RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has pledged that the Pakistan Army, along with law enforcement agencies (LEAs), remains steadfast in eradicating terrorism in all forms. He assured that efforts would continue until lasting peace and stability are restored across the country, according to the military’s media wing.
The army chief made these remarks during his visit to Wana in South Waziristan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) reported on Sunday. He was welcomed in Wana by the Corps Commander Peshawar.
During his visit, General Munir received a detailed briefing on the current security situation and ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
While interacting with officers and troops, the COAS praised their resilience and determination in the fight against terrorism. He highlighted the nation’s pride in their sacrifices and declared that the martyrs of Pakistan are the country’s pride. Their sacrifices, he stated, would never be forgotten.
The army chief emphasized that the courage and steadfastness of Pakistan’s Armed Forces are the foundation of the nation’s sovereignty. He described the soldiers of the armed forces and LEAs as the true heroes of Pakistan. Their bravery and selfless service, he said, inspire the entire nation.
General Munir reiterated the Army’s commitment to pursuing the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), now called Fitna Al Khwarij. He assured that these terrorists, along with their facilitators, supporters, and financiers, would face justice for their actions against the state.
The visit followed a tragic incident where sixteen Pakistan Army soldiers were martyred while repelling a terrorist attack in South Waziristan. The attack occurred on the night between December 20 and 21. A group of terrorists tried to assault a security check post in the Makeen area.
According to the ISPR, the troops successfully thwarted the attack. Eight terrorists, referred to as “khwarij,” were killed during the intense exchange of fire. Unfortunately, sixteen brave soldiers lost their lives while fighting valiantly.
Pakistan has been grappling with an upsurge in terrorist attacks in recent months. The third quarter of the year witnessed a 90% increase in violence, as noted in a report by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS).
The report revealed that 722 people were killed, and 615 others were injured in 328 incidents between July and September. The majority of these fatalities occurred in KP and Balochistan, accounting for 97% of the total. This marked the highest percentage of fatalities in a decade.
So far, fatalities from the first three quarters of 2024 have exceeded the total for 2023. At least 1,534 people lost their lives in the first nine months of the year, compared to 1,523 fatalities in 2023.
Pakistan remains determined to counter terrorism and restore peace, as reaffirmed by General Asim Munir during his visit. The sacrifices of the armed forces continue to inspire hope for a safer future.
