11/27/2023 Pakistan (International Christian Concern) — Farhan ul-Qamar, a 20-year-old Christian man, was shot and killed in his home two weeks ago by a Muslim extremist claiming hatred toward both Christians and Jews. The incident is another example of the growing religious intolerance in Pakistan. 

The killer, identified by police as Muhammad Zubair, broke into the home on the night of Nov. 9 and fatally shot ul-Qamar three times. After the murder, he held the family hostage for nearly an hour, refusing to allow them to call for help. Doctors later told the media that he could have been saved if help had arrived sooner.  

Zubair’s violence seems to have worsened in recent weeks, escalating in response to the current conflict in Israel and Gaza. He has a reputation that, even after hearing three shots fired in the home, neighbors remained inside for fear of being his next victims. Other Christians in the village have fled their homes with the same fear, in an attempt to remove themselves from the community for their own protection.  

Zubair is currently in police custody after being arrested in his home shortly after the incident and his case is still waiting for resolution. The family of the victim is currently seeking financial assistance to secure legal representation. Without this, the murderer may be set free. 

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