National Resolve Against Terrorism
ISLAMABAD: On Saturday, the Pakistan government approved a reinvigorated and re-energized national counter-terrorism campaign through the launch of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, reflecting the country’s unwavering resolve to eradicate extremism and terrorism. This significant move received consensus from all stakeholders, symbolizing a united front against these threats.
Stakeholders’ Consensus on Operation Azm-e-Istehkam
Operation Azm-e-Istehkam was initiated with the full consensus of all stakeholders, including the provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The Central Apex Committee on the National Action Plan (NAP), chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, endorsed this comprehensive operation.
“Azm-e-Istehkam will integrate and synergize multiple lines of effort to combat the menaces of extremism and terrorism in a comprehensive and decisive manner,” stated a press release from the PM Office Media Wing.
The meeting was attended by key ministers of the federal cabinet, chief ministers of all provinces and Gilgit-Baltistan, Services Chiefs, and senior officials from civilian, military, and law enforcement agencies.
Comprehensive Counter-Terrorism Strategy
The forum conducted a thorough review of the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign and assessed the internal security situation. It emphasized that the fight against extremism and terrorism is Pakistan’s war, crucial for the nation’s survival and well-being. The forum resolved that no one would be allowed to challenge the writ of the state without exception.
The progress on the multi-domain tenets of the National Action Plan was scrutinized, with a focus on identifying and addressing implementation shortcomings as a top priority. The necessity for a comprehensive and reinvigorated counter-terrorism strategy, founded on complete national consensus and system-wide synergy, was underscored.
Enhancing Regional Cooperation
In the politico-diplomatic domain, the forum resolved to intensify efforts to curtail the operational space for terrorists through regional cooperation. The renewed kinetic efforts of the armed forces will be supported by all law enforcement agencies, empowered by effective legislation to address legal voids hindering the prosecution of terrorism-related cases and awarding exemplary punishments.
Socioeconomic Measures and Information Strategy
The campaign will be complemented by socioeconomic measures aimed at addressing genuine concerns of the people and creating an environment discouraging extremist tendencies. The information space will be leveraged to promote a unified national narrative in support of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam.
Additionally, the forum reviewed measures to ensure foolproof security for Chinese nationals in Pakistan. Following the prime minister’s approval, new standard operating procedures (SOPs) were issued to enhance mechanisms for providing comprehensive security to Chinese citizens in the country.
Surge in Terrorist Activities
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in terrorist activities, particularly in KP and Balochistan, since the outlawed militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022. According to an annual security report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies, Pakistan experienced 1,524 violence-related fatalities and 1,463 injuries from 789 terror attacks and counter-terror operations in 2023, marking a six-year high.
Operation Azm-e-Istehkam aims to decisively address these challenges, ensuring a safer and more secure Pakistan.
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