Islamabad – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Monday vowed that terrorism has no place in the country and lauded the successful dismantling of operational capabilities of terror groups active in the country.
Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces, saw a sharp increase in terrorism-related incidents in 2024. There has been an increase in pledges to security forces and other law enforcement agencies (LEAs).
A statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) today said the Army Chief visited Peshawar where he was given a comprehensive briefing on the current security situation and ongoing counter-terrorism operations against the TTP.
Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Khyber Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also attended the briefing.
“I am extremely proud of the outstanding achievements of our security forces as we unite against the forces of evil. Through their dedication, courage and tremendous sacrifice, we have successfully reduced the operational capabilities of terrorist groups at home and abroad.
“Our forces have relentlessly hunted down and eliminated key terrorist leaders, dismantling their infrastructure and eliminating their prison cells, sending a clear message: Terrorists have no place on our soil. This The war continues and we will draw it to its logical conclusion,” he was quoted as saying in the statement.
Praising the “unwavering determination and unparalleled sacrifice” of the Army and law enforcement agencies, the Army chief said they played a vital role in dismantling terrorist networks and “thwarting their nefarious agenda”.
General Munir also highlighted the “tireless efforts” of local law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety of citizens, thwarting multiple attacks and maintaining peace and order. He stressed that every operation is a testament to “the courage, professionalism and operational readiness of the security forces, who continue to thwart the evolving threats posed by terrorists”.
ISPR said the COAS “made it clear that any attempt to disturb the peace of the country will be met with decisive and overwhelming force”.
“The enemy may try to sow discord and fear, but we will not relent. The hostile elements will be dealt with with an iron fist. They will continue to suffer heavy losses and their ability to inflict harm will be weakened,” the statement quoted him as saying.
ISPR further said that the Army Chief praised the “extraordinary morale” of the troops, adding that they remained “firmly committed” to safeguarding the country's sovereignty. The Army Chief of Staff affirmed that the military and the country's law enforcement agencies are “an indestructible force that resolutely fulfills its mission of protecting the motherland and its people.”
COAS Munir also held meetings with politicians from various parties in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
“The participants reached consensus on the need for a unified political voice and public support to combat the scourge of terrorism. Political representatives vividly and clearly expressed the unwavering support of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies for the country's fight against terrorism and agreed on the need to build a unity that transcends political overtones front against the extremist philosophies of terrorist groups.
There were 444 terrorist attacks in 2024, killing at least 685 security force members, making it the deadliest year for Pakistan's civilian and military security forces in a decade.
Equally shocking are the cumulative losses among civilians and security personnel: 1,612 dead, more than 63 percent of the year's total, and 73 percent more than the 934 outlaws eliminated.
