Islamabad — As Israel’s military campaign in Gaza faces growing condemnation across the Muslim world, Pakistan’s top religious scholars have issued powerful fatwas (religious edicts) denouncing the war as genocide and calling upon the Muslim Ummah to respond. Despite this strong religious outcry, no substantial action has been taken by Pakistan’s government or military establishment, leading to rising frustration among citizens and religious circles alike.
Scholars Declare Gaza a Moral and Religious Emergency
Leading ulema (Islamic scholars) from various sects in Pakistan held joint press conferences and religious gatherings in recent months, declaring the bombardment of Gaza a war against humanity and Islam. The fatwas described the killing of civilians, including children, women, and the elderly, as “Zulm” (oppression) and called on the Muslim world to unite in defense of Palestinian lives.
The religious edicts urged:
- Boycotts of Israeli and complicit Western brands
- Financial and humanitarian support to Palestinians
- And even calls for Muslim countries to consider military and political pressure against Israel
However, these statements have not translated into action from Pakistan’s state institutions.
No Movement from Army or Ruling Party
Despite the strong religious and public sentiment, Pakistan’s military leadership has not issued any statement beyond ceremonial expressions of solidarity. There have been no signals of strategic moves, defense collaboration with other Muslim countries, or even proposals for symbolic steps such as nationwide government-led boycotts.
The ruling political coalition, while vocal at international forums like the United Nations and the OIC, has stopped short of initiating any concrete domestic or regional initiative beyond diplomatic condemnations. No parliamentary resolutions, sanctions, or state-backed humanitarian aid convoys have emerged since the latest escalation of violence in Gaza.
Growing Frustration on the Streets
In cities across Pakistan — from Islamabad to Karachi and Lahore — thousands have joined rallies in support of Gaza, chanting slogans of solidarity with Palestinians and calling out the inaction of Muslim rulers. Social media has become a battleground for criticism, with hashtags like #FatwaWithoutAction, #FreePalestine, and #WhereIsTheUmmahtrending in recent weeks.
Many citizens are questioning why, despite strong religious decrees and public support, Pakistan’s government has failed to move beyond statements.
“If our scholars have declared this a war against Islam, then why is the state silent? Why aren’t our rulers doing more?” asked a protestor at a recent Gaza solidarity march in Lahore.
A Familiar Pattern
Analysts say Pakistan’s approach reflects a familiar pattern: strong emotional and moral positions publicly, but practical inaction politically and militarily, due to geopolitical constraints.
Pakistan has no diplomatic relations with Israel and has long been a vocal supporter of Palestinian statehood. But its fragile economy, reliance on global financial institutions, and need to maintain ties with both Western and Middle Eastern powers limit its maneuvering room.
