Solidarity with defence forces

2026-02-12 - 23:56

THE National Assembly, on Wednesday, unanimously passed a resolution expressing unwavering solidarity with the defence forces, praising their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and paying tribute to fallen martyrs. Presented by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, the resolution reaffirmed the nation’s support for the military’s role in ensuring security and peace, condemning attempts to malign the institution. The resolution comes at a time when the defence forces are engaged in the noble mission of addressing the challenge of terrorism that is causing not only human and material cost but also presents a negative picture of the country in the comity of nations. The defence forces, security forces and intelligence agencies face a daunting task as highlighted by daredevil coordinated attacks by Indian-sponsored terrorists in different locations of Balochistan, almost daily attacks in KP especially Bannu/DI Khan and dastardly suicide bombing of an Imambargah in Islamabad. Terrorists are also specifically targeting posts and premises of defence forces, police and intelligence agencies but despite sacrifices the security forces are determined to take the counter-terrorism campaign to its logical conclusion as it is directly linked to the peace and security of the country and its march on the road to progress and prosperity. However, it is regrettable that some circles are in the habit of enjoying limelight at the expense of national unity and credibility of the very institutions that are offering immense sacrifices for the cause of safety and security of each and every citizen of the country. The war on terror has no personal or institutional motives and is aimed at fighting anti-state elements. The institutions engaged in this unconventional war need solidarity but unfortunately they are frequently targeted by vested interests for petty political gains as highlighted by the irresponsible remarks of Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Mahmood Khan Achakzi, who strangely dubbed the Pakistan Army as army of four districts, clearly aimed at trying to belittle the stature and role of a towering institution that has gained respect globally for its professionalism and dedication to the cause of peace and security. Similar attacks against national institutions are launched, off and on, by some other politicians and circles but the latest by Achakzai is highly deplorable as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly is regarded as a Shadow Prime Minister and therefore, he should have maintained sanctity of the coveted office. The opposition and its leader are entitled to criticize policies and programmes of the Government but such remarks are nothing but personal vendetta. In fact, by churning out scathing remarks against the Pakistan Army, which consists of personnel from all parts of the country and defends every inch of the entire motherland, the Leader of the Opposition has dented his own stature and personality. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has rightly told Mahmood Khan Achakzai that the Pakistan Army is not an army of a province or district but has a national character. The Leader of the Opposition and his colleagues might have political grievances but these should not be linked with the national campaign against terrorism. Do they want to support or shield those who are spilling blood of innocent people and attacking the infrastructure of the country? The fight against terrorism is a national endeavour to secure the future of the country and it is the responsibility of each and every citizen and more so those having responsible positions to contribute their share for realization of this noble objective. It is also unfortunate to offer any shield to Afghanistan and India for their nefarious designs against Pakistan. Instead, the enemies of the country, be they internal or external, should be treated as such unless they change their course.