Historic Year in Pakistan’s Fight Against Terrorism
Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Director General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), held a detailed press conference to provide insights on Pakistan’s security situation and counter-terrorism efforts.
Lt Gen Chaudhry described 2025 as a historic and productive year in Pakistan’s war against terrorism. “Last year saw an unprecedented number of counter-terrorism operations, marking a milestone in our nationwide campaign,” he stated. Emphasizing the unity of the state and people, he added, “The war against terrorism is the war of the entire nation. Terrorists are Khawarij and have no connection with the religion of Islam.”
Key Counter-Terrorism Statistics of 2025
Lt Gen Chaudhry shared detailed operational statistics from across the country:
- Total operations against terrorists: 75,175
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 14,658 operations, 16 suicide bombings
- Balochistan: 58,778 operations
- Other regions: 1,739 operations
- Total terrorist incidents nationwide: 5,397
- Suicide bombings nationwide: 27
- Martyrs in the war against terrorism: 1,235
He noted that all political parties supported the National Action Plan (NAP), reflecting a nationwide consensus on counter-terrorism measures. Pakistan’s robust approach has also received international recognition for its effectiveness.
Afghanistan as a Growing Terrorist Safe Haven
Lt Gen Chaudhry highlighted that developments in Afghanistan post-2021 have directly affected Pakistan’s security. While the Afghan Taliban had promised to prevent terrorism on Afghan soil, ensure women’s rights, and form an inclusive government, the DG ISPR noted that no practical progress has been observed.
As a result, Afghanistan has become a safe haven for global terrorist networks, including:
- Al-Qaeda and ISIS
- Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)
- Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)
- East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) targeting China
- Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) targeting Central Asia
Lt Gen Chaudhry warned that militants from various regions, including foreign fighters displaced from Syria, have relocated to Afghanistan, further intensifying regional security risks.
Terror Financing and External Support
The ISPR DG revealed that terrorist groups are receiving financial and logistical support via multiple channels. He disclosed that approximately $7.2 million has been provided to militants, alongside bulletproof jackets and protective gear, enabling organized and coordinated operations.
Internal political factionalism and weak governance in Afghanistan have strengthened these networks, while the Afghan Taliban has strategically reorganized the TTP, giving it a structured leadership, training systems, and strategic guidance modeled after their own framework.
A Unified National Front Against Terrorism
Lt Gen Chaudhry reiterated that Pakistan remains determined and united in eliminating terrorism. His remarks underscored the importance of strategic vigilance, political consensus, and public awareness in combating threats both within and beyond Pakistan’s borders.
“The state has a clear stance against terrorism and is determined to eliminate it,” the DG ISPR affirmed, highlighting the ongoing commitment to national security and stability in the region.