Lt Gen Chaudhry Clarifies Azm-e-Istehkam Campaign Amid Rising Tensions
Key Points:
Azm-e-Istehkam is not a military operation: Lt Gen Chaudhry emphasizes it’s a comprehensive counter-terrorism campaign.
Digital terrorism on the rise: The army stands against both physical and digital terrorists.
Political controversies: Serious issues like Azm-e-Istehkam are being politicized.
In-Depth Report Azm-e-Istehkam Explained
Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry addressed the nation, clarifying misconceptions surrounding the Azm-e-Istehkam campaign. During a press conference in Rawalpindi, he stressed that this campaign is not a military operation but a holistic counter-terrorism initiative. “Azm-e-Istehkam is a comprehensive and integrated campaign against terrorism, not a military operation per se as it is being presented,” he stated.
Lt Gen Chaudhry highlighted that an Apex Committee meeting on June 22 formulated an anti-terrorism policy with national consensus, emphasizing that no-go areas do not exist and there will be no displacements due to Azm-e-Istehkam. Despite political controversies, he assured that the campaign’s goals would be achieved.
Battling Digital Terrorism
Lt Gen Chaudhry raised concerns about the rise of digital terrorism, noting that social media has become a battleground. “Digital terrorism is being done on social media. The Pak army is standing up against terrorists & digital terrorists. The moment has arrived for the whole nation to rise against them, he declared.
Continuous Operations
Providing statistics, he revealed that the army conducts four to five operations hourly, totaling 22,409 intelligence-based operations this year. These operations have resulted in 31 high-value targets being neutralized, and 137 officers and soldiers have sacrificed their lives.
The Bannu Incident
Addressing the Bannu incident, he recounted how armed personnel opened fire during a peace march, leading to casualties. He emphasized the army’s adherence to SOPs and the provincial government’s responsibility to manage mobs.
TTP Leader’s Audio Leak
When questioned about the TTP leader Noor Wali Mehsud’s audio leak, Lt Gen Chaudhry assured that Pakistan is pursuing the matter. The audio revealed Mehsud directing his men to disrupt peace in Pakistan, highlighting the ongoing threat from the TTP.
TLP Sit-in and Palestine Issue
Lt Gen Chaudhry clarified the establishment’s stance on the recent Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan sit-in, which was resolved peacefully. He reiterated Pakistan’s support for Gaza, condemning the genocide and noting that 1,118 tonnes of aid have been sent to Gaza.
Combating Fake News
He stressed the need for stringent measures to combat the spread of fake news on social media. “The influx of ‘fake news’ targeting the armed forces. He called for penalizing digital terrorists to prevent them from gaining ground.
Conclusion
Lt Gen Chaudhry’s address highlighted the complexities of modern terrorism, encompassing both physical and digital realms. He urged the nation to unite against these threats and support the Azm-e-Istehkam campaign to secure Pakistan’s future
