RAWALPINDI: Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, reaffirmed the Pakistan Armed Forces’ unwavering stance on the May 9 violence during a press conference held on Friday. He described the events as not just an affront to the military but also to the sentiments of the entire nation.
May 9 Violence: A National Concern
Addressing the press, the DG ISPR highlighted that the attacks carried out on May 9, 2023, represented a severe challenge to Pakistan’s societal fabric. “If armed groups impose their will without lawful intervention, it endangers the fabric of society,” Lt. General Chaudhry emphasized.
Following judicial directives, specific cases stemming from the May 9 violence were transferred to military courts. Individuals involved in these incidents were prosecuted and sentenced under the law. The military courts, he noted, ensured due legal process in these cases.
Operations Against Terrorism in 2024
The Pakistan Armed Forces have intensified their fight against terrorism, with Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry reporting the elimination of 925 terrorists this year. These figures include 73 high-profile targets. Security forces conducted 59,775 successful operations nationwide, which also resulted in the apprehension of hundreds of militants and the seizure of significant caches of weapons and ammunition.
“Pakistan has waged a long and arduous war against terrorism, with the armed forces making significant sacrifices in this fight,” he remarked, reiterating the military’s steadfast commitment to ensuring national security.
Cross-Border Terrorism from Afghanistan
Lt. General Chaudhry expressed concern over terrorist factions operating from Afghan soil, including the group ‘Fitna al-Khawarij.’ These factions have actively targeted Pakistan, but the armed forces remain resolute in defending the nation and its borders.
He recalled the government’s sincere efforts to foster peace in Afghanistan but lamented that the situation has not improved. Referring to past policies, he criticized decisions made in 2021 that allowed extremist groups room to regroup. “We broke the back of Khawarij elements in 2021,” he said, but added that the consequences of those decisions are now being borne by the nation, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Challenges on the Eastern Front
Turning to the eastern border, the DG ISPR said Pakistan remains fully aware of the threats posed by Indian aggression. He cited 25 ceasefire violations and 525 incidents of firing along the Line of Control (LoC) this year alone.
He accused India of conducting false flag operations to divert attention from its internal issues, while its intelligence agency, RAW, has actively spread negative propaganda against Pakistan. Lt. General Chaudhry condemned ongoing human rights violations in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, including illegal operations leading to the martyrdom of innocent Kashmiris.
Highlighting the Supreme Court of India’s decision to revoke Kashmir’s special status, he termed it a violation of international legal norms. “Kashmiris await global intervention for their right to self-determination,” he asserted.
Military’s Role in Disaster Relief and National Defense
The DG ISPR also praised the armed forces’ role in disaster management and relief efforts during natural calamities. “Pakistan’s military stands ready to make any sacrifice for the country’s defense,” he emphasized.
Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry’s address underscored the multifaceted challenges facing Pakistan and the military’s pivotal role in addressing them. From counter-terrorism to border security and humanitarian assistance, the Pakistan Armed Forces remain steadfast in their mission to protect the nation.
