RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s security forces have significantly intensified their counterterrorism campaign, carrying out more than 40,000 intelligence-based operations nationwide as part of an aggressive strategy to eliminate militant networks. Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, said there would be no leniency for terrorists, declaring that they would either surrender or be eliminated.
During a comprehensive media briefing in Rawalpindi, the military spokesperson outlined the country’s security landscape, focusing on counterterrorism efforts, the situation in Balochistan, the issue of missing persons, and regional security challenges.
Over 40,000 Intelligence-Based Operations Conducted
The DG ISPR revealed that security forces have conducted more than 40,000 intelligence-based operations across Pakistan. Of these, over 31,000 operations were carried out in Balochistan, more than 7,000 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and 2,091 in other parts of the country.
He said these operations resulted in the elimination of 2,084 terrorists, reflecting Pakistan’s continued resolve to dismantle militant networks and strengthen national security.
Terrorist Violence and Security Response
According to Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Pakistan has witnessed 28 bomb blasts this year. He stated that most of these attacks involved Afghan nationals and resulted in the deaths of 819 people, including 322 civilians and 303 security personnel.
He said the rise in terrorist incidents is a reaction to the increasing pressure being placed on militant groups through sustained intelligence-based operations.
“There will be no leniency against terrorists. They will either surrender or be eliminated,” the DG ISPR said.
Criticism of Afghan Taliban and Regional Terror Networks
The military spokesperson accused the Afghan Taliban regime of providing support to terrorist groups operating against Pakistan. He claimed terrorism had become a profitable enterprise for those backing militant organizations.
He also alleged that anti-Pakistan groups operating from across the border share common objectives aimed at destabilizing the country. According to the DG ISPR, following the failure of conventional strategies against Pakistan, hostile elements have shifted their focus toward creating instability in Balochistan through violence and propaganda.
Balochistan Development and Public Engagement
Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said the government is committed to engaging directly with the people of Balochistan rather than relying solely on traditional tribal leadership.
He alleged that certain influential groups have resisted reforms that would improve education, governance, and development in the province. He further claimed that criminal activities, including smuggling, have been used to protect vested interests and that violence is often threatened when illegal operations are challenged.
Update on Missing Persons Cases
Addressing the issue of missing persons, the DG ISPR said the government’s Commission of Inquiry has received 10,900 cases, with 9,372 cases already resolved.
According to the figures shared during the briefing:
- 4,896 individuals returned to their families.
- 1,360 people were found to be in prisons or detention centers.
- Around 300 individuals had died.
- Nearly 2,400 cases did not meet the legal definition of missing persons.
He added that 2,900 complaints originated from Balochistan, with approximately 2,700 cases identified and processed. He claimed that some individuals reported as missing were later found to have died while fighting alongside militant organizations in terrorist incidents.
Constitution and the Concept of a “Hard State”
Explaining the concept of a “hard state,” the DG ISPR said it refers to a country where laws are enforced equally and state institutions operate strictly under the Constitution.
He emphasized that Article 5 of the Constitution requires every citizen’s primary loyalty to be to Pakistan. He added that while citizens enjoy constitutional rights, they also have responsibilities toward the state, stressing that national unity and respect for the rule of law remain essential for Pakistan’s stability.
