Kamran Siraj Aror Uuniversity of Art, Architecture, Design and Heritage, Suukur https://orcid.org/0009-0005-2236-7860

The article critically examines the policies implemented by the Pervez Musharraf government toward madrassas, with a specific focus on their roles in post-9/11 contexts under Musharraf’s leadership. The events of September 11, 2001, fundamentally transformed Pakistan’s security and political landscape, shifting the status of former mujahideen from allies to adversaries. The study further explores the evolution of US-Pakistan relations and analyzes Musharraf’s strategic response to 9/11, particularly his efforts to shield the Pakistani population from the adverse impacts of the War on Terror. The paper assesses the effectiveness of Musharraf’s madrassa policies and the extent of his attempts at mainstream integration. In addition, it considers the political dynamics surrounding Nawaz Sharif’s dismissal of Chief of Army Staff Jahangir Karamat and the subsequent appointment of Pervez Musharraf as COAS in October 1999. Although Musharraf initially managed the ensuing diplomatic challenges effectively, his efforts ultimately proved unsustainable in the longer term.