Hafiz Abdul Rauf, a US-designated global terrorist and commander of the banned terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has been observed leading funeral prayers for individuals believed to have been killed during recent military strikes by Indian forces in Pakistan. This incident reportedly took place on May 6 in Muridke, where Rauf was accompanied by uniformed personnel from the Pakistan Army and members of Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD), another group linked to Hafiz Saeed.
The funeral was held for three individuals, Qari Abdul Malik, Khalid, and Mudassir, who were described as prayer leaders and caretakers of the mosque that was destroyed in the Indian strikes. The spokesperson for the Pakistan Markazi Muslim League claimed that these individuals were collateral victims of India’s military actions. According to Tabish Qayyum, the spokesperson, “India, which attacked Pakistan, will receive a response in broad daylight,” highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two countries.
The Indian armed forces conducted these strikes as a response to a previous terror attack in Pahalgam, targeting nine terror camps in a swift operation executed in approximately 25 minutes. The military utilized artillery and drones to ensure that the strikes were precise and aimed to avoid civilian casualties.
This ongoing conflict raises significant concerns for regional security, showcasing the complex dynamics involving state-sponsored groups and escalating military responses. It underscores the urgency for dialogue and diplomatic solutions to prevent further violence and loss of life.
Situations like these serve as reminders of the critical need for sustained efforts toward peace and strategic measures to address the root causes of extremism in the region.