By ABDULLAH 
COAS stresses unified national anti-terrorism efforts as ‘terrorists know no bounds of religion, sect, or ethnicity’
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on has reaffirmed Pakistan Army’s unwavering commitment to uprooting the menace of terrorism in all its forms, and emphasizing the inevitability of socio-economic uplift of Balochistan to ensure national cohesion and and long term peace.
Speaking during an interactive session at the 16th National Workshop Balochistan, Field Marshal Munir addressed a diverse group of parliamentarians, civil society members, government officials, academicians, journalists, and youth leaders. He underscored the need for a unified and collective national response against terrorism, highlighting that violent extremism recognizes no bounds of religion, sect, or ethnicity.
In a strongly worded statement, the Army Chief condemned India’s ongoing hybrid warfare campaign, accusing New Delhi of sponsoring terror proxies to destabilize Pakistan, particularly in the Balochistan region. Referring to India’s defeat during “Ma’arka-e-Haq” — the recent military escalation from April 22 to May 10 — Field Marshal Munir said India has now intensified its proxy war through the deployment of Fitna-al-Khawarij and Fitna-al-Hindustan, which Pakistan identifies as terror outfits including the TTP and BLA.
“These proxies are nothing but pawns of Indian hybrid warfare, and they will meet the same fate and humiliation as in Ma’arka-e-Haq, Insha Allah,” he asserted.
Highlighting Balochistan’s strategic importance, Field Marshal Munir stressed that socio-economic uplift in the province is not only a national priority but a necessary step toward lasting peace. He called for enhanced inter-agency coordination and a cohesive national development framework that brings together all stakeholders to address the region’s challenges.
“The future of Pakistan hinges on the progress of every province, and Balochistan must be brought to the forefront of national development efforts,” he said.
Reiterating the military’s readiness, the COAS affirmed Pakistan’s preparedness to counter any internal or external threats with decisive action. “The protection of our national prestige and the well-being of our citizens remains the topmost priority of the armed forces,” he stated.
The COAS also emphasized Pakistan’s continued commitment to regional peace, but warned that any misadventures by hostile forces would be met with a firm and unified response.
This renewed commitment comes amid a surge in terrorist activity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, particularly after the breakdown of the ceasefire with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in late 2022. Militant groups like the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) have ramped up attacks, targeting civilians and security personnel alike.
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated earlier this year following the Pahalgam attack in April, which India blamed on Pakistan without providing evidence. A brief but intense military exchange ensued, involving air strikes and missile attacks, which was eventually de-escalated through U.S.-brokered diplomacy.
The session concluded with an open dialogue, where participants engaged directly with the Army Chief. The interaction underscored the military’s commitment to transparency, civilian inclusion, and collaborative problem-solving, especially in regions like Balochistan that have long suffered from underdevelopment and insecurity.
Field Marshal Asim Munir’s address sends a clear and comprehensive message — that Pakistan stands united against terrorism, committed to development over destruction, and ready to face any challenge in defense of national sovereignty and unity.