Despite significant successes from previous counterterrorism operations, the country continues to face threats from terrorist factions determined to reverse these gains.
By Asghar Ali Mubarak
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the complete eradication of terrorism from the country. Following a recent surge in terrorist attacks, General Munir emphasized that these assaults are part of a broader conspiracy aimed at weakening Pakistan, which has been actively engaged in a fierce battle against terrorism.
Despite significant successes from previous counterterrorism operations, the country continues to face threats from terrorist factions determined to reverse these gains. The attacks targeting law enforcement agencies and sensitive installations underscore the determination of terrorist groups and their sympathizers to destabilize the nation.
To address the growing challenge, experts are calling for an enhanced counterterrorism strategy. While Pakistan has a functional counterterrorism framework, there is a pressing need for a complementary approach that not only addresses immediate threats but also focuses on eliminating the underlying conditions that foster terrorism. Counterterrorism and counterinsurgency strategies, though often used interchangeably, differ significantly. The former works proactively to prevent terrorism, while the latter is more reactive, focusing on military operations post-attack.
General Munir’s resolve to continue the mission against terrorism with national unity and support was underscored during his visit to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Quetta, where he met with those injured in a recent terrorist attack. He vowed that terrorism would not be tolerated and pledged that Pakistan’s forces—military and civilian—would work together to achieve lasting peace.
The latest wave of terrorism, which includes a suicide blast at Quetta’s railway station, has raised alarms. The attack, which claimed the lives of 27 people and injured over 60, was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA), an outlawed separatist group. The blast targeted a Pakistani army troop, signaling an ongoing campaign to destabilize Pakistan’s security forces.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, offering condolences to the victims’ families, while Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti vowed to pursue those responsible and continue efforts to eradicate terrorism in the region. The international community has also condemned the attack, with statements from Russia and the United States expressing solidarity with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism.
In addition to military efforts, security forces have carried out operations targeting terrorist hideouts. In North Waziristan, six militants were killed during an operation near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. These operations, backed by intelligence, aim to dismantle terrorist networks operating within and beyond Pakistan’s borders.
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan remain tense due to the use of Afghan territory by terrorist groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), to stage attacks on Pakistani forces. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has criticized the Afghan government for its failure to curb these cross-border attacks, which continue to target Pakistani soldiers and Chinese nationals, particularly in Balochistan.
Pakistan has repeatedly urged Afghanistan to take decisive action against these groups, but the lack of effective response has led to growing frustration. The Pakistani military has made it clear that it will not hesitate to take action against TTP bases in Afghanistan if necessary, as national security cannot be compromised.
As the country grapples with this ongoing threat, General Munir’s leadership remains crucial in ensuring that the war against terrorism continues with resolve, collaboration, and national unity. The commitment of Pakistan’s armed forces, along with the support of its citizens, will be essential in securing a safer future for the country.
