Apex Committee approves military operation in Balochistan

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan on Tuesday approved a comprehensive military operation against terrorist organizations active in Balochistan, including Majeed Brigade, Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF), and Baloch Raaji Ajoi Sangar (BRAS).

According to a statement issued after the Apex Committee meeting, the decision of carrying out a military operation against these organizations was taken because they are targeting innocent citizens and foreign nationals to hinder the country’s economic development by creating insecurity at the behest of enemy external powers.

The meeting, held under the chair of Prime Minister of Shehbaz Sharif, was attended by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir, federal ministers, provincial chief ministers, and other senior officials.

The agenda of the meeting focused on revitalizing the country’s counter-terrorism efforts.

The participants were briefed on the general law and order situation in the country, changing security landscape, measures taken to address terrorism and other key challenges, efforts to curb attempts to incite hyper-nationalism and religious extremism, and tackling the illegal spectrum.

The participants stressed the need for a unified political voice and a coherent national narrative to effectively address key challenges. They also agreed to put aside all biases and create a complete consensus to eradicate terrorism.

The meeting laid special emphasis on strengthening cooperation between the federal and provincial governments, as well as relevant institutions and ministries. It also called for the integration of political, diplomatic, intelligence and military efforts to resolve issues.

In addition, it was decided to establish District Coordination Committees under the Provincial Apex Committees to ensure implementation of the instructions received from the federal and provincial governments.

Furthermore, the meeting agreed on the revival of National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA), establishment of national and provincial intelligence fusion and threat assessment centers.

Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed all stakeholders to vigorously pursue the outlined measures and ensure their timely implementation for promoting peace and tranquility in the country.

He stressed the importance of sustained and coordinated efforts to ensure Pakistan’s sovereignty, the security of its citizens, and strengthen economic and social stability.

On the occasion, COAS General Asim Munir reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Army to fully support the government’s efforts to eliminate all threats to national security and ensure peace and stability.