Namaz-e-Istisqa will be offered on January 26 in Pakistan as rains have been scarce in the ongoing winter season.

Chairman Ulema Council Maulana Tahir Ashrafi made the announcement in a press conference on Monday. He added that Pakistan was looking at a drought if rains did not come soon.

He added that the prayers also have to be offered to ask forgiveness from the almighty God.

The namaz-e-Istisqaa is made to seek water (rain) from almighty God during drought and times of low rainfall.

During the presser, Maulana also appreciated the decision of the interim government and military leadership to respond to Iran’s stirkes with its own. He added Pakistan has the strongest defensive system that can withstand any challenge.

“We will not compromise on the integrity of the country,” he said.