Religion is potent when it comes to manipulating people, especially in the post-truth scenario, as it acts more instrumentally when sensationalism and rhetoric overshadow objective reality. Terrorism studies depict that it is always a religion that deviates and paralyzes the rationale of the people in the best interest of the beneficiaries. The fourth wave of terrorism is regarded neo-jihadist wave, whose aim is to topple the existing nation-state system and reestablish the new global order based on divine Shariah law.

Pakistan, the South Asian nation, is among the few that suffered from this radical version of Islam and lost 83,000 lives in the war against terror. The terror group called Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is the organization that allegedly targeted civilians, mosques, and military personnel while still portraying themselves as a true custodian of divine law. In the 21st century, religion is not more a source of knowledge for elites, but it serves as an authority to keep people submissive.

TTP’s chief Noor Wali Mehsud came up with the shocking statement that it is acceptable to seek help from non-Muslims against the Pakistani state. He tried to justify this by declaring the state and its institutions as no longer Islamic, and therefore, according to him, fighting them, even with the support of outsiders, is allowed. It is mere rhetoric and a new distorted version; the statement also contradicts the fundamental version of Islam. This statement revealed that they were not fighting for divine purpose but for a political cause supported by the archrivals of Pakistan.

Noor Wali is a violent extremist leader who uses Islamic teachings to justify his violent agenda, undermining the unity and brotherhood Islam commands. His group receives foreign intelligence support to destabilize Pakistan by exploiting religion for political gain. Wali betrays the sacred trust of Islam, falsely claiming the religious authority to label fellow Muslims as enemies and seek help from non-Muslims.

Respected Islamic scholars condemn Wali's extremist views, arguing that true Islam promotes unity, peace, and respect among believers. Authorizing cooperation with non-Muslims against Muslims violates the Prophet Muhammad's teaching that Muslims are brothers who must not harm one another. Opposing Wali's Khawarij-style extremism is essential for the future and strength of the Muslim community, as Islam teaches mercy, justice, and brotherhood.

Noor Wali Mehsud's statement contradicts the Qur'an and Sunnah and reveals that Israel and India are on one side in the war-like situation between India and Pakistan. The Muslim Ummah supports the Muslims of Pakistan, while Israel and India stand on one side. Mehsud's statement validates Pakistan's position that foreign Khawarij terrorists in Afghanistan are tools of disbelief and are working to destabilize Pakistan. The world has presented evidence of India's support for these foreign terrorists. Mehsud's declaration of support for India and Israel against the 250 million Muslims of Pakistan also demonstrates that the TTP stands as a third ally of Israel and India. The Holy Qur'an states that whoever kills a believer without legal or Islamic justification will reside in Hell forever. The blood of innocent Muslims has exposed the truth, and Noor Wali Mehsud's statement is a clear violation of these commands.

The Interim Afghan Government (IAG) Commander, Saeedullah Saeed, has strongly criticized Khawarij leader Noor Wali Mehsud for his cooperation with non-Muslims, which is not allowed in Islam. He claims it is permissible by Shariah law and is often necessary to protect Muslims. However, Islamic scholars argue that such political alliances are against Shariah and that Noor Wali uses Islam to justify his terrorist activities. They also argue that the TTP seeks political gains, not religious ones, and that those who break the Amir-ul-Momineen's rules are considered rebels. They argue that TTP discredits true Islamic rule, advances other nations' interests, and spreads global fear of Islam due to its association with terror and religion.

Terrorist attacks by the TTP have escalated in Pakistan, with 444 attacks in 2024 resulting in the deaths of 685 soldiers and 1,612 more. Originally a group fighting the Pakistani government, the TTP now seeks to align with India, contradicting its beliefs. Religious rhetoric influences public perception, leading to false reports. Addressing the TTP in Pakistan is challenging due to its safe areas in Afghanistan. Cooperation on counterterrorism, regional partnerships, and preventing radicalization is crucial for achieving stability.

Abdul Mussawer Safi holds a degree from the National Defence University (NDU) in Islamabad. He has worked with think tanks like the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) in Islamabad, the Pak-Afghan Youth Forum (PAYF), and the South Asia Times (SAT). He can be reached by email at mussawersafi1999@gmail.com or on Twitter at @MussawerSafi.