Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a strong warning against what he described as a “fitna” (sedition) targeting Pakistan’s military and national unity, vowing to eradicate terrorism and counter online anti-state propaganda fueled by individuals both within and outside the country.
Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister praised the sacrifices made by the Pakistan Army in the fight against terrorism, singling out the martyrdom of Major Adnan Aslam who was killed while combating insurgents. “His father is proud, and his sisters have declared they too are ready to lay down their lives,” Shehbaz said, calling it a reflection of the nation’s resilience.
“Our security forces have written a history of sacrifice. We breathe in freedom today because of them,” the premier stated emotionally. He emphasized that it is the nation’s duty to remain grateful to its martyrs and to protect the dignity of the armed forces.
Lashing out at those spreading propaganda, Shehbaz warned, “Some people, especially on social media and abroad, are engaged in dangerous propaganda against the state and its institutions. These individuals are maligning Pakistan Army leadership—this venom must be condemned in the strongest terms.”
Reaffirming his commitment to eliminate terrorism from its roots, Shehbaz declared that “the hate narrative is unacceptable,” and stressed that the state would go to any extent necessary to defeat extremism.
On the foreign policy front, Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to balancing relations between the United States and China. “We have signed MoUs with American mining firms to explore untapped mineral wealth in Balochistan, Chitral, and Gilgit-Baltistan,” he said, while also calling his recent visit to China “highly successful,” particularly for strategic and business cooperation.
Domestically, the Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the widespread destruction caused by floods across Punjab, which are now moving toward Sindh. He ordered immediate assessments of the damage and warned that national development projects cannot afford delays.
Turning to international issues, Shehbaz condemned Israeli actions in Qatar and Gaza, calling them “historic acts of barbarity.” He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Qatar and Palestine, stating, “We stand by them in these difficult times.”
The Prime Minister’s remarks come at a time of rising internal tensions, growing anti-establishment narratives online, and regional instability—highlighting the dual challenge Pakistan faces: defeating terrorism and maintaining institutional integrity amidst external and internal pressure.
