The funeral of former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar’s brother in Islamabad attracted notice when Lashkar-e-Taiba members, including deputy chief Saifullah Kasuri, appeared at the event. Kasuri is known for his strong anti-India statements. Shahid Akhtar, the elder brother, died on June 24.
A widely shared video captured several LeT leaders at the burial in Islamabad’s H-8 graveyard. These figures have been linked to major attacks in India, such as the 2008 Mumbai assaults and the Pahalgam incident. Inam Ur Rehman, head of the Pakistan Markazi Muslim League, LeT’s political wing, was also present.
The PMML was created by UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed to bypass restrictions on groups like Jamaat-ud-Dawa and Milli Muslim League. It took part in Pakistan’s 2024 elections.
The open attendance of such figures at a public ceremony highlights Pakistan’s ongoing ties with anti-India networks and the freedom these groups enjoy. It also points to their influence within the country’s power structure. Shoaib Akhtar, who retired in 2011, continues to work as a commentator, including for the IPL.
Saifullah Kasuri’s participation raises particular concerns in India due to his history of inflammatory speeches. After the Pahalgam attack that killed 25 tourists, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and carried out Operation Sindoor, striking terror sites including the Lashkar base in Muridke.
Kasuri has since issued further threats, including warnings of sea-based attacks similar to 26/11. In one video, he claimed the Pakistani army invites him to events and funeral prayers, while accusing India of water-related aggression and promising unrest in response.
