Karachi, Pakistan: According to Dawn, in a disturbing escalation of extremist behavior, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a hardline Islamist group, has launched a series of violent attacks on KFC outlets across Karachi. These acts of vandalism and aggression are linked to the group’s vehement opposition to the United States and Israel, a stance that they have weaponized in the name of a supposed Islamic agenda.

TLP’s violent campaign, aimed at multinational corporations such as KFC, reflects a disturbing trend of rising extremism in Pakistan. The group’s use of force and intimidation in the name of religion has sparked widespread condemnation, including from LEAD Ministries Pakistan, a leading Christian organization dedicated to promoting peace, tolerance, and the protection of religious freedoms.

“We strongly condemn the extremist and violent actions of TLP, which are completely contrary to the principles of peace, respect, and coexistence that we should stand for,” said a spokesperson for LEAD Ministries Pakistan. “The attacks on innocent businesses in Karachi are a clear example of how religious extremism is being weaponized for political and ideological purposes, undermining the peaceful fabric of society.”

LEAD Ministries Pakistan, known for its long-standing advocacy for the rights and protection of religious minorities, condemned the misuse of religion to justify violence. The organization has been vocal in its opposition to the growing trend of extremism, which often targets vulnerable communities and religious minorities in Pakistan.

“TLP’s tactics represent a grave injustice to the spirit of peace and tolerance. These actions harm not just businesses, but the broader social fabric of Pakistan. It is vital for the government and the people to reject such violence and instead promote dialogue, mutual understanding, and respect for all citizens, regardless of their faith,” the spokesperson continued.

Furthermore, LEAD Ministries Pakistan emphasized the need to address the broader issue of extremism and the misuse of blasphemy laws in the country. These laws, often weaponized against religious minorities, have long been a source of concern for human rights advocates, who argue that they are frequently used to target and harass religious minority communities, particularly Christians and Hindus in Pakistan.

“We cannot ignore the weaponization of the blasphemy laws and the escalating violence in Pakistan. As a country, we must urgently work to protect the rights of all citizens and ensure that no one is persecuted for their faith. The Pakistani government must take stronger action to prevent extremist groups like TLP from further inciting violence,” LEAD Ministries stated.

The organization also underscored the importance of international cooperation and peaceful resolutions to global conflicts, including the need for a balanced and constructive approach to issues that stir public sentiments, particularly against Christians in Pakistan. The TLP and other Islamist groups often perceive the United States as a “Christian country,” which fuels their animosity toward Christians in Pakistan. These groups exploit this perception to justify violence against Christians, viewing them as targets due to their association with the West.

However, LEAD Ministries reaffirmed that violence, especially in the form of intimidation and vandalism, cannot and should not be justified under any circumstances.

“Religious extremism is a destructive force that destabilizes societies and harms innocent lives. We urge Pakistan to resist the rise of such groups and focus on building a more peaceful, tolerant, and just nation,” said the LEAD spokesperson. “Pakistan must reject all forms of extremism and work toward a society where every citizen, regardless of their faith, can live in safety and peace.”

As the situation unfolds, the eyes of both domestic and international communities are on Pakistan, where the rising tide of extremism poses a significant challenge to peace and stability. LEAD Ministries Pakistan continues to advocate for a peaceful society built on mutual respect, tolerance, and understanding