Pakistan Must Unite to Eradicate Terrorism, Says DG ISPR Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif

Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that Pakistan is fighting a tough battle against terrorism, and the nation must unite to completely eliminate this menace.

Addressing a media briefing in Peshawar, the DG ISPR stated that his visit aimed to pay tribute to the resilient people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for their sacrifices in the war against terror.

He revealed that over 14,500 operations have been conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the number of foreign militants killed this year is higher than in the last decade. “Terrorists and their facilitators were given space under a well-planned design,” he added.

Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif emphasized that the Pakistan Army remains determined to root out terrorism, but this fight requires joint national effort.

He explained that after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, a large cache of weapons fell into the hands of terrorists. “Safe havens exist in Afghanistan, and India continues to back terrorist groups operating against Pakistan,” he said.

The DG ISPR highlighted that the failure to fully implement the National Action Plan (NAP) remains a key reason for the resurgence of terrorism, despite sacrifices by security forces and citizens.

Responding to questions, he remarked:

“If dialogue could solve every issue, then the Battle of Badr would never have been fought. Some evils must be confronted decisively.”

He pointed out that the governance vacuum in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is being filled by the blood of Pakistan’s security forces. “The nexus of political and criminal elements has fueled terrorism in the province,” he added.

Commenting on Afghan refugees, Lt Gen Sharif said Pakistan has hosted them for decades, but the issue is now being politicized. “The decision to repatriate Afghan refugees is a state matter, not a political one,” he clarified.

He warned that those facilitating terrorists have three options:

1. Surrender the terrorists to the state.

2. Join national efforts to eliminate terrorism.

3. Be ready for strict action by the state.

Lt Gen Sharif concluded by saying that Pakistan will take every measure necessary to protect its citizens.

“No one should doubt our resolve. The Pakistan Army, police, and law enforcement agencies will continue to defend the nation at all costs.”