Tragic Assassination of Prominent Cleric in Pakistan: ISIS Claims Responsibility

In a shocking incident, a prominent cleric, Maulana Muhammad Idrees, was assassinated by ISIS gunmen in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The attack has led to widespread protests, with citizens demanding justice for the slain religious leader. As investigations unfold, authorities are under pressure to apprehend the attackers. This tragic event highlights the ongoing issues of targeted killings and terrorism in the region, prompting calls for improved security measures. The cleric's death has drawn condolences from political leaders, emphasizing the need for unity against such acts of violence.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 5, 2026, 23:24 IST

Cleric Targeted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Peshawar: A well-known cleric was shot dead on Tuesday by gunmen affiliated with the Islamic State during a targeted attack in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, according to police reports.

The assailants, riding motorcycles, ambushed Sheikh-ul-Hadith Maulana Muhammad Idrees's vehicle in the Utmanzai region of Charsadda district, injuring two of his security personnel.

Idrees, a respected figure among religious scholars in Pakistan, suffered severe injuries and succumbed while being transported to a local hospital. The two injured constables are currently receiving medical care.

The Islamic State's Khorasan Province (ISKP) has claimed responsibility for the attack that resulted in Idrees's death.

The cleric was en route to deliver a lecture at Darul Uloom Utmanzai when the gunfire erupted, as reported by police.

Initial investigations by a joint team from the Counter-Terrorism Department and local police indicate that four terrorists were involved in the attack.

Authorities have captured images of the suspects through Safe City surveillance cameras, and a manhunt is actively underway.

Following the incident, Idrees's body was transported to his hometown of Turangzai, where a large crowd of followers gathered at the hospital upon learning of his passing.

The assassination has triggered protests in the region, with hundreds marching towards Charsadda city, demanding the immediate apprehension of those responsible.

Demonstrators also obstructed major roads and conducted a sit-in at Farooq-e-Azam Chowk.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Inspector General of Police (IGP), Zulfiqar Hameed, has requested a report from the Regional Police Officer in Mardan, urging swift action to arrest the culprits.

In a statement, the IGP praised Idrees's contributions as 'unforgettable' and vowed that those behind this 'heinous act' would face justice.

He noted that preliminary evidence suggests this was a targeted killing, assuring that the perpetrators would be apprehended soon.

Idrees held the position of Charsadda district chief for the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) and was a close associate of party leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

His father-in-law, Maulana Hassan Jan, a prominent religious figure, was murdered in Peshawar in 2007 by the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for opposing armed conflict.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed his condolences over Idrees's death, stating that such cowardly acts cannot demoralize the nation and reaffirming the country's commitment to combat terrorism.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed his sorrow regarding the incident and extended sympathies to the grieving family.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi described the cleric's death as an 'irreparable loss' and has called for a report from the authorities. Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the attack and demanded a thorough report from the police, ensuring the best possible care for the injured security personnel.

Awami National Party (ANP) President Aimal Wali Khan condemned the incident, highlighting it as 'clear evidence' of the deteriorating law and order situation in the province.

'Targeted killings and acts of terrorism have become commonplace in KP,' he remarked, urging both federal and provincial governments to set aside their differences and work towards restoring peace in the region.