PAKISTAN: According to a report from State media, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has firmly opposed Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, warning of robust resistance against any military intervention in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. During a significant gathering in Islamabad, PTI leaders, including Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, and Asad Qaiser, convened to discuss the potential impacts of the operation in the region.
The meeting concluded with a unified stance against the proposed operation, as articulated by PTI leader Iqbal Afridi. Afridi highlighted that PTI's decision is to defer the matter to a Jirga, a traditional council of elders, for a final verdict on whether to proceed with the operation, as reported by State media. Ali Amin Gandapur also presented an overview of previous anti-terrorism efforts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reinforcing PTI's opposition stance. The party members reiterated their firm disapproval, pledging to vigorously oppose any military action within the province.
This dissent against Operation Azm-e-Istehkam was echoed by other political figures. Maulana Fazlur Rehman, head of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F), condemned the initiative, labeling it destabilizing and potentially harmful to Pakistan's security. During a press conference, Maulana Fazlur Rehman criticized the operation, renaming it "Adm-e-Istehkam," suggesting that it could exacerbate vulnerabilities rather than bolster security.
Similarly, Asfandyar Wali Khan, leader of the Awami National Party (ANP), expressed reservations about the military operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Khan, whose party has historically made significant sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, voiced concerns over the operation's potential implications. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive national action plan before any military engagement.
PTI's decision to oppose Operation Azm-e-Istehkam coincided with the Central Apex Committee meeting of the National Action Plan, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The committee endorsed a revitalized national counterterrorism strategy through the launch of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, highlighting a collective commitment among stakeholders, including provinces and territories like Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
In response to the Prime Minister's endorsement, PTI remained steadfast in its opposition, reflecting broader concerns within political circles regarding the effectiveness and strategic implications of such military operations. The PTI's stance came shortly after the Central Apex Committee meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
"The prime minister approved a strengthened national counterterrorism campaign through the initiation of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam, with the consensus of all stakeholders, including provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, demonstrating the national determination to eradicate extremism and terrorism," stated the Prime Minister's Office in a post-meeting statement.
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