At a time when different states are embroiled in disputes with neighbors and are busy countering rivals by outrightly labelling them as terrorists, Pakistan has raised fingers towards the use of the definition of terrorism. The issue was raised during a speech made by Pakistan’s acting permanent representative Usman Jadoon during a debate in the UN General Assembly’s Legal Committee on measures to eliminate international terrorism. The misuse of the terminology of terrorism by certain ‘powerful’ states to either perpetuate their illegal occupation or continue counter strikes against their opponents has created new manifestations of international terrorism. In support of this assertion, Pakistan has cited the largescale violations of human rights in Palestine and Jammu and Kashmir by Israel and India respectively. This viewpoint was also emphasized in a previous statement delivered by Saudi Arabia on behalf of the OIC member states before the Sixth Committee of the General Assembly in New York on October 12, 2015. The statement called for an end to the blatant violation of international law and emphasized the need to differentiate between terrorism and the struggle for self-determination by people under foreign occupation. Being a victim of consequences of this new form of terrorism, Islamabad clearly shared the role of New Delhi for sponsoring terror outfits in Pakistan to destabilize its economy. At the same time, the Pakistani envoy hit hard on Israel’s policy of waging a war on Palestinians in the name of ‘curbing terrorism’. Arguably, Israel believes that armed resistance by Palestinians ‘force’ it to take extreme measures, including widespread bombing, in order to protect its population. To some extent, same is the situation with India that has waged a war against freedom fighters in disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir by declaring them ‘rebels’. Islam is being perceived as synonym with terrorism by most western countries and Pakistan has aptly stressed for changing this ill-perceived notion. It has been demanded that the UN counter-terror structure needs to be changed to remove Islamophobic terminologies such as ‘jihadists’ and ‘Islamists’.
In the face of escalating terrorism and Islamophobia in the western world, it is imperative for global leaders to devise a comprehensive, and unified approach to counter terrorism in all its forms. The reality of Islamophobia is evident through its alarming manifestations such as hate speech, discrimination, and violence against Muslims, which are increasingly prevalent in various parts of the world. Just like fanatics who exploit ‘religion’ for their malevolent agendas, those affected by Islamophobia perpetrate crimes against innocent Muslims solely based on their faith. It’s crucial to foster collaboration among like-minded Muslim countries worldwide for this cause. Equally important is to ensure that European Muslims understand the true essence of Islam and demonstrate behaviors that reflect its authentic teachings, rather than the distorted portrayal by hate-mongers. Extremism is a tendency that can affect individuals of any background. In addition to addressing the misuse of religion, it is crucial for leaders to tackle issues such as lack of education, poverty, and human rights concerns. These factors contribute to fear, ignorance, and desperation, making individuals vulnerable to the influence of extremists. Collaboration among world leaders is essential to effectively handle this complex issue. It’s important to create policies that address threats and take appropriate actions against them. Muslim countries need to work together to protect Muslims from internal and external threats. The current global situation emphasizes the necessity of a unified strategy, which demands a thorough review of the UN’s approach in tackling international terrorism.