ISLAMABAD, September 27 — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday separately commended security forces for counterterrorism operations in Balochistan that left more than 71 terrorists dead over the past 96 hours.
The prime minister praised security forces for operations against militants described by authorities as Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, saying their performance demonstrated professionalism, courage and bravery.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, security forces cleared several militant hideouts during the operations, removing threats to communities in the affected areas.
PM Shehbaz said the entire nation stood with the security forces in the fight against terrorism and reiterated the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism being perpetrated with foreign patronage and support.
He said counterterrorism operations under Azm-e-Istehkam would continue with full force and determination.
President Zardari, in a separate statement, also commended security forces for eliminating more than 71 terrorists during Operation Shaban and other operations across Balochistan.
According to the President Secretariat, the president described the clearance of numerous terrorist hideouts as a major success for the security forces.
President Zardari praised operations against Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, which his office said were operating with the patronage of India and the Afghan Taliban.
He stressed that counterterrorism operations would continue until terrorism backed by foreign patronage and assistance was completely eliminated.
“The sacrifices and services of our security forces in the fight against terrorism are a source of pride for the entire nation,” the president said.
The statements followed security operations in different parts of Balochistan, including Operation Shaban, during which authorities said more than 71 terrorists had been killed over the past 96 hours.
Both the president and prime minister reaffirmed the state’s commitment to continuing counterterrorism operations and eliminating militant networks operating in the country.