Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has claimed that its newly created women’s wing has recruited about 5,000 women, many of whom are being trained for suicide missions, according to a post by the group’s leader Masood Azhar on social media.
New Women’s Wing Formed
The group set up a separate unit for women called Jamaat-ul-Mominat, which is reportedly led by Masood Azhar’s sister, Saeeda Azhar. The organisation has actively expanded this wing in recent weeks, saying it wants to strengthen its presence and influence.
Claims About Training
Masood Azhar said that the women are not only being recruited but also being trained and indoctrinated for possible suicide missions. He claimed that many women who joined expressed that being part of the unit gave them a sense of purpose and strengthened their faith, according to his social media post.
Organisational Structure Plans
JeM’s chief said that the organisation plans to set up district-level offices in regions it controls, each led by a female head, to further organise and coordinate activities of the women’s wing.
Broader Militant Strategy
Experts say the creation and growth of this women’s wing marks a new shift in militant strategy, where extremist groups are trying to include women in roles beyond support to direct action. They suggest this reflects efforts to widen the group’s reach and operational capacities.