Time to unite

ISLAMABAD: The ‘peace talks’ between the TTP and the government were not doomed because they were ill-conceived and reckless. That these talks were not getting anywhere was obvious during the first few rounds of the charade. Why was the obvious lost on some people? The people who virtually served as apologists of the terrorists? This is beyond comprehension.

The TTP ended up gaining what it wanted: time for the snow to melt on the mountains and to position terrorists in urban centres. The brazen attack on Jinnah International Airport in Karachi is thus no surprise. And as such, such a grisly and well-planned assault should have been anticipated by those responsible for protecting that important state facility.

Indeed, we should brace up for more attacks in our urban centres in the aftermath of the formal commencement of operation against the TTP. Now that the government has finally decided to go after the terrorists, the political parties should realise their national responsibility and desist from creating confusion which results in weakening the national resolve. As Pakistanis, we should know that the Operation Zarb-e-Azb is actually one of the most important battles to reclaim the lost soul of Pakistan. The PPP, the PTI, the MQM and other political parties have done well by publicly supporting the operation — now it is the turn of the right-wing parties to step forward and play their role in a positive manner and avoid creating confusions in the minds of people.

Moreover, no one, particularly not any of the political leaders, should undermine the sacrifices of our soldiers, policemen, paramilitary forces and civilians. This is the time for unity and patient cooperation. Let’s be patient with those who are protecting us and also with one another during this tough time.

Alamgir Khan

Published in The Express Tribune, June 18^th, 2014.

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