DG ISPR: An Individual’s Actions Pose Direct Threat to National Security

Director General ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has said that nothing is above the State of Pakistan, adding that a particular political figure has begun to consider himself equal to the state by promoting the mindset of “if not me, then no one.”

Opening the press conference, he congratulated the nation on the appointment of the Chief of Defence Forces and confirmed that the CDF Headquarters has officially started functioning after years of planning.

He stated that the purpose of the briefing was to highlight internal national security challenges, emphasizing that one political individual has now emerged as a direct national security threat due to his actions and rhetoric.

The DG ISPR reiterated that the Pakistan Army is an apolitical institution and maintains strict neutrality, but if anyone attacks the army under the cover of politics, a firm response will be given.

He said the armed forces respect all political leaders and parties, but no one will be allowed to create divisions between the people and the military.

Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif added that the armed forces do not belong to an elite class; they come from middle and lower-middle-class backgrounds, which is why baseless attacks against the institution will not be tolerated.

He expressed concern over coordinated propaganda campaigns orchestrated through social media and external hostile elements, stating that such efforts are aimed at weakening national institutions.

The DG ISPR explained that although freedom of speech is fundamental, the Constitution does not permit speech that endangers national security or targets the armed forces.

He said that whenever this particular individual issues statements, Indian media, foreign troll accounts, and even Afghan social media amplify the narrative in a synchronized manner.

He recalled that the same person was linked with the events of May 9, and today he continues to target the military leadership in a way that benefits anti-Pakistan forces.

Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif said political issues can be debated openly, but dragging the army into political controversies is unacceptable. Instead of discussing real national challenges, certain groups are spreading propaganda against state institutions.

He stated that proposing negotiations with terrorists goes against the national security doctrine. The Pakistan Army has a clear policy on dealing with external and internal threats and will not allow anyone to empower hostile elements.