In a significant move, the government of Pakistan, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has announced the launch of a national dialogue centered around a new anti-terror operation named Azm-e-Istehkam, which translates to “Resolve for Stability” in Urdu. This operation aims to address and eliminate terrorism and extremism within the country, reflecting the government’s commitment to enhancing national security and stability.
The primary objective of Azm-e-Istehkam is to counter the recent surge in violent attacks in Pakistan, a situation that has been exacerbated by the Taliban’s takeover in Afghanistan. The operation is designed to address domestic security threats, particularly those posed by armed fighters crossing the border from Afghanistan. The increasing tensions between Islamabad and the Taliban rulers in Kabul have made this a pressing concern. By launching this operation, the Pakistani government aims to fortify its borders, dismantle terror networks, and eliminate extremist elements that threaten the peace and security of the nation.
Recognizing the critical nature of this operation, the government has decided to initiate a national dialogue to garner widespread support and consensus. This dialogue comes in response to reservations expressed by opposition parties regarding the operation. The aim is to involve all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, and security experts, in a comprehensive discussion about the strategies and measures needed to effectively combat terrorism and extremism in Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken the initiative to brief cabinet members on the scope and rationale behind launching Azm-e-Istehkam. The government is also planning to convene an all-parties conference (APC) to foster a collective agreement on the anti-terror drive. This APC will serve as a platform for political leaders to voice their concerns, suggest improvements, and ultimately support the unified goal of eradicating terrorism from Pakistan.
The decision to launch a national dialogue and convene an APC underscores the government’s recognition of the importance of a united front in the fight against terrorism. Building consensus among all political parties and stakeholders is crucial for the success of Azm-e-Istehkam. The dialogue aims to address the reservations and concerns of opposition parties, ensuring that the operation is perceived as a national priority rather than a politically motivated endeavor.
Prime Minister Sharif’s approach is inclusive, seeking to engage all relevant parties in meaningful discussions about the operation’s objectives, strategies, and expected outcomes. By fostering a collaborative environment, the government hopes to mitigate political polarization and enhance the effectiveness of its anti-terror efforts.
Azm-e-Istehkam is strategically significant given the current geopolitical landscape. The Taliban’s control over Afghanistan has resulted in increased security challenges for Pakistan, including the infiltration of militants across the border and the resurgence of extremist activities. The operation is designed to strengthen Pakistan’s internal security apparatus and improve its capability to respond to these threats.
The operation also reflects Pakistan’s broader security strategy, which involves not only military action but also socio-economic measures to address the root causes of extremism. By combining security operations with developmental initiatives, the government aims to create a sustainable environment for peace and stability.
While the launch of Azm-e-Istehkam and the accompanying national dialogue are positive steps, the government faces several challenges. The effectiveness of the operation will depend on the seamless coordination between various security agencies, the adequacy of resources allocated, and the level of support from the international community. Moreover, the government must ensure that human rights are respected and that efforts to combat terrorism do not result in collateral damage or unjust targeting of innocent civilians.
Public expectations are high, and there is a strong desire for the government to deliver tangible results. The success of the national dialogue will be measured by its ability to achieve consensus and its impact on the ground. Transparent communication and accountability will be key to maintaining public trust and support for the operation.
The launch of Azm-e-Istehkam and the decision to initiate a national dialogue mark a significant step in Pakistan’s ongoing battle against terrorism and extremism. By seeking to build consensus among all political parties and stakeholders, the government aims to ensure that the operation is comprehensive, inclusive, and effective. As Pakistan navigates the complexities of its security challenges, the success of Azm-e-Istehkam will depend on sustained political will, strategic coordination, and the active engagement of all segments of society.
