ISLAMABAD:
The government’s stance on counter-terrorism has sparked internal discussions, as PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui reaffirmed on Saturday that military intervention remains an option if deemed necessary. His statement comes just days after the interior ministry dismissed the possibility of launching a fresh military operation against terrorism.
While clarifying that no large-scale operation is currently underway, Siddiqui emphasized that the state holds the right to take decisive action whenever required to combat terrorism. He stressed that militants cannot be allowed to act with impunity, threatening innocent lives without facing repercussions.
Siddiqui’s remarks follow a statement from Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, who categorically denied any discussions on a new military campaign during a recent high-level security meeting—the Parliamentary Committee on National Security. The session, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the army chief, instead focused on enforcing Azm-e-Istehkam and the National Action Plan (NAP) to curb terrorism.
Chaudhry’s statement was widely seen as a rebuttal to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, who reportedly opposed the idea of any new offensive in the province.
Senator Siddiqui Criticizes K-P Leadership
On Saturday, Senator Siddiqui accused K-P CM Gandapur of fostering an environment conducive to terrorism.
“Can our armed forces wait for Gandapur’s approval if, God forbid, an attack originates from our western borders?” Siddiqui questioned while speaking on a private TV channel.
He further alleged that former Prime Minister Imran Khan, in collaboration with the previous military leadership, facilitated the return of militants from Afghanistan and resettled them within Pakistan, creating a major security challenge.
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Defining the “Hard State” Approach
Addressing the notion of a “hard state” mentioned by the army chief in the security meeting, Siddiqui explained that it refers to the state’s unwavering stance against terrorism. He stated that individuals involved in terror activities, along with their supporters and those who glorify them on social media, will face strict consequences.
“The army chief has articulated the sentiments of the entire nation with this stance,” he asserted.
Expressing disappointment over past leniency, Siddiqui recalled the events of May 9, lamenting that despite the severity of the incidents, the state adopted a soft approach. “In any other country, those responsible for such acts would have faced swift and strict consequences,” he remarked.
Condemnation of the Jaffar Express Hijacking
Senator Siddiqui denounced the Jaffar Express hijacking as a brutal act of terrorism that was condemned globally, including by the United Nations Security Council. He noted that no one classified the incident as a nationalist struggle or a fight for fundamental rights—rather, it was universally recognized as terrorism.
However, he regretted that certain political leaders and their allied media outlets ran propaganda campaigns in support of terrorists while attempting to fuel hostility against the armed forces conducting anti-terror operations.
Concerns Over Governance in K-P and Balochistan
Regarding governance issues, Siddiqui pointed out that criticism was directed at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, where over 90% of terrorist incidents have occurred. He recalled that, during the security briefing, the army chief questioned how long the governance gap would continue to be filled with the blood of martyrs.
FAQs
What did Senator Irfan Siddiqui say about military operations?
He stated that while no major military operation is currently planned, the government retains the option to act decisively against terrorism when necessary.Did the government discuss a new military offensive against terrorism?
No, according to Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, no such operation was discussed in the recent Parliamentary Committee on National Security meeting.Why is K-P CM Ali Amin Gandapur’s stance controversial?
Gandapur reportedly opposed a military offensive in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, leading to criticism that his policies could turn the province into a safe haven for terrorists.What is the concept of a “hard state” as mentioned by the army chief?
It refers to the state’s firm approach against terrorism, ensuring that terrorists and their supporters face strict consequences without leniency.Why was the Jaffar Express hijacking significant?
The attack was widely condemned as a terrorist act, including by the United Nations Security Council, and highlighted the urgent need for stronger counter-terrorism measures.
