Azm-i-Istehkam: Army Leadership Concerned Over Criticism and Misrepresentation

The top military leadership of Pakistan has expressed concern over what it describes as “unwarranted criticism and deliberate misrepresentation” of Operation Azm-i-Istehkam. This operation was announced by the government last month following a meeting of the Central Apex Committee of the National Action Plan. The operation aims to utilize the full spectrum of Pakistan’s military, diplomatic, legislative, and socio-economic resources to combat terrorism and extremism.

Historical Context

Pakistan has faced a significant increase in terrorist activities over the past year, particularly in the regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. This surge followed the termination of a ceasefire by the banned militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan in November 2022. Operation Azm-i-Istehkam is the latest in a series of counterterrorism initiatives by the Pakistan Army, which began in the mid-2000s. Notable past operations include:

• Zarb-i-Azb (2014): Launched by General Raheel Sharif to combat militants in North Waziristan.
• Raddul Fasaad (2017): Initiated under General Qamar Javed Bajwa to eliminate residual terrorist threats.

Current Developments

The announcement of Azm-i-Istehkam has faced significant opposition from various political parties, including PTI, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl, and Awami National Party. The Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa even denied that the operation was discussed during the recent apex committee meeting. In response, the government clarified that Azm-i-Istehkam would not involve large-scale military actions or mass displacement of local populations. An All Parties Conference is being considered to address the issue.

Military’s Stance

A press release from the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) detailed the discussions held during the 265th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) at Rawalpindi’s General Headquarters, led by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir. The military leadership expressed concern over the criticism and misrepresentation of the operation, emphasizing that it aims to synchronize national counter-terrorism efforts for enduring stability and economic prosperity.

The military leadership also highlighted the issue of “politically motivated digital terrorism” aimed at creating despondency and discord through fake news and propaganda. The ISPR assured that both the military and the nation are united against such efforts.

COAS Munir reaffirmed the army’s commitment to national security, professionalism, and operational preparedness. The military also pledged to support socioeconomic growth and assist the government in curbing illegal activities that undermine economic stability.

Regional and International Concerns

The CCC also discussed regional security, particularly in Afghanistan, and reiterated its commitment to regional peace and security. The forum expressed solidarity with Kashmiris and Palestinians, condemning human rights violations and war crimes in Kashmir and Gaza.

Summary

• Operation Azm-i-Istehkam: Aimed at combating terrorism and extremism using Pakistan’s full spectrum of resources.
• Historical Context: Follows a series of counterterrorism operations since the mid-2000s, including Zarb-i-Azb and Raddul Fasaad.
• Opposition: Faced criticism from political parties; government clarified the operation’s scope.
• Military’s Stance: Concern over criticism and misrepresentation; commitment to national security and socioeconomic growth.
• Regional Concerns: Focus on Afghanistan, solidarity with Kashmiris and Palestinians.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the current situation, historical context, and the military’s stance on Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, making it suitable for students preparing for competitive exams.