Muslim Scholars' condemnation highlights the growing international concern about the targeting of civilian facilities, particularly those providing essential services like drug rehabilitation. The attack on the Kabul center represents a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between the two neighboring nations.
The organization's call for an independent investigation underscores the need for accountability and transparency in military operations that affect civilian populations. As both sides observe a temporary ceasefire during Eid al-Fitr, the international community watches closely to see whether this pause might create an opening for diplomatic dialogue or whether hostilities will resume once the religious observance concludes.
