ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said on Friday that Operation Azm-e-Istehkam is a necessity for the state, not just the military.
In an interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), he stated that despite past military operations, there has been a resurgence of terrorism, making the current operation essential to address recent waves of attacks. Asif clarified that this operation would focus on intelligence gathering rather than displacing people.
Reflecting on the past decade, he attributed the rise in terrorism to various factors, including the withdrawal of NATO and US forces from Afghanistan and the return of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters to the country during Imran Khan’s government.
He expressed disappointment over the lack of cooperation from the Afghan government in combating TTP militants, citing alliances that hindered their efforts.
Following dialogue with the Taliban, the attempt to repatriate approximately 5,000 TTP fighters failed. Those responsible for attacks originating from Afghanistan found safe havens in Pakistan. The government affirmed its commitment to targeting TTP sanctuaries.
Earlier on Friday, in his address to the National Assembly, Asif underscored Pakistan’s evidence of terrorist sanctuaries in Afghanistan, vowing to take defensive measures to protect citizens.
Regarding Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, Asif announced plans to launch it in consultation with political parties and stakeholders to restore peace and stability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. He emphasized the importance of security for economic growth and condemned terrorist activities originating from Afghan territory.
He affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism and promoting regional peace, intending to present a policy to parliament for Operation Azm-e-Istehkam to achieve these goals.
