RAWALPINDI (The Thursday Times) — Security sources have clarified that no final decision has yet been taken regarding Pakistan’s possible participation in any international stabilisation force. According to the briefing, if a decision is made in the future, it will be carried out strictly through constitutional procedures via Parliament and will be aligned with Pakistan’s global, diplomatic and national interests.
The security briefing expressed firm unanimity on the point that Pakistan would not take any step that harms the Palestinian people or runs counter to their interests. Two positions were stated with complete clarity. First, Pakistan will not make any decision that goes against the interests of the Palestinian people. Second, Pakistan will not become part of any campaign or alliance whose objective is to disarm Hamas.
Sources recalled that the policy of dismantling the nexus between terrorism, crime and political collusion was first outlined in the National Action Plan, which was unanimously approved in 2014 by all provincial governments and political parties. The National Action Plan was described as a workable and comprehensive framework, and its effective implementation was termed the only sustainable path to eradicating terrorism, crime and political collusion.
According to the briefing, consistent and coordinated enforcement of the National Action Plan in Punjab and Sindh has led to a marked reduction in terrorism and criminal activity. In Balochistan, serious efforts over recent months have also resulted in a significant decline in terrorism and smuggling. Security sources said similar expectations now rest with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to ensure the same level of commitment in implementing the National Action Plan.
The briefing further stated that a large contingent of the Pakistan Army remains deployed along the western border and adjoining regions, while troops are also continuously stationed along the Line of Control in Kashmir. Sources said that the Field Marshal and the military leadership had taken a strategic decision to respond decisively to India without withdrawing troops from these fronts, and that, by the grace of God, this objective was achieved.
Security sources said that during the “Marka e Haq”, the Government of Pakistan, all of the state institutions and the public demonstrated extraordinary unity and resolve, achieving a decisive outcome within three days. During this period, Fitna al Hindustan carried out thirty-three terrorist attacks in Balochistan with the aim of drawing Pakistan into instability on its western border and creating internal disorder. The Pakistan Army, however thwarted the enemy on every front.
Sources added that three years ago, Field Marshal Asim Munir had referred to the terrorists as “Khawarij” while addressing police personnel in Peshawar and had cited references from the Qur’an and Hadith in support of this characterisation. Today, the entire country recognises these elements as Fitna al Khawarij, a development described as a major national victory on the narrative front.
The briefing warned that anyone who supports Fitna al Khawarij or attempts to facilitate them would be deemed to be standing against the state of Pakistan and would be dealt with using an iron hand.
It was also emphasised that Pakistan is a responsible state whose decisions are not made in haste. Pakistan’s strategic patience, political and diplomatic wisdom, and the presence of experienced politicians and bureaucrats with a deep understanding of global politics were described as guarantees that every decision is taken in the national interest and in line with shifting global trends.
Sources reminded that despite numerous obstacles, Pakistan completed its nuclear programme, established its missile systems, maintained positive representation at regional and global forums, and built relationships with all major world powers on the basis of equality. Pakistan, they stressed, always prioritises the protection of its national and public interests.
On Afghanistan, security sources said Pakistan had consistently pursued a policy of patience and tolerance with various Afghan groups and governments, maintaining contacts with whoever was in power in Kabul. After the Doha Agreement, Pakistan had expected a positive and cooperative response from the Afghan interim authorities, but this expectation was unfortunately not fulfilled.
According to the briefing, Afghan soil was allowed to be used by Fitna al Khawarij for terrorist operations against Pakistan, where they were given a permissive environment to reorganise, receive training and carry out attacks. The situation was described as deeply concerning, and it was reiterated that Pakistan would not compromise on its sovereignty or the protection of its people.
