The Significance of Abdul Rehman Makki's Passing for JuD and Hafiz Saeed

Islamabad, Dec 27 (NationPress) Abdul Rehman Makki, who was the brother-in-law of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks architect Hafiz Saeed, passed away in Lahore following a heart attack on Friday. Makki was deemed to be the right-hand associate of the leader of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD), Hafiz Muhammad Saeed.

As the Deputy Chief of JuD, Makki was one of Hafiz Saeed's closest confidants and was viewed as the second most powerful figure within the organization, holding significant decision-making authority over JuD operations in Pakistan.

A source close to Makki confirmed, "Abdul Rehman Makki was battling multiple health issues and had been receiving treatment in a hospital in Lahore. He faced severe complications from diabetes, infections, and high blood pressure."

The source added, "Makki suffered a cardiac arrest early this morning (Friday), which led to his demise."

Since 2020, Abdul Rehman Makki had maintained a low profile after an anti-terrorism court in Lahore handed him a 6-month prison sentence for terror financing charges.

Reports indicate that Makki was residing with Hafiz Saeed and his family at their home in Johar Town, Lahore.

It is important to highlight that Makki held considerable influence within JuD, overseeing significant operations as well as fundraising efforts for the organization.

Furthermore, sources reveal that Makki had strong connections and resources, particularly in Punjab, including his hometown Bahawalpur and regions along the Working Boundary adjacent to India.

In 2023, Abdul Rehman Makki was also included on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) list of designated terrorists.

Sources indicate that Makki had close ties with Saudi Arabia and played a pivotal role in garnering support and substantial funding from the country during the escalation of the Saudi-Yemen conflict.

During this period, JuD initiated a nationwide protest campaign, publicly declaring its support for the safeguarding of the Islamic holy sites in Medina and Mecca against any external threats.

Although JuD's operations in Pakistan faced a shutdown after Islamabad was compelled to act against JuD to escape the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), sources indicate that Makki remained a vital force behind the political representation of JuD, the Milli Muslim League (MML), and was influential in their activities throughout Punjab.

Makki's death represents a significant blow to Hafiz Saeed, as he was not only Saeed's right-hand man but also his brother-in-law.