Thu May 01 07:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan Army Chief’s Inflammatory Speech Blamed for Kashmir Attack

**Srinagar, India** – A deadly attack in Pulwama, Kashmir, which killed 26 tourists, is being linked to a recent inflammatory speech by Pakistan’s army chief, General Asim Munir. Five days after Munir delivered a provocative address at the Overseas Pakistani Convention in Islamabad on April 17th, militants opened fire on tourists in the Beisaran area of Pulwama.

Munir, currently wanted in both India and Pakistan, is facing mounting criticism within his own country. News channels and newspapers are reporting widespread condemnation, with many blaming his rhetoric and alleged support for militant groups for pushing Pakistan to the brink of collapse. Reports suggest he is currently in hiding.

The controversial speech saw Munir forcefully reiterate the “Two-Nation Theory,” emphasizing the differences between Hindus and Muslims as the foundation of Pakistan’s creation. He urged Pakistanis to teach their children about this historical narrative.

Munir’s background is also under scrutiny. Born to a school teacher and Imam, Syed Sarwar Munir, his family migrated from Jalandhar, Punjab, India, during the 1947 partition, eventually settling in Rawalpindi. He frequently uses Islamic references in his speeches, promoting a strong Islamic ideology.

Munir’s career, which began under General Zia-ul-Haq in 1986, has included a controversial stint as ISI chief, a position he was removed from by then-Prime Minister Imran Khan after only eight months. His return to power as army chief followed Imran Khan’s ousting. He has a history of making inflammatory statements about Kashmir, often employing provocative language and terms like “jihad,” which experts believe provides tacit support to terrorism.

Security analysts believe the Pakistani army and ISI have long provided support to militant groups. Munir’s divisive rhetoric against India and Hindus is seen as a “go-ahead” signal to these groups, potentially contributing to the Pulwama attack. The incident raises serious questions about the army’s role in regional instability and the potential consequences of such inflammatory speech.

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