In Issue 30 Of Its Urdu-Language Magazine ‘Taliban,’ Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Rejects Pakistan Army Narratives, Says Pakistan Is World’s Largest Jihadi Front: ‘TTP Is Striving For An Islamic Welfare System In The Country’

In the latest issue of its Urdu-language magazine “Taliban,” Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) eulogizes slain fighters, argues that it is ahead of the Pakistani military in building narratives in the eyes of Pakistani audiences, frames Pakistani military leaders as those who monopolize resources and obstruct the establishment of Islam, and says that the TTP should not be viewed as a terrorist group but as an Islamic jihadi group striving for an Islamic welfare system.

Issue 30, the latest issue of the magazine, which TTP media arm Umar Media publishes, is dated Safar 1446 in the Hijri calendar, which corresponds with the lunar month beginning August 5, 2024. A PDF copy of the magazine was shared on the U.S.-based repository website Archive.org on September 5, 2024.

“The Early Years Of The Afghan Jihad Were Extremely Discouraging For The Mujahideen – However, As Jihadi Formations Heated The Battlefield, Each Year Proved Better Than The Last, And Eventually, Victories Bowed Before The Islamic Emirate”

The magazine has an editorial titled “The Current Situation Is A Clear Message For The People Of Pakistan,” which tells readers that Pakistan was created to become a land where shari’a will be implemented. It draws parallels between the Afghan jihad and the current situation faced by the TTP, suggesting that the TTP is on a similar path to success as the Afghan mujahideen were during the jihad against the Soviets in the 1980s and later against the U.S. and NATO.

“You may have studied Afghan jihad or the history of jihad in the past, showing that when a jihadist group becomes organized and brings positive changes every year or two – improving discipline, principles, regulations, and achieving victories on the battlefield – success is not far off. The early years of the Afghan jihad were extremely discouraging for the mujahideen. However, as jihadi formations heated the battlefield, each year proved better than the last, and eventually, victories bowed before the Islamic Emirate,” the editorial says, reminding its readers about the Afghan Taliban’s victory in August 2021 after 20 years of jihad against U.S.

The editorial urges the people of Pakistan, especially Islamic scholars and religious groups, to support the mujahideen, claiming that an Islamic system based on the principle of La Ilaha Illallah is the country’s true destiny. The Arabic words La Ilaha Illallah (“there is no deity but Allah”) are recited to pronounced one’s faith in Islam.

Reminding readers that Pakistan was founded on the principle of La Ilaha Illallah, but the system of government prevailing is based on deception rather than shari’a, the editorial urges Muslims to join the cause of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and says they might miss the chance to contribute to its eventual success and the establishment of an Islamic system.

“In all of this, the message for the people of Pakistan, especially the scholars and religious groups, is that the mujahideen, the Islamic system, and La Ilaha Illallah are the destiny of this land. The slogan under which this country was created, from Khyber to Karachi, is being raised again. The nation is being reminded that after almost eight decades, even children now know that the system imposed on them was nothing but a mirage,” it says.

“Therefore, it is your duty as well to join this cause in any way possible so that you do not miss the opportunity that, tomorrow, when the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan succeeds, Allah willing, and the Islamic system prevails in the country, you have played your part in it,” it says.

“The [Pakistani] Taliban, Whom You Once Labelled As Indian RAW Agents, Are No Longer The Same”; “If It Is About Competition, You Now Follow The Taliban When Boasting Of Killing Them, Releasing Infographics, And Videos Of Monthly Operations”

An article titled “Where Did The Taliban Come From To Abduct The Colonel?” discusses the current state of the Taliban and their attacks against the security forces in Pakistan, focusing on a recent incident where three Pakistani officials, including a colonel and an assistant commissioner, were abducted by the Taliban in Kulachi area of Dera Ismail Khan in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

“The topic under discussion these days is the abduction of three officials, including a colonel and an assistant commissioner from cantonment [the military camp], from Kulachi, Township of Dera Ismail Khan. This incident clearly highlights the undeniable presence of the Taliban in Pakistan. Yet, the way the Pakistani media reports such events is ludicrous,” it says in reference to reports in Pakistani media that the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan fighters are based in Afghanistan.

“They portray it as though the [Pakistani] Taliban were in Afghanistan and suddenly received news that Colonel Khalid and Assistant Commissioner Asif are attending a Fateha (prayer) in a mosque. Immediately, they readied their horses, embarked on a journey, and before the music and OST even finished, they had crossed hundreds of miles to reach Kulachi in Dera Ismail Khan, abducted three people from amid hundreds at the prayer gathering, and spirited them away to Afghanistan. No sense of shame or decorum,” states the article as it refutes Pakistani officials’ claims that TTP fighters are executing attacks in Pakistan from their hideouts in the bordering Afghanistan.

