Hand behind terror

2026-02-08 - 22:26

The swift arrest of facilitators and mastermind behind the suicide attack in Islamabad deserves unequivocal appreciation. The Counter-Terrorism Department, KP police and other security agencies demonstrated professionalism, coordination and resolve, even at the cost of precious lives, as evident by martyrdom of a KP police assistant sub-inspector during the raids. Their actions sent a clear message: terrorism will be confronted decisively, and those who plan or enable such crimes will be pursued relentlessly. At the same time, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s press conference has laid bare some critical realities. According to the minister, while planning and training for the Islamabad attack were carried out in Afghanistan, the financing and targeting were orchestrated by India. His assertion that Afghan-based terrorist networks are being funded, directed and enabled by India is something that demands international attention. Naqvi’s remarks about increased payouts to terrorists and external funding streams underline how these groups are being sustained and incentivised to destabilise Pakistan.There should be no ambiguity about intent behind the Islamabad attack. Targeting an Imambargah was a deliberate attempt to ignite sectarian tensions and fracture Pakistan’s social fabric. However, this attempt is destined to fail. Pakistan’s society, despite its diversity of beliefs and schools of thought, has repeatedly shown resilience against sectarian provocation. Sunnis, Shias and followers of other sects continue to live side by side in relative peace and harmony, refusing to be drawn into the narratives of hatred that terrorists seek to impose. The unity of the people remains the strongest antidote to such violence.What is now required is a clear, forceful and sustained response at the state level. Pakistan must engage Afghanistan with firmness and clarity, making it unequivocally known that the use of Afghan soil for terrorism against Pakistan is unacceptable and will not be tolerated under any circumstances.Equally important is the need to expose alleged Afghanistan–India terror nexus at international forums. Pakistan should take this matter to the United Nations, the OIC and raise it forcefully through robust bilateral engagements. The world cannot afford to remain silent. Ignoring state-sponsored or state-enabled terrorism will only embolden extremist networks and endanger not just regional stability but global peace and security.