Pakistan military faces backlash from Islamist groups over shifting alliances

A report on Friday highlighted the growing conflict between Pakistan’s military and the radical Islamist groups it once supported. The report pointed out the contradictions within Pakistan’s strategy, with military leaders promoting moderation abroad while using religious nationalism to suppress democratic opposition at home.

Protests by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) and other Islamist groups have exposed deep divisions in the country. The protests, which erupted in late September and early October, were sparked by Islamabad’s alleged support for Western-backed negotiations on the Israel-Gaza peace process. Thousands of TLP supporters clashed with police in major cities, accusing the military of compromising Islam for financial gain. The protests turned violent, with reports of casualties and injuries.

The military, which once used Islamist movements to control the political landscape, now faces unrest as these groups challenge its policies. The report warned that Pakistan’s increasing repression and efforts to align with the West could worsen internal divisions and destabilize the country.