A ‘massive, illegal political mafia’ in the country was trying to sabotage the state’s Azm-i-Istehkam (Resolve for Stability) operation to fulfill its vested interests, says DG ISPR, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif.
- Military spokesperson, DG ISPR, held a press conference to clarify the army’s stance amid rising “organized propaganda” against the armed forces.
- DG ISPR, Lt Gen Sharif addressed concerns about displacement due to the counter-terrorism operation, Azm-i-Istehkam, emphasizing its comprehensive nature and national consensus.
- Federal government approved the operation to counter a rise in terrorist attacks, especially after TTP ended its ceasefire in November 2022.
- Operation aims to reinvigorate the National Action Plan (NAP), not displace people.
- Lt Gen Sharif claimed a “massive, illegal, political mafia” is trying to sabotage the operation with false arguments.
- A “strong lobby” with financial interests opposes the NAP’s success.
- Ongoing kinetic operations are proceeding well, but issues remain with other NAP points, such as provincial Counter-Terrorism Departments and religious seminaries’ registration.
- Lt Gen Sharif emphasized the importance of ending the “illegal spectrum” that supports criminal systems and terrorism.
- Proper implementation of Azm-i-Istehkam would eliminate terrorism and lead to societal uplift.
- Addressed recent violence during a peace rally in Bannu, linking it to a terrorist attack on Bannu Cantonment.
- Explained negative elements joined the rally, causing violence, and the army responded according to standard procedures.
- Criticized leniency of the legal and judicial system towards May 9 perpetrators, leading to increased discord and mob mentality.
- Riot control and law and order are provincial responsibilities, not the military’s.
- Addressed the TLP sit-in issue, emphasizing the government’s efforts to resolve it through dialogue due to its sensitivity regarding Palestine.
- Condemned “digital terrorism” on social media, equating it to regular terrorism using tools like cell phones and propaganda.
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Courtesy: Dawn