Pakistan army’s assertion that Jaish-e-Muhammed does not exist in the country is further proof of its ability to speak with a forked tongue. It contradicts recent statements emanating from Pakistan like its foreign minister’s admission that Masood Azhar was in the country and that he was unwell. It also raises doubts about Pak claims of detaining Azhar’s brother and son in a “terror crackdown”.
If Jaish does not exist in Pakistan the army should explain why Azhar’s kin have been taken into preventive custody. An audio clip purportedly by Azhar has also surfaced warning Pak authorities to “fear God”. The international community would do well to take note of Pakistan’s dissembling stances.
It harbours a terrorist wanted in India and then uses China to prevent Azhar from being sanctioned by the United Nations Security Council. Azhar’s organisation JeM might be proscribed but the clout it enjoys is evident from the Pakistan army coming to its defence with a blatant lie.
All this points to impunity and reflects the failure of world nations to call Pakistan’s bluff on its patronage for terror groups. Those eager to commit funds to Pakistan’s developmental needs must pause to consider where their money is going.
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