K-P politicians agree on unified front against terror

COAS interacts with politicians from different parties; says enemy may try to sow discord, but we won't relent

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RAWALPINDI:

Amid unrelenting security forces' efforts to purge the country of the scourge of terrorism, politicians from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa have agreed on the need for a unified front beyond political colours against the extremist philosophy of terrorist groups.

In an interaction with Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, who was on a visit to Peshawar, the politicians belonging to different political parties pledged consensus on the need for one political voice and public support against the scourge of terrorism.

"The political representatives showed vivid clarity on unflinching support of the armed forces and LEAs [law enforcement agencies] in the nation's fight against terror and agreed on the need for a unified front beyond political colours 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 nation's peace will be met with "decisive and overwhelming force". The reaffirmation of counterterror resolve coincided with a successful intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Kacchi District of Balochistan which left 27 terrorists dead. A day earlier, nine Khwarij were eliminated in two separate IBOs in North Waziristan District of K-P.

"The enemy may try to sow discord and fear, but we will not relent. Hostile elements will be dealt with an iron hand. They will continue to suffer heavy losses, and their capacity to inflict harm will be decimated," Gen Asim said during a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing security situation and the ongoing counterterrorism operations targeting Fitna Al Khwarij.

The briefing was also attended by the federal minister of interior and the chief minister of K-P, the military's media wing, the ISPR, said in a statement. Earlier upon arrival, the army chief was received by the corps commander Peshawar.

Gen Asim praised the "unwavering resolve and unmatched 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 organisations, both within our borders and beyond," he said.

"Our forces have relentlessly pursued and eliminated key terrorist leaders, dismantled their infrastructure, and neutralised their cells, sending a clear message that terror has no place in our land. This war is ongoing and we would take it to its logical conclusion, InshAllah," the army chief added.

General Asim further emphasised the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety and security of citizens, foiling numerous attacks, and maintaining peace and order. "Every operation has been a testament to the courage, professionalism, and operational readiness of the security forces, who continue to thwart the evolving threats posed by terrorists," he added.

In his year-end news briefing, DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that security forces had conducted a total of 59,775 operations in 2024, noting that Pakistan had rendered a lot of sacrifices in its fight against terrorism.

"During these successful operations, 925 terrorists, including Khawarij, were sent to hell while numerous were arrested," he said on Dec 27 last year, highlighting that the number of terrorists killed was the largest in the last five years. He added that "more than 179 operations" were being conducted on a daily basis by the Pakistan Army, law enforcement and intelligence agencies, and police.

The army chief lauded the "exceptional morale" of the troops, who remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguarding sovereignty of the nation. "The Pakistan Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies stand as an unbreakable force, resolute in their mission to protect the motherland and its people," he reaffirmed.