THE horrifying incident in Nushki, where unidentified militants mercilessly gunned down innocent passengers, underscores a disturbing reality: terrorism continues to plague Pakistan. The brutality of such acts defies comprehension. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s has strongly condemned the incident. However, words alone cannot heal the wounds inflicted by such senseless violence. Action is imperative, now more than ever.
According to recent reports, our country has already endured 245 terror attacks in the first quarter of 2024, resulting in a staggering toll of 432 fatalities and 370 injuries. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces, both bordering Afghanistan, accounted for over 92% of all fatalities and 86% of attacks (including incidents of terrorism and security forces operations) during this period. In the first quarter, Balochistan recorded a staggering 96% surge in violence, with fatalities jumping to 178 from 91 in the last quarter of 2023. Our enemy is targeting the province to sabotage CPEC and we need to do the needful to foil its nefarious designs. It is crucial to recognize and honour the sacrifices made by our security personnel in the fight against terrorism. Their courage and dedication in the face of adversity deserve our utmost respect and gratitude. However, we also need to reflect on the shortcomings in our counterterrorism efforts. Enhanced coordination among intelligence agencies is indispensable to pre-empt and neutralize terror threats. NACTA, tasked with this vital responsibility, must fulfil its mandate efficiently. Strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms and bolstering collaborative efforts among security agencies are imperative steps towards achieving this goal. Furthermore, the international community’s support and cooperation are indispensable in combating terrorism. Pakistan has been a victim of terrorism for far too long, and it is time for concerted global action against terrorist facilitators and sponsors. The world must unite in holding accountable those who provide sanctuary, funding and ideological support to terrorist organizations.
