Fazlur Rehman urges policy review on Afghanistan, warns of Pakistan’s regional isolation

Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the leader of Pakistan’s Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), has called on the Pakistani government to reassess its Afghanistan policy, warning that the country risks increasing diplomatic isolation across the region.

Addressing a ceremony organized by JUI-F leader Kafeel Nizami, Rehman criticized what he described as contradictory state narratives toward Afghanistan. He questioned why bilateral relations have failed to improve despite more than seven decades of engagement.

“We must reflect on whether all the mistakes lie on Afghanistan’s side,” he said, urging policymakers to abandon efforts aimed at maintaining influence over Kabul. He emphasized that a stable and sovereign Afghanistan would better serve regional peace and long-term strategic interests.

The JUI-F chief also cautioned against repeated attempts at regime change, arguing that such approaches have historically deepened instability. He linked past conflicts and interventionist policies to ongoing regional tensions.

Criticizing United States foreign policy, Rehman described Washington’s approach as inconsistent, saying it shifts positions depending on circumstances. He urged Pakistan to avoid entanglement in great-power rivalries and instead pursue an independent, sovereignty-driven diplomatic strategy.

Rehman further warned that Pakistan’s relations with India, Iran, and Afghanistan are under strain, while several regional states are strengthening partnerships with India.

He concluded by calling for a unified national foreign policy, stressing the need for collective decision-making among political stakeholders rather than reliance on a single party’s approach.