Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, has warned that any attempt to create a situation resembling the May 9 unrest will be dealt with through decisive force and the rule of law, without hesitation or discrimination.
The warning came during the 277th Corps Commanders Conference at General Headquarters, where the military leadership reviewed Pakistan’s prevailing security environment and underscored internal stability as a critical national priority.
The forum resolved that any attempt to trigger violent agitation or recreate May 9-like circumstances, regardless of the pretext, would be dealt with decisively under the law.
The commanders also emphasized that preserving internal stability requires a broader approach extending beyond kinetic counterterrorism operations. They called for people-centric governance at the grassroots level, effective engagement with the public, stronger police capacity and measures to dismantle the terror-crime nexus operating under the patronage of vested interests.
The forum appreciated the sustained intelligence-based counterterrorism operations by law-enforcement agencies and stressed that such efforts must be complemented by effective administrative and governance measures.
The commanders further emphasized the need for effective communication with the public on the causes and mechanisms of terrorism and for strengthening the national narrative against extremist violence.
At the conference, the forum offered Fateha for the martyrs of the Armed Forces, law-enforcement agencies and civil society who laid down their lives in defence of the country, while paying rich tribute to their sacrifices.
The forum also reaffirmed Pakistan’s right to self-defence and targeted action against terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, holding the Taliban leadership responsible for the consequences of facilitating terrorism.
In his concluding remarks, Field Marshal Asim Munir directed formations to continue strengthening intelligence-based operations and enhance combat capabilities through modern technology, training and integration across all domains of warfare.
He commended the formations for their operational preparedness and professionalism and expressed confidence that the Armed Forces, with the unwavering support of the nation, remain fully prepared to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
The conference also welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the security and sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain.
The forum reiterated Pakistan’s position that the Kashmir dispute should be resolved in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
