Noor Wali Mehsud, leader of the banned extremist group, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), has drawn widespread condemnation from religious scholars for his manipulation of Islamic teachings to justify violence and extremism.

In recent statements, scholars argue that Mehsud’s actions directly contradict core Islamic principles of justice, unity, and brotherhood.

His allowance of cooperation with non-Muslims against fellow Muslims is seen as a stark betrayal of these fundamental tenets. Critics draw parallels between Mehsud’s ideology and that of the Khawarij, a historical group known for declaring other Muslims as unbelievers and inciting internal conflict.

The scholars emphasize that Mehsud’s interpretation of Islamic scripture is not supported by any recognized Islamic institution or scholar. He is deemed a self-proclaimed authority, twisting religious texts to serve his extremist agenda. The consensus among religious leaders is clear: Mehsud’s actions are a perversion of Islam, an affront to the faith’s core values of peace, mercy, and unity. His narrative, they argue, is rooted in extremism and actively harms the Muslim ummah. This distortion of religious teachings, they warn, not only threatens social harmony but also weakens Muslim unity.

Mehsud, in a recent video message, explicitly declared that forging alliances and accepting aid from non-Muslim (“kafir”) nations is permissible, even necessary under certain circumstances. This statement, following years of promoting jihad, represents a significant shift in his rhetoric and a blatant disregard for traditional Islamic principles. His justification rests on a selective and distorted interpretation of religious texts, allowing him to rationalize cooperation with those previously considered enemies of Islam.

The contrast between the scholars’ condemnation and Mehsud’s justification highlights the dangerous manipulation of religious belief for political ends. Mehsud’s actions are not only a threat to Pakistan’s internal security but also a profound betrayal of the Islamic faith itself, as understood and practiced by the vast majority of religious scholars and the broader Muslim community.

His attempt to legitimize his actions through religious rhetoric has led to ulema countering such extremist narratives and uphold the true principles of Islam. The unanimous condemnation from religious scholars could serve as a powerful counter-narrative, exposing the fallacy of Mehsud’s claims and reaffirming the peaceful and unifying essence of Islam.