PM Shehbaz vows to pursue war on terrorism until last militant is eliminated

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed on Thursday to continue Pakistan's war on terrorism until the "last terrorist" is eliminated, a day after the military reported at least 42 people killed in militant attacks and security operations in Balochistan since July 5.

What did PM Shehbaz say about the war on terrorism?

Sharif said Pakistan would use all available resources to eliminate militancy and would not step back from the fight.

Speaking in Quetta alongside Field Marshal Asim Munir, he announced the decision on behalf of himself, the military leadership and the Balochistan government to continue the campaign "day and night."

What triggered the prime minister's statement?

Sharif addressed a meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee on the National Action Plan in Quetta, joined by Chief of Defense Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti and senior civil and military officials also attended.

Sharif said recent attacks had killed civilians, police and armed forces personnel, prompting the need for a united national response.

How many militants were killed in the recent operations?

Sharif said security forces killed 54 militants while responding to the wave of attacks. He praised the coordinated response from the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, saying the entire nation stood behind them. The visit followed the military's report that 42 people, mostly security and law enforcement personnel, were killed in Balochistan since July 5.

Who does PM Shehbaz blame for the terrorism in Balochistan?

Sharif repeated Pakistan's accusations that India was funding and arming militant groups operating against the country. He said militants based in Afghanistan were jointly carrying out attacks in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He also referred to unspecified "khariji hands" without elaborating further, echoing recent military statements on the issue.

What did PM Shehbaz say about the banned TTP?

Sharif said the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, which the government calls "Fitna al Khawarij," aimed to damage Pakistan's international standing. He said the group could not accept the respect Pakistan had earned through diplomatic successes and last year's four-day war in May. He added that the group was trying to create difficulties for the country.

Who accompanied PM Shehbaz on the Quetta visit?

Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and the prime minister's adviser on political affairs, Rana Sanaullah, accompanied Sharif on the one-day visit. Sharif closed his remarks by reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to sustainable development and prosperity. He also offered prayers for those killed in the ongoing conflict.