On March 17, a new jihadist group called Harkat Inqilab-e-Islami Pakistan (“Islamic Revolutionary Party” or “IIP”) announced it’s existence in a 7 minute video released through it’s media channel, “Inqilab Islamic Media”. The group also shared links to its official accounts on Telegram and X, although the X account appears to have been suspended for violating the company’s guidelines.
In the video, the group’s leader, Ghazi Shahabuddin, appeared flanked by 13 masked armed militants carrying guns. The video also showed several armed men in combat uniform undergoing training, and the group’s flag was displayed, featuring the Islamic oath (shahada) and the group’s name in black letters on a white background. The flag bears resemblance to those of the Afghan Taliban and the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Although the IIP has not announced any affiliation with other groups, it expressed its willingness to cooperate with jihadist organizations that share its goal of establishing Sharia law in Pakistan. The group’s leader, Ghazi Shahabuddin, identified the Pakistani military as its main target, accusing the army of killing “thousands” of people who attempted to spread the word of Allah in the country.
Shahabuddin also criticized the corruption of Pakistani generals, which he claimed had pushed the country into poverty and damaged its economy. He stated that the group’s aim to establish Sharia law in Pakistan and help “oppressed people”, adding that the Pakistani government has been creating obstacles to prevent the establishment of Sharia in the country.
The IIP leader vowed not to cause any harm to civilians, either physically or financially, and pledged to make all necessary sacrifices to free thousands of Muslims who are currently languishing in Pakistani jails. The group’s announcement marks the emergence of a new jihadist organization in Pakistan, which could potentially pose a significant threat to the country’s security and stability.
Resonant news (Resonantnews.com) has also suggested whispers that this new entity might be connected to al-Qaeda but these assertions remain unverified. Regardless of the group’s affiliation, this announcement will come as an unwelcome blow for Pakistan, who are navigating a complex security situation following a spike in terrorist attacks by both the TTP and Balochistan Liberation Army.