National security committee urges firm action against terrorism

ISLAMABAD: Parliamentary Committee on National Security (NSC) on Tuesday strongly condemning the recent wave of terrorist activities, called for immediate implementation of the National Action Plan and a strategy to eradicate terrorist networks and counter logistical support.

The committee appreciated the bravery, courage, and professional expertise of the security forces and law enforcement agencies in countering terrorism and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorism in all its forms. The committee also expressed solidarity with the families affected by the terrorism activities.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif read out the declaration unanimously adopted by the Parliamentary Committee. The in-camera meeting of the committee was convened here today under the chairmanship of National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.

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The forum emphasized the need for a strategic and united political resolve to face this threat with the full strength of the state and called for national consensus in the fight against terrorism.

The committee expressed serious concern over the increasing misuse of social media platforms by terrorist groups to spread propaganda, recruit followers, and coordinate attacks, stressing the need for immediate measures to curb this abuse. It also emphasized the need to establish procedures to block digital networks of terrorists.

Reaffirming its unwavering support for the Pakistan Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies, the committee acknowledged their immense sacrifices and the resolve for national defense, stating that the nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces, police, FC, and intelligence agencies in the war against terrorism.

The committee reiterated that no institution, individual, or group involved in collaboration with the enemy to harm Pakistan’s peace and stability will be allowed to do so.

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The committee also expressed regret over the non-participation of certain opposition members and reiterated that the process of consultation will continue in the future.

The session was attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, parliamentary committee members, political leaders, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, ministers, and senior officials from the military and intelligence agencies.

No agenda bigger than national security, says army chief

Addressing the committee, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir stressed that no agenda, movement, or individual is greater than the security of the country. 

He emphasised that achieving sustainable stability requires harmony among all stakeholders, adding that this is a battle for our survival and that of future generations.

Highlighting the need for stronger governance, General Munir said Pakistan must move beyond its current vulnerabilities and establish itself as a resilient state. “For how long will we continue to bear the cost of being a soft state, sacrificing countless lives?” he questioned. 

The army chief called for bridging governance gaps, saying, “How long will we continue filling these voids with the blood of our martyrs and the sacrifices of our armed forces?” 

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He urged religious scholars to expose the distorted interpretations of Islam propagated by extremist groups, asserting, “This country exists, and so do we.” 

Reaffirming that nothing is more important than national security, General Munir urged for a unified national narrative above political and personal interests to safeguard Pakistan. 

“We will not only defeat terrorists but also their facilitators,” he declared, adding, “With faith in Allah, we will succeed—no matter what.”

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JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed disappointment over PTI’s absence from the session, stating that he would have advised them to attend. The state’s policies must have continuity, he remarked. 

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, meanwhile, warned that Afghanistan had become a “safe haven for terrorists” and urged the global community to take notice.

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If fire erupts in Pakistan, our neighbours should not assume they will remain unaffected, he cautioned, emphasising the need to track terror financing and strengthen Pakistan’s foreign policy stance. 

Opposition boycotts committee meeting

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had demanded a meeting with Imran Khan before the NSC session. The party warned that if their demand was not met, they would boycott the meeting.

PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram confirmed that the party’s political committee held an emergency meeting to discuss their participation in the NSC session. “We will not attend the meeting unless permission is granted for a meeting with Imran Khan,” he said.

Additional input from APP