'If you love Iran, why don't you go to Iran': Asim Munir remarks spark outrage in Shia community after Iftar meeting

Asim Munir’s ‘go to Iran’ remark sparks backlash among Shia community after Iftar meet

A reported exchange between Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir and senior Shia clerics has triggered controversy in Pakistan, following an Iftar gathering held on March 19.

According to X accounts cited by CNN-News18, the meeting involved a closed-door interaction between the Army Chief and members of the Shia ulema. Sources present at the gathering described the interaction as a one-sided address lasting about an hour, during which religious scholars were not given an opportunity to respond or raise concerns.

The controversy centres on a remark attributed to Asim Munir during the meeting, where he reportedly told attendees, “I'm told, if you love Iran so much, why don't you go to Iran. Let me tell you Jinnah was a Shia,” drawing strong reactions amid ongoing tensions in West Asia involving Iran, with participants alleging that the Army Chief addressed senior scholars in an insulting manner before leaving without allowing any dialogue.

Allama Shifa Najafi of Islamabad explains how the army Chief used a stern and tough language against Shias asking them to leave the country pic.twitter.com/NCwicinFQe

— THE UNKNOWN MAN (@Theunk5555) March 20, 2026

Other religious figures echoed similar concerns. Maulana Hasnain Abbas Gardezi reportedly criticised the tone of the interaction, calling it inappropriate for a senior constitutional office holder. Allama Nazir Abbas Taqvi, who was present at the meeting, said he attempted to intervene multiple times to initiate a discussion but was unable to do so.

Attendees were reportedly assured of a follow-up interaction after the Iftar, but said the Army Chief left without further engagement, adding to dissatisfaction among participants.

The remarks have been widely interpreted within sections of the community as equating religious affinity with questions of national loyalty. The episode has since sparked debate over civil-military engagement and sectarian sensitivities in Pakistan.