“The three officials were abducted and transferred to an unknown location. The demands on them – whether for ransom or prisoners – are a separate issue that the authorities would know better about, while others speculate. But what is confirmed is that these men were indeed taken. The first credit goes to the Taliban’s intelligence for their timely knowledge of the officials attending the Fateha. The second credit goes to the operatives who, challenging government writ and authority, entered the area and abducted high-ranking officials, leaving Pakistani intelligence agencies stunned,” it adds.

“The Taliban are no longer what they once were,” the article says and notes that TTP executed around 250 operations in August 2024, marking the highest number of attacks compared to previous months. It further points out that the Pakistani authorities seem to be deflecting blame for their own failure to prevent the attacks onto the Afghan Taliban rulers by accusing them of sheltering the TTP.

It also accuses Pakistani officials of using propaganda tactics such as creating artificial intelligence-generated audio clips to divert public attention from their own failures. “Recently, a voice message surfaced that was attributed to Mufti Abu Mansoor Asim aka Noor Wali Mehsud, the leader of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), in which he allegedly ordered the destruction of schools and hospitals in retaliation for the destruction of their homes,” it says.

“Soon after, a statement from TTP spokesperson Muhammad Khorasani was released, claiming that the audio clip was artificially generated through AI and had no connection to Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud. Whether the clip was genuine or fake is another issue, but the Taliban quickly redirected the narrative, bringing it closer to the truth,” claims the article’s author Naved-ul-Hasan Yusufzai.

The author rejects Pakistani officials’ allegations that TTP fighters are agents of the Indian intelligence agency Research & Analysis Wing (RAW), saying: “The Taliban, whom you once labelled as Indian RAW agents, are no longer the same.” He adds: “You orchestrated the massacre of children in the Army Public School [of Peshawar, December 16, 2014] and pinned the blame on the Taliban. But now, in every field [such as diverting narratives], the Taliban are one step ahead of you, Inshallah [Allah willing].”

“If it is about competition, you now follow the Taliban when boasting of killing them, releasing infographics, and videos of monthly operations [by Pakistani security forces]. In short, the nation must reflect on who truly poses a threat to the country’s integrity. Everything is now crystal clear. There is nothing hidden or unclear that might leave one in doubt. Therefore, think not just a little but thoroughly and make your decision accordingly,” the article says.

“Jihad Is A Profoundly Significant Act Of Worship, And Its Greatness Can Be Understood By Recognizing That A Person May Sacrifice Their Home, Wealth, Relatives, And Even Their Life For It”

In an article titled “Series On The Ethics Of A Mujahid – Bravery – 3,” Sheikh Abu Muhammad Kashmiri, the author, emphasizes the importance of courage as a fundamental quality for a mujahid, who is willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of Islam.

“Jihad is a profoundly significant act of worship, and its greatness can be understood by recognizing that a person may sacrifice their home, wealth, relatives, and even their life for it. A mujahid is always ready to sacrifice everything for the honor of Islam, constantly engaging with danger. Their heart yearns for martyrdom, making it essential for a mujahid to possess exceptional qualities. Without these noble attributes, they cannot prepare themselves for this great purpose,” Sheikh Abu Muhammad Kashmiri writes.

He argues that true courage is essential for engaging in jihad and that the fear of anything other than Allah must be eliminated from one’s heart to maintain a pure belief in Tawheed (“Islamic monotheism”). The author expresses concern over “the current state of cowardice among people and religious scholars” and says cowardice should be recognized as a spiritual ailment to be treated.

“Friends, today cowardice has devastated us. Our people and many Islamic religious scholars have also become cowardly. Instead of embracing courage for the sake of our religion, we are opting for cowardice in the name of prudence and wisdom. As long as we do not recognize cowardice as a spiritual ailment and seek to treat it, we will continue to be humiliated in this world,” he adds.

Baluchistan, the largest province of Pakistan, has been in news recently for large-scale terror attacks both by the Pakistani Taliban and by the secessionist Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA).

One of the key articles, titled “Series In Memory Of The Martyrs – Lion Of Baluchistan (Bilal Shaheed, May Allah Be Pleased With Him) And Saif Al-Seraiki (Usman Shaheed, May Allah Be Pleased With Him),” written by Abu Hamad, honors two individuals from the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan who were martyred in their fight against the Pakistani state: Bilal Shaheed (referred to as the “Lion of Baluchistan”) and Usman Shaheed (the “Sword of Seraiki”). The writer reflects on personal memories of the two martyrs, sharing stories of their bravery, camaraderie, and dedication to the cause of jihad. The Seraiki language is spoken in the southwestern part of Punjab province.

