PM, Field Marshal in Bannu, Pledge Tough Action on Terrorism

BANNU – Prime Minister of Pakistan and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, visited Bannu where they attended a high-level counter-terrorism meeting and the funeral prayers of 12 soldiers martyred in the South Waziristan operation, security sources said.

During the visit, ongoing counter-terrorism operations were reviewed. Officials confirmed that the Prime Minister and Army Chief were briefed in detail on the security situation and strategy against militants. Important decisions are expected to be made to further strengthen these operations.

The Prime Minister declared that terrorism will be answered with full force and no ambiguity will be tolerated. He said militants carrying out attacks in Pakistan are being supported from Afghanistan, with India providing backing to these networks. He added that Afghan nationals have been involved in several recent incidents after crossing into Pakistan and stressed that Afghanistan has been told to choose between supporting terrorists or maintaining relations with Pakistan. He also underlined the urgent need for repatriation of illegal Afghan residents in Pakistan.

The Prime Minister said the people of Pakistan, especially the citizens of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stand united with the state and armed forces against Indian-backed proxies. He warned that anyone facilitating or defending terrorist groups would be dealt with firmly.

The Prime Minister and Field Marshal also visited injured soldiers at CMH Bannu, while Corps Commander Peshawar gave them a detailed briefing on the regional security situation.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistan’s security forces killed 35 militants in two separate operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa between September 10 and 13. In Bajaur district, 22 Indian-sponsored militants were eliminated in an intelligence-based operation after heavy fighting. In another encounter in South Waziristan, 13 more militants were killed and weapons were recovered. However, 12 soldiers embraced martyrdom during these clashes.

The Prime Minister concluded that all necessary administrative and legal measures will be taken immediately to deliver a stronger response against terrorism. The joint presence of Pakistan’s political and military leadership in Bannu reflects the government’s determination to restore peace in violence-hit areas.