The National Security Council (NSC) in Pakistan has announced a renewed and comprehensive operation to combat terrorism, with the relaunch of the National Action Plan (NAP) within 15 days.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the 41st meeting of the NSC, attended by heads of the armed forces, intelligence services, and other high-ranking military and civilian officials, and made the decision.
The NSC emphasized the need for efforts at the political, diplomatic, security, economic, and social levels to eliminate terrorism in all its forms. The council reiterated its commitment to thwarting the schemes of Pakistan’s adversaries and protecting the nation’s peace and stability.
Previous government policies against militant groups allowed terrorists to return without restrictions, resulting in the recent surge of terrorist attacks in Pakistan. Moreover, the government released dangerous TTP members from jail to foster trust.
The Pakistan Institute of Peace Studies (PIPS) in Islamabad reported that terrorist attacks in Pakistan increased by 27% in 2022 compared to 2021, resulting in 419 fatalities and 734 injuries. The News International reports that between January and March, 127 police personnel lost their lives in incidents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
Pakistani officials have accused the Taliban leadership in Kabul of aiding Pakistan’s anti-elements and failing to take action against their bases in Afghanistan. However, the Taliban government denies these allegations, stating that their security forces will not permit any organization to use Afghan territory against other countries.
Pakistan aims to counter these threats through a comprehensive and coordinated effort with the relaunched NAP. It is committed to ending terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens with increased vigor.