Bannu — Pakistan counterterrorism efforts gained fresh momentum as Prime Minister and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, visited Bannu on Saturday. Their visit came at a sensitive time, with the nation facing rising threats from cross-border terrorism. Both leaders attended a high-level security meeting and offered funeral prayers for twelve brave soldiers who embraced Shahadat during a recent South Waziristan operation.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed that Pakistan will deal with terrorism with absolute clarity and strength. He stated that ambiguity in this fight will never be tolerated. Security officials briefed him in detail about the growing role of Afghan nationals in terrorist attacks, highlighting how these groups receive support from India.
During his remarks, the Prime Minister issued a stern warning to Kabul. He urged the Afghan government to decide whether it wishes to support foreign-backed networks or maintain stable relations with Pakistan. He stressed that Afghan nationals continue to cross the border illegally to carry out attacks, creating instability. To counter this, he directed authorities to speed up the repatriation of illegal Afghan residents. He added that this step is crucial for the success of Pakistan counterterrorism efforts.
The Prime Minister also reminded the nation that Pakistanis reject political exploitation of terrorism. Anyone who facilitates or sympathizes with India’s proxies, he warned, will face the strongest legal and administrative action. He praised the courage of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying they stand shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces as a wall of resistance against terrorist elements.
Later, the Prime Minister and COAS Asim Munir visited Bannu CMH. They met injured soldiers, assured them of full state support, and lauded their bravery. Many soldiers, despite their wounds, expressed their determination to return to the battlefield.
The Corps Commander Peshawar presented a detailed briefing on the security situation in the region. At Bannu Cantonment, the COAS welcomed the Prime Minister, symbolizing unity between civilian and military leadership. Both leaders vowed that Pakistan counterterrorism efforts will continue with full force until every terrorist network is dismantled and long-lasting peace is restored.
