Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir has said that Afghanistan will have to choose between Pakistan and Fitna Al Khawarij.

The Field Marshal said that militant violence originating from Afghanistan continues to claim the lives of innocent Pakistanis, including women and children.

He made these remarks while addressing the National Ulema and Mashaikh Conference in Islamabad on December 10, 2025.

The conference was attended by religious scholars and clerics from all schools of thought across the country.

In a wide-ranging address, the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces spoke about terrorism, national security, Pakistan’s evolving role in the international community, military preparedness, and the importance of knowledge and intellectual thought.

Quoting verses from the Holy Quran and classical poetry, Field Marshal Asim Munir outlined his vision for Pakistan, saying Allah had bestowed upon Pakistan the honour of being the protectors of Haramain Sharifain.

He said there was a deep ideological and historical connection between Riyasat-e-Tayyaba and the State of Pakistan, noting that both were founded on the basis of Kalima during the holy month of Ramadan.

Referring to security operations, the Field Marshal said divine assistance was clearly witnessed during Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos.

On terrorism and religious narratives, he asserted that no individual or group had the authority to declare jihad in any Islamic state, stressing that only the state could issue such directives.

Speaking on the regional situation, he stated that terrorism against Pakistan was being carried out with the backing of the Afghan Taliban.

He claimed that around 70 per cent of militants involved in Fitna Al Khawarij attacks originating from Afghanistan were Afghan nationals.

“In this context, Afghanistan will have to choose between Fitna Al Khawarij and Pakistan,” he said.

In his address, Field Marshal Asim Munir emphasised the importance of knowledge, intellect and the power of the pen, warning that nations which abandon their scholarly and intellectual heritage inevitably decline.

Participants of the conference described the address as highly relevant to the current situation and highlighted the role of religious scholars in promoting peace, stability in the country.