Pakistan has announced plans to initiate a large-scale military operation against militant groups in Balochistan, the country’s volatile southwestern province. The decision, taken after a series of deadly attacks in the region, comes as part of a broader strategy to tackle rising insurgency and security challenges.
On Tuesday, the Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan approved the operation, which will target several militant groups operating in the area, including the Majeed Brigade, the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), the Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), and the Balochistan Raaji Anjou-R-Sanger (BRAS). These organisations have been accused of perpetrating violent attacks on both civilians and foreign nationals, destabilising the region and undermining Pakistan’s economic progress. Officials allege that these groups are operating under the influence of hostile foreign powers, seeking to create insecurity in the region.
The meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, saw the participation of key civil and military officials, including Army Chief General Asim Munir. The primary focus was on the reinvigoration of Pakistan’s Counter Terrorism (CT) Campaign. According to a statement released following the meeting, the committee was briefed on the current security situation and reviewed the various measures already in place to combat terrorism, sub-nationalism, religious extremism, and the growing crime-terror nexus.
During the discussions, it was stressed that a unified political stance and national consensus were essential to effectively tackling the multiple threats facing the country. In light of this, the committee called for a cohesive approach that brings together all political parties, security agencies, and institutions to address terrorism and other emerging security challenges.
In line with these objectives, it was decided that the National Counterterrorism Agency (NACTA) would be revitalised to enhance its effectiveness. The establishment of National and Provincial Intelligence Fusion and Threat Assessment Centres was also agreed upon, to streamline intelligence sharing and strengthen the overall counterterrorism framework.
The operation will be a multifaceted effort, with a focus on military, political, and socio-economic dimensions. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration between federal and provincial governments, as well as relevant institutions and ministries, to ensure the seamless implementation of counterterrorism measures. To ensure effective coordination, the government has also proposed the creation of district-level coordination committees under the Provincial Apex Committees.
The government is also placing particular emphasis on dismantling the “illegal spectrum” and the crime-terror nexus, which has been cited as a critical factor contributing to the ongoing instability in the region. The Prime Minister’s office reiterated its commitment to securing Pakistan’s sovereignty and providing citizens with the protection they need to maintain economic and social stability.
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At the conclusion of the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif called for swift and decisive action to implement the outlined initiatives. He stressed the need for sustained, coordinated efforts from all stakeholders, including the military, political leadership, and civil institutions, to restore peace in Balochistan and eliminate the militant groups operating in the area.
General Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff, reinforced the Pakistan Army’s unwavering commitment to the operation, vowing to eliminate any and all threats to national security. He assured that the military would continue to support the government’s efforts in ensuring the safety and security of the Pakistani people.
This comprehensive operation is expected to not only target militant groups but also focus on a broader range of security challenges, including the suppression of extremist ideologies, illegal arms trafficking, and the dismantling of criminal networks.
While the military’s involvement will be key in combating armed groups, the success of the operation will also depend on political cooperation and long-term socio-economic reforms aimed at addressing the underlying grievances that fuel militancy in Balochistan. As Pakistan faces a crucial period in its fight against insurgency, the government’s coordinated approach is seen as a vital step towards restoring peace and stability in the region.
