ISLAMABAD – The apex committee on Saturday launched “Operation Azm e Istehkam” to fight terrorism and extremism across Pakistan.
The development comes in high-level meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Sharif and attended by armed forces chiefs, federal ministers, chief ministers, and chief secretaries, reached a consensus on the urgent need for this operation.
A statement released after the meeting described Operation ‘Azm e Istehkam’ as a testament to Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to eradicating terrorism and extremism, ensuring stability and security for all citizens. “The fight against terrorism and extremism is crucial for Pakistan’s survival and prosperity,” the Apex committee declared, emphasizing the importance of this national effort.
‘Operation Azm e Istehkam’
Officials also discussed enhancing security protocols for Chinese nationals in Pakistan, the committee emphasized implementing the principles of the National Action Plan, focusing on identifying and addressing any deficiencies.
The committee also announced plans for legislative measures to strengthen the prosecution of terrorism-related cases, affirming a zero-tolerance policy towards any threats to the State’s integrity and stability.
Moving forward, regional cooperation at political and diplomatic levels will be intensified to dismantle terrorist networks and eliminate their operational capabilities, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and security.
During the meeting, PM Sharif stressed that combating terrorism requires a unified national effort, not just reliance on the armed forces. He called for setting aside political differences, framing the struggle as a battle for the nation’s survival.
The premier pushed for legislative reinforcement to bolster security institutions and eliminate legal loopholes that facilitate terrorism. “We must close these legal gaps and combat false propaganda,” he asserted, emphasizing the need to ensure that truth prevails over falsehoods.
PM also highlighted the need for clarity of purpose within political and religious ranks in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing that this is Pakistan’s war to protect future generations. He urged moving forward with consensus and mutual consultation, rising above political differences to achieve their goals.
The Prime Minister noted that a kinetic response alone is not sufficient; non-kinetic measures are also needed to counter terrorist narratives. He stressed the importance of active diplomacy with regional countries to tighten the noose around terrorists.
Sharif condemned those who poison social discourse with divisive rhetoric, labeling such actions as the gravest of crimes. He proposed stringent laws to foster unity and quell divisive forces within society.
“We must enact laws that promote harmony and extinguish hatred,” Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif concluded, calling for concerted efforts to protect the nation from external threats and internal discord.
