Military pauses operations for Eid but warns of swift retaliation against any renewed threats
WEB DESK: Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces, has pledged decisive action against terrorism, vowing to dismantle militant networks “wherever they exist.”
Speaking during a meeting with religious scholars in Rawalpindi, Munir said intelligence-based operations would continue with precision targeting, according to a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations on Thursday.
The remarks come as Pakistan observes a temporary halt in Operation Ghazab lil-Haq during Eid-ul-Fitr, following diplomatic appeals from allied Muslim nations.
Munir underscored Pakistan’s commitment to regional stability, referencing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, while warning that violence within Pakistan linked to foreign events would not be tolerated. He urged clerics to counter extremism and prevent misuse of religion for incitement.
Participants at the gathering condemned religiously motivated violence and pledged support to law enforcement agencies.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed the ceasefire would remain in effect from March 18 to March 23, calling it a goodwill gesture. However, he warned that any cross-border aggression or terror attack would trigger a renewed military response.
Before the pause, security forces reported killing 707 militants and damaging key infrastructure, including bases and heavy weaponry. Airstrikes also targeted insurgent hideouts in Afghanistan, disrupting cross-border networks.
The Afghan Taliban have also announced a temporary suspension of hostilities, offering a brief period of de-escalation.
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