Fight against terrorism is 'paramount', cannot be 'sacrificed at altar of anyone’s politics': army spokesperson

Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, declared on Thursday that the country's fight against terrorism was of "paramount" importance and could not be sacrificed for "anyone's politics". He made these remarks during a press conference aimed at countering claims from India that the Pakistan Army had neutralized an individual linked to its forces in India-occupied Kashmir.

In response to questions about political leaders advocating for negotiations with the Afghan Taliban over terrorism, Chaudhry suggested that different individuals might hold varying perspectives on how to combat the threat. He emphasized that the fight against terrorism was an ongoing struggle and must be won, stating that Pakistan had no alternative but to persevere.

The DG ISPR noted that Pakistan has been the "largest victim" of terrorism, having battled the menace for over two decades and suffering more than 100,000 casualties. He also highlighted the economic costs and damage to the nation's political and social fabric. Chaudhry recalled that the National Action Plan (NAP) had been drafted and revised by political leaders due to the controversy surrounding the counter-terror fight. He urged the political parties to adhere to these consensual documents.

Turning to the question of Indian-sponsored terrorism, Chaudhry emphasized that Pakistan faced an "existential threat" from this source. He asserted that the country's law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, military personnel, and officers were actively engaged in the war against terrorism. However, he questioned the role of other stakeholders, asking why they were not doing more to combat the threat. He suggested that their inaction might indicate cowardice or collusion.

Lastly, Chaudhry clarified that the Pakistani army has no involvement in politics and dismissed any queries related to politics, asserting that politics is the domain of political parties, not the military.