The Federal Apex Committee has approved a comprehensive military operation against terrorist groups operating in Balochistan, aiming to curb attacks on civilians and foreign nationals that hinder the country’s economic progress. The committee, which met to discuss revitalizing Pakistan’s counter-terrorism campaign, focused on addressing security issues and the rise in attacks targeting security forces in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting, which included federal and provincial cabinet members, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), and senior government officials. The military operation will target banned groups such as BLA, Majeed Brigade, Balochistan Liberation Front, and Balochistan Raaji Ajoi-R-Sangar.
During the session, the committee discussed the evolving security situation and the steps needed to counter terrorism, sub-nationalism, religious extremism, and other related challenges. The need for a unified political stance and national consensus was emphasized for effectively tackling these issues. Additionally, the committee agreed to strengthen the National Counter-Terrorism Authority and establish intelligence fusion centers at the national and provincial levels.
PM Shehbaz linked the country’s economic and political stability to the eradication of terrorism, urging all political leaders to support efforts for overcoming the nation’s economic challenges. He highlighted the importance of maintaining unity and coordination across federal and provincial governments to ensure the successful implementation of the counter-terrorism campaign.
The Prime Minister also addressed the need to broaden the tax base and reduce economic leakages to achieve financial stability, which he believes is essential for Pakistan’s progress. He warned that without a united effort to eliminate terrorism, the country’s political and economic stability would be at risk. The Prime Minister also urged political leaders to reconsider calls for political sit-ins, emphasizing the importance of rational decision-making for the nation’s future.
