RAWALPINDI:
Amidst the security forces’ relentless efforts to purge the country of the scourge of terrorism, politicians in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa have agreed on the need for a unified front across political colors against the extremist philosophy of terrorist groups.
In an interaction with Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, who was visiting Peshawar, politicians belonging to different political parties promised consensus on the need for a single political voice and public support against the scourge of terrorism.
“Political representatives showed vivid clarity about the unwavering support of the armed forces and LEAs [law enforcement agencies] in the nation’s fight against terrorism and we agree on the need for a unified front beyond political colors against the extremist philosophy of terrorist groups,” the military’s media wing, the ISPR, said in a statement.
The army chief also made it clear that any attempt to disturb the peace of the nation will be met with “decisive and overwhelming force.” The reaffirmation of counter-terrorism resolve coincided with a successful Intelligence Based Operation (IBO) in Kacchi district of Balochistan that left 27 terrorists dead. A day earlier, nine Khwarij were eliminated in two separate IBOs in North Waziristan district of KP.
“The enemy may try to sow discord and fear, but we will not give in. Hostile elements will be dealt with an iron fist. They will continue to suffer heavy losses and their ability to inflict damage will be decimated,” General Asim said during a comprehensive briefing on the situation prevailing security situation and the ongoing counter-terrorism operations targeting Fitna Al Khwarij.
The briefing was also attended by the federal interior minister and KP chief minister, the army’s media wing, the ISPR, said in a statement. Upon arrival, the army chief was received by the Peshawar corps commander.
General Asim praised the “unwavering resolve and unparalleled sacrifices” of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, who have been instrumental in dismantling terrorist networks and thwarting their nefarious agenda.
“As we stand united against the forces of evil, I am immensely proud of the remarkable achievements of our security forces. Through their dedication, courage and supreme sacrifices, we have successfully degraded the operational capabilities of terrorist organizations, both within our borders as well as beyond,” he said.
“Our forces have relentlessly pursued and eliminated key terrorist leaders, dismantled their infrastructure and neutralized their cells, sending a clear message that terrorism has no place in our land. This war continues and we will take it to its logical conclusion, InshAllah,” , added the army chief.
General Asim further highlighted the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of citizens, thwart numerous attacks and maintain peace and order. “Each operation has been a testament to the courage, professionalism and operational preparedness of the security forces, who continue to thwart the evolving threats posed by terrorists,” he added.
In his year-end press conference, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry of DG ISPR said security forces had carried out a total of 59,775 operations in 2024, noting that Pakistan had made many sacrifices in its fight against terrorism.
“During these successful operations, 925 terrorists, including Khawarij, were sent to hell and numerous were arrested,” he said on December 27 last year, highlighting that the number of terrorists killed was the highest in the last five years. He added that Pakistan’s army, law enforcement and intelligence agencies and police were carrying out “more than 179 operations” daily.
The army chief praised the “exceptional morale” of the troops, who remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty. “The Pakistan Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies are an unwavering force, resolute in their mission to protect the homeland and its people,” he reaffirmed.
