Only the State Can Declare Jihad, Says Field Marshal Asim Munir at Ulema Convention

**Islamabad (Qudrat Daily):** Field Marshal Asim Munir has stated that in an Islamic state, only the state has the authority to declare jihad, emphasizing that no individual or group can issue such a directive independently.

Addressing the Ulema Convention in Islamabad, the Field Marshal said that there is a deep and historic connection between the State of Madinah and the State of Pakistan. He added that Allah has bestowed upon Pakistan the unique honor of being the “guardian of the Holy Sanctuaries” among all Muslim countries, noting that the recent defense agreement with Saudi Arabia holds great historic significance.

He stressed that nations that abandon knowledge and the pen fall prey to division and chaos. “Honor and strength come not through division but through knowledge and hard work. Ulema must keep the nation united and broaden its vision,” he urged.

Speaking on regional security, Asim Munir said terrorism is not Pakistan’s habit but India’s. “We do not strike from the shadows; we confront the enemy openly. In the battle of truth, we succeeded with the help of Allah,” he added.

Reiterating his core message, the Field Marshal made it clear that within an Islamic framework, only the state has the legitimate authority to declare jihad.