Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir visited Bannu on Saturday, where they participated in a high-level security meeting focused on counter-terrorism operations in the region, security sources confirmed.
During the visit, the Prime Minister and the Army Chief also attended the funeral prayers of 12 martyred soldiers who laid down their lives in the recent South Waziristan operation. Both leaders paid rich tribute to the martyrs, calling their sacrifices a symbol of national pride and resilience.
Speaking at the security briefing, the Prime Minister stated that Pakistan’s response to terrorism will be firm and unapologetic, adding that there is no room for ambiguity in dealing with enemies of the state.
Security officials revealed that the masterminds and facilitators of terrorist attacks inside Pakistan are based in Afghanistan, with India providing support to these groups. The Prime Minister emphasized that Afghanistan has been clearly told to choose between hosting terrorists or maintaining peaceful ties with Pakistan.
He further stated that Afghan nationals have been found involved in several terror incidents, and underscored the urgent need for the eviction of illegal Afghan residents from Pakistan.
Rejecting all political narratives seeking to downplay terrorism or justify talks with militants, the Prime Minister said:
“Anyone advocating understanding with foreign-backed proxies or facilitating them is nothing but their pawn, and will be dealt with accordingly.”
He added that the people of Pakistan, especially those in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stand united with the state and armed forces in resisting Indian-sponsored terrorism.
The Premier also vowed to take immediate administrative and legal measures to further strengthen the country’s counterterrorism capabilities.
Earlier, the Prime Minister and Field Marshal visited CMH Bannu, where they met and inquired about the health of injured soldiers. The Corps Commander Peshawar briefed the leadership in detail on the security situation in the region.
