The highly anticipated public gathering of Hafiz Saeed, the notorious chief of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), in Lahore has been abruptly called off. The rally, originally scheduled for Sunday, November 2, at the historic Minar-e-Pakistan, was widely viewed as a strategic move to demonstrate the banned group’s strength. However, official confirmation indicates the event has been postponed indefinitely, leaving supporters in suspense.
An announcement, captured in a social media video, relayed that Saeed, referred to as ‘Ameer-e-Mohtaram,’ made the personal decision to cancel the rally. This unexpected declaration has generated confusion and disappointment among the cadre, who were geared up for Saeed’s return to public platforms after an extended period out of the spotlight.
According to intelligence community insights, Pakistan’s potent Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is believed to have directed Lashkar-e-Taiba’s leadership to abandon the planned rally. This action is purportedly linked to a surge in threats emanating from the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has intensified its offensive operations lately. Pakistan’s security forces are reportedly under significant strain due to escalating conflicts among various militant organizations operating domestically.
The postponed rally was also intended as a memorial for fighters lost during the recent ‘Operation Sindoor.’ Images from the intended venue had showcased tributes to LeT operatives proclaimed as ‘martyrs,’ all allegedly connected to the group’s central hub in Muridke, Punjab. The sudden cancellation has left a significant portion of Lashkar’s followers feeling demoralized and uncertain about subsequent actions.
Discussions among individuals close to LeT’s support network suggest the postponement could signal internal divisions between key militant figures and Pakistan’s intelligence establishment. For the time being, the group’s sympathizers are awaiting clarification on whether the event will be rescheduled. This postponement arrives as Pakistan grapples with intensified domestic and international scrutiny concerning its efforts to rein in terrorism and illicit financial networks. The reaction of Saeed’s LeT to this disruption will be critical in understanding the future direction of this prominent South Asian militant entity.