The article emphasizes that their martyrdom inspired others to join TTP, and their legacy will continue to fuel jihad-e-Pakistan. “Yesterday, the enemy laughed because they martyred two of our brothers, and only two police officers were injured. But today, we laugh because these two brothers’ legacy will bring the enemy to the feet of the mujahideen,” the article says.

“Oh Enemies Of Allah! For The Mujahideen, It Is Always A Win – You Martyr Them, And That Is What They Seek; You Lose On The Battlefield, And They Establish Shari’a”

Abu Hamad, the article’s author, claims that the mujahideen come from all regions of Pakistan, not just the Pashtun areas, and insists that the goal of their jihad is the establishment of shari’a across the country. “Oh Mujahid nation of Baluchistan! Your brave son went into the enemy’s ranks and sacrificed his life for the Muslims. He knew that the solution to liberating people from oppression was not only in Baluchistan but in all of Pakistan, for those who desire a life of peace and justice. Bilal gave his life not only for the people of Pakistan, but his many sacrifices in other fields showed his concern for the entire Muslim Ummah,” the writer says, eulogizing Bilal Shaheed.

Emphasizing the significance of martyrdom and jihad, Abu Hamad observes: “Oh enemies of Allah! For the mujahideen, it is always a win. You martyr them, and that is what they seek. You lose on the battlefield, and they establish shari’a. For you, there is always loss. You die in enmity with Allah. If you live, you try to please one master, sometimes other countries, like a dog. In the end, these countries will never be pleased with you until you completely leave Islam.”

“If you get injured on the battlefield, you receive some money but lose your job. What a disgraceful life! From the statements of the families of your military officers and policemen, we have learned that these so-called brave heroes often mistreat their families and suffer from severe psychological stress. The prayers of the oppressed are always accepted by Allah because there is no barrier between them and Allah,” he adds.

One of the articles recounts the story of Qari Shakirullah, a martyr of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), highlighting his dedication to jihad and the sacrifices he made for the cause. The narrative draws a parallel between modern-day mothers, like Qari Shakirullah’s mother, and Hazrat Khansa, a historical figure known for sending her sons to the battlefield in defense of Islam. The author emphasizes the selflessness of these mothers, willing to send their sons to sacrifice themselves for the sake of the Ummah.

“While many great scholars remain silent about jihad in Pakistan, waiting for the winds to change, some have even opposed the mujahideen of Islam. But I bow my head in reverence to such mothers who feel the pain of the Ummah in their hearts and send their sons to the frontlines. After 1,400 years, mothers like Hazrat Khansa (RA) are once again sending their young sons to the battlefields,” the writer, Maulvi Hamza Halimi, says.

“Geographically, Pakistan Currently Occupies A Position On The World Map That Is Undeniably Significant… Pakistan Is Currently The Largest Jihad Front In The World”

One of the major articles titled “Pakistan – The World’s Largest Jihadi Front” discusses Pakistan’s significant geopolitical and military role in the global jihad movement, saying that it is currently the largest jihadist front in the world. “Geographically, Pakistan currently occupies a position on the world map that is undeniably significant. This region is also considered one of the major war fronts globally, and it would not be an exaggeration to say that, in reality, Pakistan is currently the largest jihad front in the world,” the article’s author Dr. Abdullah says.

He outlines how Pakistan’s geographical and military significance has made it a focal point for jihadi movements with a population of approximately “250 million and around 2.2 million security personnel.” The author highlights that since the collapse of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA, i.e., the Afghan Taliban) in 2001, Pakistan has effectively become a colony of the U.S. and U.K., leading to the rise of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as a response to state oppression and military operations against the mujahideen.

“Since 2004, a series of [Pakistani military] operations against the mujahideen and the public in the tribal areas and Baluchistan have led to the establishment of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) under the leadership of its first martyr, Baitullah Mehsud. This caravan continues its journey toward its ultimate goal, writing an everlasting tale of sacrifices and martyrdoms,” the author states. “Not even the significant oppressive and tyrannical operations have diminished this caravan’s resolve. The sacrifices of the mujahideen have resulted in the TTP and jihad in Pakistan standing tall like a robust tree. The hopes and aspirations of Pakistani Muslims and oppressed people now rest upon the TTP, which they believe can deliver them from their troubles,” the author adds.

“After 9/11, When The U.S. And NATO Decided To Invade Afghanistan, Pakistan Announced Its Support For The U.S. Without Any Resistance And Has Since Participated In U.S. Atrocities Over The Course Of Nearly 20 Years”

One of the lead articles titled “Pakistan’s Afghan And Foreign Policy” discusses Pakistan’s foreign policy, arguing that it lacks independence and is primarily shaped by American and global interests due to the personal ties and dual citizenship of its policymakers. When examining Pakistan’s Afghan policy, the article critiques Pakistan’s subservience to U.S. interests, especially after 9/11, when Pakistan supported the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan and profited from military aid.

