Army chief reaffirms resolve to stamp out terror

Says armed forces are resolute to defeat terrorism, ensure lasting peace

RAWALPINDI:

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Tuesday directed formations to remain vigilant and uphold the highest standards of operational preparedness during a visit to Corps Headquarters Peshawar.

The visit took place days after Pakistan carried out airstrikes on terrorist hideouts in various locations in the regions bordering Afghanistan following brazen terror attacks in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the CDF was briefed on the prevailing security situation in K-P, ongoing counter-terrorism operations, border management measures and operational preparedness of formations deployed in the province.

The chief of army staff commended the high morale, readiness and professionalism of officers and troops, acknowledging their steadfast commitment to safeguarding the country and its people.

He emphasised that the armed forces, with the unwavering support of the nation, remain resolute in their determination to defeat terrorism and ensure lasting peace and stability across the country.

Field Marshal Munir also laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada and offered Fateha, paying rich tribute to those who laid down their lives in defence of the motherland and in the fight against terrorism.

He reaffirmed that their supreme sacrifices would never be forgotten. Upon arrival, the COAS was received by Commander Peshawar Corps Syed Omer Ahmed Bokhari.

The visit came days after 23 people, including 15 police personnel, were martyred in a blast at a mosque in Kohat's Police Lines during Friday prayers. Eight terrorists were also killed during a subsequent search and clearance operation.

Later, Ittihadul Mujahideen Pakistan (IMP), led by Afghanistan-based Hafiz Gul Bahadur, claimed responsibility for the deadly bombing and rampage involving multiple attackers.

Two days after the blast, two officers among six security personnel were martyred in an exchange of fire between a security forces convoy and terrorists in K-P's Hangu district. Eight terrorists belonging to the Fitna al-Khawarij were also killed during the exchange.

Following these attacks, Pakistan carried out "calibrated" airstrikes against terrorist hideouts near the Afghan border and conducted intelligence-based ground operations that killed a total of 37 terrorists.