Field Marshal Munir reaffirms resolve to eliminate terrorism in Balochistan

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces, reaffirmed on Thursday that Pakistan will continue eliminating terrorism in Balochistan. He told participants of the 20th National Workshop Balochistan in Rawalpindi that operations against Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan, the terms used by Pakistani authorities for TTP and BLA militants, would continue until all networks are eradicated.

Why is Pakistan continuing military operations in Balochistan?

Pakistan is continuing operations because foreign-sponsored proxy groups have persistently tried to fuel violence and destabilize the province, according to Munir. The army chief said these efforts would be defeated through a firm, decisive military response backed by public support. He framed the campaign as necessary to dismantle terrorist infrastructure and protect Balochistan's population and resources.

What did Munir say about foreign-backed proxy groups?

According to the ISPR, Munir made the remarks while addressing participants at GHQ. He said sustained efforts by the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, combined with public support, would bring lasting peace to Balochistan. Pakistan remained committed to dismantling terrorist infrastructure wherever it threatened the country's security, he added.

ISPR

Munir described Balochistan as home to immense natural resources and a resilient population that represents its greatest strength. He said federal and provincial development initiatives were working to transform the province's socio-economic landscape through an inclusive approach. He also credited civil society, academia, the media and youth for supporting national integration and long-term stability.

Emphasizing national unity, Munir said collective effort was essential to shaping Pakistan's future. The session ended with an interactive discussion in which participants reaffirmed their commitment to the country's stability, progress and sovereignty.

What is the current security situation in Balochistan?

Balochistan, Pakistan's largest but least populated province, has seen a surge in militant attacks in recent months. The rise in violence has prompted security forces to intensify operations across the region. Earlier on Thursday, District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar and his security guard were shot dead when gunmen ambushed their convoy in the province.

Another judge and a second person were wounded in the attack, officials said. The violence follows a series of counterterrorism operations this week. The military said security forces killed three militants, including two suspected suicide bombers, in Mastung, while seven militants were killed in a separate operation in Surab district.