A former Intelligence Bureau (IB) Director strongly countered a CNN reporter’s narrative regarding the Muridke mosque, emphasizing its deep-rooted connections to terrorist activities and its association with Hafiz Saeed, the founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Muridke Mosque’s Terror Links
The Muridke complex, located 33 km from Lahore, has long been identified as the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba, operating under the guise of Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD). The site has been a training ground for militants, with recruits undergoing combat drills and ideological indoctrination before being deployed for operations against India.
CNN Reporter’s Controversial Remarks
During a televised discussion, a CNN journalist reportedly sympathized with the Muridke mosque, questioning whether India’s Operation Sindoor had targeted a religious site rather than a terror base. The remarks sparked backlash, with security experts highlighting Muridke’s long-standing role in terror financing and recruitment.
Ex-IB Director’s Response
The former IB Director, who has closely monitored Pakistan-based terror networks, firmly dismissed the CNN reporter’s claims, stating, “The maulana here was Hafiz Saeed. This was not just a mosque—it was a terror headquarters.” He further elaborated that Muridke has been a nerve center for LeT operations, facilitating terror attacks on Indian soil, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
India’s Strikes on Muridke
As part of Operation Sindoor, Indian forces targeted and destroyed terror infrastructure in Muridke, eliminating high-value militants linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and LeT. The strikes were executed with precision, ensuring minimal civilian casualties while dismantling terror hubs.
Global Reactions & Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan has denied Muridke’s terror links, claiming that the site housed educational and health facilities. However, intelligence reports and satellite imagery confirm that Muridke has been a strategic asset for LeT, with Pakistan’s ISI providing logistical support.
The confrontation between the ex-IB Director and CNN reporter underscores the ongoing battle over narratives, as India continues to expose and dismantle terror networks operating across the border.
