Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, in a recent television interview, referred to Afghanistan’s historical leader, Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni, as a “thief.” Khawaja Asif claimed that Sultan Mahmud looted wealth during his military campaigns and brought it back to Afghanistan. He further stated, “Some people regard Mahmud of Ghazni as a hero, but I do not see him as one.”
It is worth mentioning that Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni is considered one of the greatest and most successful rulers in Islamic history. During his reign, he strengthened the foundations of the Ghaznavid Empire and expanded his territory to include present-day Afghanistan, eastern Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and parts of India. His conquests not only marked the expansion of Islamic civilization but also demonstrated the power of the Ghaznavid Empire.
During his era, the city of Ghazni was a major center of knowledge, literature, and culture. Sultan Mahmud supported various fields of science and scholars to promote Islamic civilization. His reign is often referred to as a golden age of knowledge and art.
Khawaja Asif’s recent remarks have sparked strong reactions from Afghans on social media. Many users defended Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni’s legacy and contributions, calling Asif’s statements unprofessional and disrespectful.
Numerous social media users have urged Afghanistan’s current rulers to issue an official response to Khawaja Asif’s comments and to defend the historical significance of Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni.
