Khawaja’s clarification

2026-01-29 - 01:51

THE remarks made by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif at a news conference on Tuesday regarding the situation in Tirah Valley were a much-needed clarification, cutting through the confusion that had arisen between the federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments. The uncertainty surrounding the migration of people from the area had led to a flurry of speculations. Khawaja Asif pointed out, no large-scale military operation is taking place in the valley. The migration, a routine and seasonal phenomenon dictated by the harsh weather conditions, is a long-standing practice. This clarification was crucial, given that the situation in Tirah has been painted in conflicting lights by some quarters much to the confusion of the public. Khawaja Asif clarified, intelligence-based operations (IBOs) have been prioritized over large-scale kinetic operations, not just in Tirah but across other regions as well. These IBOs are designed to root out terrorism while minimizing collateral damage, and they have been a crucial part of the ongoing campaign to maintain peace and stability in the country. These IBOs indeed have proven to be very successful. However, the situation underscores the need for greater coordination between the federal and provincial governments. Security, governance, and development are interlinked, and a fragmented approach to tackling these challenges only fuels confusion. Terrorism is a menace, not one to be politicized or treated as a point of contention between political rivals. Both federal and provincial governments need to unite with a clear focus on security and governance. The people of Tirah Valley, and the rest of the country, deserve more than political games. The terrorists who continue to endanger lives, including those of civilians and security personnel, deserve no mercy. The key to victory in this fight lies in unity and clarity of purpose. The federal government, with its security apparatus, and the provincial government, with its local knowledge, must work in tandem to combat terrorism from all angles, both kinetic and non-kinetic. We salute the sacrifices of our security forces in this war against terrorism, and we urge all parties to focus on the ultimate goal: a peaceful, secure and prosperous Pakistan.