ISLAMABAD: The government has launched a new counter-terrorism strategy to combat extremist narratives through films, dramas, and digital media. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting on Friday at the Prime Minister’s House, where civil and military leadership, along with representatives from all provinces, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan, discussed the initiative.
Officials emphasized the need to expose those behind the Jaffar Express attack and counter anti-state campaigns on traditional and social media. The meeting decided to use the National Action Plan (NAP) to reinforce the national stance against terrorism. Authorities were directed to develop an effective counter-terrorism strategy, ensuring a strong response to extremist propaganda.
One of the key measures is to prevent the spread of harmful content that threatens national security and social harmony. To achieve this, provincial authorities will work together to improve coordination. Additionally, films and dramas will incorporate patriotic themes to engage the youth and counter radical ideologies.
The counter-terrorism strategy will also focus on digital media. Officials plan to tackle misinformation, including deepfake content, by ensuring that only verified information is disseminated. The government aims to create pro-state narratives to challenge extremist ideologies online.
To strengthen national awareness, terrorism-related education will be integrated into school curriculums. The goal is to educate future generations about the dangers of extremism and how to resist radical influences.
The renewed efforts come amid a surge in terrorist attacks across Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. A recent report from the Global Terrorism Index 2025 ranked Pakistan as the second-most terrorism-affected country in 2024. Previously ranked fourth, the country saw a 45% rise in terrorism-related deaths, increasing from 748 in 2023 to 1,081 in 2024—a sharp global surge.
Earlier this month, the nation witnessed one of the deadliest attacks when militants from the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) targeted the Jaffar Express. The terrorists blew up a railway track and took more than 440 passengers hostage. Security forces launched a complex clearance operation, eliminating 33 attackers and rescuing the hostages.
However, the assault led to devastating losses. A total of 26 passengers were martyred before the security operation could be completed. Among the fallen were 18 security personnel from the Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps (FC), three railway and government officials, and five civilians. Additionally, five security personnel lost their lives during the rescue mission.
With the increasing security challenges, the government remains firm in its counter-terrorism strategy to protect the nation and dismantle extremist propaganda.
