Is Fajr prayer Sunnah or Fard?

If what is meant by Fajr prayer is the pre-Fajr Sunnah (supererogatory prayer), then it is an emphasized Sunnah that the Prophet (peace be upon him) consistently performed, whether resident or traveling. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said: "The Prophet (peace be upon him) was not more diligent in observing any optional prayer than the two rak'ahs of Fajr." This is the view of the majority of scholars. However, Al-Hasan Al-Basri, and Al-Shawkani who agreed with him, held that it is obligatory, citing the hadith: "Do not abandon the two rak'ahs of Fajr, even if horses pursue you." This hadith is interpreted as encouragement and emphasis, not as an obligation, based on the hadith of the Bedouin who asked the Prophet (peace be upon him): "Are there five prayers in a day and a night?" He asked: "Is anything else obligatory upon me?" He (the Prophet) said: "No, unless you volunteer."