Holistic approach: ANP demands targeted operation across country

According to Mian Iftikhar, the Islamic State has become an imminent threat in Swat after the defeat of TTP

PESHAWAR:

Awami National Party Central General Secretary Mian Iftikhar Hussain has said targeted operations against terrorists should be conducted in Punjab as well as other parts of the country.

According to a statement issued by the party, he was addressing a gathering at Wadudia Hall in Mingora on Sunday to honour Pukhtun nationalist leader Afzal Khan Lala. The ANP leader said military operations in Fata are not sufficient to tackle militancy.

“The concept of good and bad militants has enhanced Talibanisation in the country,” he said. “At this stage, all parties should focus on eliminating terrorists from the country.” He added, “Military offensives should be launched in Punjab and other parts of the country to weaken militant networks.”

According to Mian Iftikhar, the Islamic State has become an imminent threat in Swat after the defeat of
the Taliban.

“Over 40 countries are financing the militants,”
he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 21^st,  2015.