Has Masood Azhar Just Approved the Formation of JeM's Women’s Brigade ‘Jamaat-ul-Mominaat’?
Synopsis
In a groundbreaking shift, Jaish-e-Mohammed has launched its first women's brigade, 'Jamaat-ul-Mominaat', under the leadership of Masood Azhar's sister. This radical change marks a new chapter in the terror group's strategy amidst ongoing military pressures and operational losses.
Key Takeaways
JeM creates its first women's brigade, 'Jamaat-ul-Mominaat' Led by Sadiya Azhar, sister of Masood Azhar Recruitment targets economically vulnerable women Shift in strategy indicates potential for female combatants Pakistan seeks to rebuild terror infrastructure post-Operation Sindoor
New Delhi, Oct 9 (NationPress) In a significant strategic shift, the Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has unveiled its inaugural women’s division, titled “Jamaat-ul-Mominaat”, as reported by sources to IANS.
This announcement was made public via a letter attributed to JeM leader and UN-designated terrorist Maulana Masood Azhar.
The letter indicates that the recruitment initiative for this newly established unit commenced at Markaz Usman-o-Ali in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, on October 8.
It is noteworthy that during Operation Sindoor, Indian Security Forces targeted JeM's headquarters situated in Bahawalpur, in southern Punjab, Pakistan.
Last month, JeM commander Ilyas Kashmiri stated in a video that the operation in Bahawalpur resulted in the deaths of Azhar’s family members.
According to the recent communication disseminated by JeM’s propaganda arm Al-Qalam Media, the women’s brigade will be known as ‘Jamaat-ul-Mominaat’, with recruitment efforts starting on October 8, 2025.
Sources reveal that this women’s brigade will be helmed by Sadiya Azhar, the sister of Masood Azhar, whose spouse Yusuf Azhar was killed during Operation Sindoor on May 7 when Indian forces targeted JeM's headquarters at Markaz Subhanallah.
Reports indicate that the terror organization has begun enlisting the spouses of its commanders as well as economically disadvantaged women studying at its facilities in Bahawalpur, Karachi, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Haripur, and Mansehra.
This Deobandi-rooted group, which has traditionally prohibited women from engaging in armed jihad or combat roles, seems to have altered its position following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor.
Intelligence sources suggest that Masood Azhar and his brother Talha al-Saif have collectively sanctioned the decision to incorporate women into JeM’s operational framework, culminating in the formation of this exclusive female brigade.
While organizations like ISIS, Boko Haram, Hamas, and LTTE have a history of deploying women as suicide bombers, groups such as JeM, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen have largely refrained from doing so. However, sources now believe that JeM’s latest development indicates its intention to train and utilize female suicide bombers in forthcoming terror campaigns.
Post-Operation Sindoor, JeM, Hizbul Mujahideen, and Lashkar-e-Taiba have strategically relocated to Pakistan’s tumultuous region, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK).
Significantly, Pakistan is now leaving no stone unturned to reconstruct these terrorist infrastructures that were damaged during Operation Sindoor and is soliciting donations from the public.
As reported by IANS in August, JeM has initiated an online fundraising campaign via EasyPaisa to gather Rs 3.91 billion for the establishment of 313 new markaz across Pakistan.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the alarming trend of terrorist organizations adapting their strategies in response to external pressures. The formation of JeM's women's brigade signifies a potential escalation in their operational capabilities. We must remain vigilant and informed about these developments to ensure national security and public awareness.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of JeM's women’s brigade?
The women’s brigade, 'Jamaat-ul-Mominaat', aims to recruit women into JeM's operations, potentially expanding their tactical framework and operational reach.
Who is leading the women's brigade?
The brigade will be led by Sadiya Azhar, the sister of JeM chief Masood Azhar.
Why is this development significant?
This move represents a significant shift in JeM's operational strategy, allowing them to potentially utilize women in combat roles, which is a departure from their traditional stance.
What areas are affected by this recruitment?
Recruitment is taking place in various regions including Bahawalpur, Karachi, Muzaffarabad, and others.
How is Pakistan responding to the aftermath of Operation Sindoor?
Pakistan is reportedly working to rebuild terrorist infrastructures and has initiated online fundraising campaigns to support these efforts.
