Recent Balochistan attacks won't weaken resolve against terrorism: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicate terrorism, amid declaring that the state would continue its operations until the last terrorist was eliminated and all available resources would be mobilised to restore lasting peace and stability in the country.

Chairing the provincial Apex Committee meeting in Quetta, the prime minister said the recent wave of terrorist attacks in Balochistan, which claimed the lives of security personnel and civilians, would not weaken the state’s determination, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

He paid tribute to the martyrs and praised the sacrifices rendered by the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and innocent citizens in the fight against terrorism.

The prime minister said security forces had neutralised 54 terrorists during recent operations, adding that the campaign against terrorists would continue until the complete elimination of “Fitna al-Khawarij”.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said that hostile elements, particularly Pakistan’s eastern neighbour, were providing financial and military support to terrorist groups, while militants were also launching attacks from Afghan territory. He said there were other external actors involved but refrained from elaborating further.

He stressed that the country’s political and military leadership was united in its commitment to defeat terrorism, saying no effort would be spared in eliminating the menace.

“Enemies of Pakistan want to undermine the country’s growing international stature, diplomatic achievements and recent strategic successes, but their designs will be defeated.”

Announcing the outcome of the meeting, the prime minister said in consultation with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the Government of Balochistan, it had been decided to intensify efforts against terrorist groups and employ every available resource to restore peace across the province and the country.

He offered prayers for the martyrs’ highest ranks in Jannah and patience and fortitude for their families, while expressing confidence that their sacrifices would pave the way for a peaceful Pakistan.

The meeting was attended by Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Governor Balochistan Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, heads of law enforcement agencies, Federal Ministers Ahad Khan Cheema and Attaullah Tarar, and Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah.