Army's top brass warns of 'decisive force' against any 'May 9-like situation'

The army's top leaders cautioned on Friday that any efforts to incite unrest or a "May 9-like scenario" would face a "decisive force" response, according to the military's media branch. This statement was made during the 277th Corps Commanders' Conference in Rawalpindi, which was chaired by Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.

The forum emphasized the need for internal stability and agreed that any attempt to incite agitation or create a "May 9-like situation" would be handled "decisively and without discrimination," as stated by the Inter-Services Public Relations. The warning follows the PTI's preparations for a long march to Islamabad, aimed at securing the release of former Prime Minister and party founder Imran Khan.

Originally planned for September 27, the protest has been rescheduled for October 4. The party is currently discussing terms with the government regarding the march. The PTI's leader was arrested on May 9, 2023, an event that sparked nationwide riots, leading to the seizure and damage of government and military facilities, including the GHQ in Rawalpindi.

In response, a crackdown on the PTI was initiated, resulting in numerous terrorism-related charges against its leaders and supporters. The forum also discussed Pakistan's security situation, resolving to maintain a heightened state of vigilance. They commended successful counter-terrorism operations but stressed the importance of utilizing a mix of kinetic and non-kinetic measures, such as grassroots governance, public engagement, dismantling terror networks, and strengthening police capacity, all in accordance with the National Action Plan and Vision Azm-i-Istehkam.

The conference reaffirmed Pakistan's right to self-defense and the need for "targeted action" against terrorism originating from Afghanistan, blaming the Taliban's leadership for the Taliban's involvement in facilitating terrorism on behalf of India.