The tragic loss of 13 Pakistan Army soldiers in North Waziristan marks yet another grim reminder of the relentless war Pakistan continues to wage against terrorism. The attack, carried out by Indian-sponsored terrorists using an explosive-laden vehicle, is a painful blow not only to the military but to the entire nation. It reaffirms the threats we face from hostile actors bent on destabilizing our internal peace and sovereignty. In the aftermath of the tragedy, the presence and powerful statements by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, provide both a morale boost and a clear message that Pakistan will not waver in its fight against terrorism.
Field Marshal Munir’s visit to the site, his attendance at the funeral of the Shuhada at Bannu Garrison, and his interaction with the injured soldiers at CMH Bannu reflect not just solidarity but a deep-rooted commitment to those who sacrifice their lives for the nation. His words were not mere condoleces, but a solemn vow: “The blood of every innocent Pakistani shall always be avenged, and any attempt to undermine Pakistan’s internal stability will be met with swift and decisive retribution.” This is a stern warning to our enemies and a reassurance to our citizens that the sacrifices of our armed forces will never go in vain.
The COAS also praised the unmatched courage of Pakistan’s security forces, who have been confronting and neutralising the growing threat of “Fitna al-Khawarij” . His reference to these terrorists as “Indian-sponsored” is not without evidence or precedent. For years, Pakistan has presented dossiers, intelligence reports, and confessions of captured operatives to prove India’s covert involvement in promoting insurgency, particularly in Balochistan and KP. The latest attack in North Waziristan only strengthens this claim, and the COAS has promised that the “true face of terrorism” will soon be exposed to the world.
Terrorism, however, cannot be combated by the military alone. The COAS rightly highlighted the need for strengthening institutional capacity, especially among civilian law enforcement agencies. He placed particular emphasis on enhancing the capabilities of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police. Given the province’s frontline position in the war on terror, it is critical that local policing bodies are equipped with modern training, intelligence-sharing frameworks, advanced weaponry, and protective gear. Institutional reforms, funding, and strategic focus are vital components in this long-term war.
Furthermore, the COAS’s call to government stakeholders to prioritise capacity-building efforts for civilian security institutions is an important policy directive. The Armed Forces cannot, and should not, shoulder this burden alone. It is time for the civilian leadership to rise to the occasion and allocate necessary resources, legislative backing, and political support to local and federal law enforcement agencies.
This editorial would be incomplete without acknowledging the resilience of the Pakistani people. In the face of repeated attacks, they have shown unity, courage, and unwavering support for the state’s fight against extremism. The COAS reaffirmed this national resolve by saying that the people of Pakistan stand united in their mission to decisively eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
As the war on terror enters a more complex and prolonged phase, Pakistan must rely on a comprehensive strategy, one that combines military action,intelligence, regional diplomacy, counter-narratives, and most importantly, strong governance. The recent tragedy in North Waziristan is a reminder that our enemies are active and ruthless. But it is also a reminder of our strength, the bravery of our soldiers, the unity of our nation, and the clarity of purpose as voiced by the COAS.
In conclusion, Pakistan’s response to this heinous act must be firm, strategic, and relentless. We owe it to our Shuhada, to every soldier who patrols our volatile borders, and to every innocent citizen whose safety depends on a secure and stable homeland. The message is loud and clear: Pakistan will not forget, will not forgive, and will never bow down to the enemies of peace.
