COAS blames foreign powers for 'digital terrorism' in Pakistan

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) , General Asim Munir, on Tuesday, said that foreign powers were behind a surge in what he termed 'digital terrorism,' aimed at driving a wedge between state institutions and the public.

Speaking at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul during an Independence Day parade, COAS Asim Munir highlighted the importance of countering these efforts under the vision of 'Azm-i-Istehkam'.

He warned that those attempting to destabilise the nation would ultimately face disappointment.

COAS addressed various key issues, including tensions on the Western border, the resurgence of the
Fitna Al Khawarij (FAK)  also known as theTehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the ongoing unrest in Balochistan.

He called on Afghanistan's Taliban government not to favour the FAK over its longstanding relationship with Pakistan.

The army chief also criticised the increasing use of social media to spread misinformation, which he claimed was being exploited by the country's adversaries to incite chaos and undermine the military.

He stressed that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, it also sets clear boundaries.

In an apparent reference to recent protests in Balochistan, Gen Munir vowed that the military, along with the federal and provincial governments, was committed to ensuring the security and welfare of the Baloch people.

He warned that any attempt to destabilise the province would not be tolerated.

The army chief also thanked friendly nations, including China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Turkiye, for their support.

He reiterated Pakistan's unwavering commitment to the Kashmir cause and condemned the ongoing atrocities in Gaza.