Pakistan marks APS Peshawar anniversary, reaffirms resolve against terrorism

Pakistan solemnly commemorated the anniversary of the terrorist attack on the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar on Tuesday, paying tribute to the children and teachers killed in one of the country’s deadliest acts of terrorism.

The attack on Dec. 16, 2014, saw militants storm the school in Peshawar, killing at least 150 people, most of them students. The massacre shocked the nation and remains a defining moment in Pakistan’s struggle against militancy.

The attack was claimed by Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. In its aftermath, Pakistan announced a sweeping crackdown on militant groups, including the launch of a national action plan aimed at curbing extremism, dismantling terror networks, and strengthening counterterrorism measures.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the APS martyrs symbolize the nation’s enduring resolve to confront and defeat terrorism in all its forms. It said the tragedy continues to remind the country of the urgent need to eradicate the menace of terrorism.

Highlighting Pakistan’s sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism, the Foreign Office said the country has lost more than 90,000 lives. It said Pakistan has also suffered immense economic and social losses as a result of terrorism.

These sacrifices, the statement said, underscore Pakistan’s frontline role and unwavering commitment to counterterrorism efforts. The Foreign Office said those efforts have helped save countless lives within the country and beyond the region.

The statement reaffirmed that Pakistan’s security forces and law enforcement agencies continue to take decisive and effective action against terrorist groups. It also pointed to what it described as a persistent threat posed by terrorist elements operating from across the border with sustained external support.

The Foreign Office said Pakistan has consistently raised this issue and taken firm measures to prevent terrorism from spilling into its territory. The statement emphasized that Pakistan has acted as a bulwark against the spread of terrorism.

It said the country has contributed significantly to regional and international peace and stability. The Foreign Office called for concrete action to dismantle terrorist sanctuaries. It also urged cutting off all forms of support to terrorist groups, including those targeting Pakistan.

As the nation honors the APS martyrs, the statement said Pakistan reaffirms its unshakeable resolve to protect its people.

It added that Pakistan remains committed to defending its sovereignty. The statement said the country will continue to pursue lasting peace through unity and resilience.

It concluded by reiterating an uncompromising stance against terrorism, regardless of its origin.