ISLAMABAD:A key civil and military meeting on Friday committed to intensifying efforts to combat terrorism in Pakistan, with a firm stance against the threat of “Fitna al-Khawraj.” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presided over the Apex Committee of the National Action Plan (NAP) meeting, addressing the recent rise in terrorist incidents and growing tensions with neighboring Afghanistan.
Attended by provincial chief ministers, senior security officials, and military leaders, the session focused on the escalating terrorist attacks, particularly in 2024, marking the most violent period since the peak of the war on terror in 2014. The worsening security situation has been attributed to the return of the Afghan Taliban to power in August 2021.
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan heightened last week after Kabul accused Pakistan of conducting airstrikes targeting Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts along the border. The situation worsened with heavy border exchanges between Afghan Taliban forces and Pakistan, although diplomatic channels have since been activated, easing hostilities.
Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to completely eradicating extremism, stressing the necessity for a unified societal effort to combat terrorism for the nation’s progress. He emphasized the importance of curbing anti-Pakistan narratives on social media, revealing that those behind conspiracies against Pakistan are well known. The prime minister vowed that the sacrifices of Pakistan’s soldiers will not be in vain.
The meeting also saw discussions on Pakistan’s role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the nation’s ongoing diplomatic efforts. Sharif recognized the achievement and praised the work of the foreign ministry team in securing the position. He also assured that Pakistan would fulfill its international diplomatic responsibilities to promote global peace.
In terms of domestic security, the prime minister highlighted efforts to strengthen Counter-Terrorism Departments (CTDs), particularly in Punjab, and emphasized the importance of modernizing police forces with advanced training, technology, and tools. He stressed that federal, provincial, and defense institutions must collaborate closely to eliminate extremism and maintain law and order.
Sharif condemned cross-border attacks and the external support fueling anti-state activities in Balochistan, asserting that Pakistan’s development and prosperity depend on improving security across all regions, including Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Reiterating the urgency of eliminating extremism, the prime minister emphasized that national interests must take precedence over personal agendas. He also voiced concerns over the increasing anti-Pakistan propaganda on digital platforms, where misinformation is being spread to damage Pakistan’s reputation.
Finally, Sharif expressed sorrow over the false narratives surrounding the sacrifices of Rangers personnel during the recent Islamabad assault, reaffirming that the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies will be honored, and the nation’s resilience remains rooted in these sacrifices. He urged all stakeholders to unite to eliminate extremism and lead Pakistan toward lasting progress and prosperity.