The article’s author, Abdullah Mujahid, accuses Pakistan of participating in the killings of Afghans by the U.S. and NATO forces. He points out “the hypocrisy of Pakistani leaders” who profess solidarity with Afghan Muslims while undermining the Taliban’s Islamic government in 2001 by siding with the U.S.

“After 9/11, when the U.S. and NATO decided to invade Afghanistan, Pakistan announced its support for the U.S. without any resistance and has since participated in U.S. atrocities over the course of nearly 20 years. It provided military bases, facilitated the passage of military equipment, and provided military and intelligence aid. In return, military generals and policymakers made billions of dollars and transferred their wealth abroad,” he says.

“Pakistan’s policymakers have always maintained a hypocritical policy toward Afghanistan, showing solidarity with Afghan Muslims while actively participating in global conspiracies against them. Despite their opposition, when Allah granted victory to the Afghan Taliban [in August 2021 when the Islamic Emirate returned to power], these policymakers did not refrain from their hypocritical actions and continued their efforts to undermine the Islamic government in Afghanistan, propagating against it,” the article says in reference to Pakistan’s criticism of the Afghan government for its failure to prevent TTP attacks in Pakistan.

“The issue is solely to keep Muslims away from the power of religion [of Islam], to distance them from an Islamic system, and to alienate them from jihad. This is why all this propaganda is being orchestrated. The proud people of Pakistan must understand these conspiracies; the attempts to incite hatred against the Afghan [Taliban] government are part of a strategy to undermine the Islamic system,” it says.

“The Pakistani Public Should Not Perceive The TTP As A Terrorist Organization But Rather As An Islamic Jihad Group That Fights Against All Oppressors Obstructing The Establishment Of An Islamic System”

The article urges the Pakistani public to recognize these conspiracies and understand that the TTP should not be viewed as a terrorist organization but rather as an Islamic jihadi group striving for an Islamic welfare system. It says: “The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan is striving for an Islamic welfare system in the country. The Pakistani public should not perceive the TTP as a terrorist organization but rather as an Islamic jihad group that fights against all oppressors obstructing the establishment of an Islamic system.”

The magazine’s article seems to take into account the Pakistani military and political leaders’ increasing use of the phrase “Fitnah Al-Khawarij”[1] for TTP and other anti-Pakistani terror groups. The Kharijites (literally, “those who come out”), were an early Islamic sect that advocated the removal of reigning caliphs and excommunicating Muslims for even minor sins. It was proclaimed heretical by the mainstream Sunna. The TTP is framed in the article as fighting Pakistani military leaders who monopolize resources and obstruct the establishment of Islam, accusing them of being loyal to foreign interests and living lavishly abroad after retirement.

The magazine also has a monthly report detailing the attacks executed by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters during August 2024. According to the infographic included in the magazine, TTP fighters conducted a total of 243 attacks in Pakistan, most of them in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, killing 202 members of Pakistani security forces and law enforcement agencies and wounding 245 others.

The report indicates that the majority of the attacks, 74, were executed in Dera Ismail Khan district, followed by 65 in the Bannu district. Out of the 243 attacks, 113 were sniper and “laser”[2] gun attacks, 22 were “offensive” attacks, 32 were grenade and bomb attacks, 14 were ambushes, seven were targeted attacks, 11 were “retaliatory” attacks, 42 were “guerrilla” attacks, and two were missile attacks.

The magazine’s current issue is dated for the Islamic month of Safar, the month before Rabi-ul-Awwal in which Muhammad, the founder of Islam, was born on 12th day. One of the articles, titled “A Brief Overview Of The Noble Character Of The Prophet Of Prophets, Peace Be Upon Him” provides an account of the early life and prophethood of Muhammad. It highlights his noble lineage, birth, and the circumstances of his upbringing, including being cared for by his grandfather Abdul Muttalib and later his uncle Abu Talib.

From an early age, the article reminds the reader, Muhammad was known for his honesty and integrity, earning the titles of Al-Sadiq (“the Truthful)” and Al-Amin (“the Trustworthy”). The article also covers key events such as his marriage to Khadijah, his role in resolving tribal disputes, and his growing inclination toward solitude and worship. It describes the moment of his first revelation at the age of forty and his early efforts to spread the message of Islam, facing resistance from the Quraysh. The article emphasizes his character, leadership, and the divine preparation for his role as the final prophet and leader of all mankind.

[1] Kharijites (literally, “those who come out”), were an early Islamic sect that advocated excommunicating Muslims for even minor sins and was proclaimed heretical by the mainstream Sunna. Today, the term is used to brand Muslim groups as extremist.

[2] Though the precise meaning is not clear, the word “laser” has been used in such statements in the past to refer to sniper attacks using thermal night-vision goggles.