DG ISPR Draws Red Line on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Security
Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has issued a firm and unequivocal warning, declaring that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) will not be allowed to be handed over to terrorists under any circumstances.
Addressing a high-level press conference, the military spokesperson stressed that counter-terrorism operations are a constitutional obligation and a national responsibility, not a political choice.
“Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the most affected province by terrorism,” he said, noting that nearly 71 percent of all terrorist incidents nationwide have occurred in KP.
Political Facilitation Strengthening Terror Networks
Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry warned that a political–criminal–terror nexus has created a conducive environment for extremist groups to regroup and operate.
“Should the state pledge allegiance to terrorists if operations are not carried out?” he asked, cautioning that any resistance to counter-terrorism efforts directly benefits terrorists.
He questioned why certain political groups have never been targeted by Fitna al-Khawarij, while attacks have struck nearly all mainstream political forces.
‘KP Will Not Be Surrendered’
The ISPR DG categorically rejected any suggestion of retreat or compromise.
“It is the duty of the Pakistan Army to protect Pakistan’s security. Terrorism is not a provincial issue it is a national threat.”
He reaffirmed that no political pressure or narrative would be allowed to weaken the state’s resolve.
2025: A Defining Year in Pakistan’s War on Terror
Lt Gen Chaudhry described 2025 as a historic and decisive year in Pakistan’s counter-terrorism campaign, marked by an unprecedented number of intelligence-based operations (IBOs) across the country.
Key Counter-Terrorism Statistics (2025)
- Total counter-terrorism operations: 75,175
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa:
- 14,658 operations
- 16 suicide bombings
- Balochistan: 58,778 operations
- Other regions: 1,739 operations
- Total terrorist incidents: 5,397
- Total suicide attacks: 27
- Martyrs: 1,235
“These figures reflect the state’s clear, uncompromising resolve to dismantle terror networks,” he said.
National Unity Against Terrorism
The DG ISPR emphasized that the war against terrorism is the war of the entire nation.
“All political parties are united on the National Action Plan,” he said, reiterating that terrorists are Khawarij and have no link to Islam.
He added that Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts have earned global recognition and appreciation.
Illegal Mining and Governance Failures in KP
Lt Gen Chaudhry raised serious concerns over illegal mining activities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, questioning who issued over 5,000 mineral licenses in the province.
He warned against misleading claims of development and dollar inflows, stating clearly:
“Real development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is only possible after peace.”
Afghanistan Turning Into a Terrorist Safe Haven
The ISPR chief identified the 2021 political change in Afghanistan as a major turning point in the resurgence of terrorism.
He said the Doha Agreement led to regional instability with direct consequences for Pakistan’s internal security.
The Afghan Taliban, he noted, had made three commitments:
- Afghan soil would not be used for terrorism
- Women’s rights would be protected
- An inclusive government would be formed
“Unfortunately, no practical progress has been seen on any of these fronts,” he said.
Global Terror Networks Operating From Afghan Soil
According to Lt Gen Chaudhry, Afghanistan has become a safe haven for multiple terrorist outfits, including:
- Al-Qaeda
- ISIS
- TTP leadership and training centres
- Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA)
He added that ETIM (against China) and IMU (against Central Asia) are also active, with militants from diverse ethnic and regional backgrounds now operating freely.
Terror Financing and External Support Exposed
The DG ISPR revealed that terrorist groups are receiving financial and logistical support through regional proxies.
- $7.2 million provided to terrorists
- Supply of bulletproof jackets and protective equipment
He said weak governance and internal factionalism in Afghanistan have further strengthened militant networks.
TTP Reorganized After 2021
Lt Gen Chaudhry disclosed that after 2021, the Afghan Taliban restructured the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as a central organization.
The group was given:
- Afghan Taliban-style command structure
- Formal training systems
- Strategic direction
This significantly enhanced its operational capability, he warned.
Why This Matters
The ISPR DG’s remarks underscore a clear red line: Pakistan will not compromise on security, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will not be surrendered to extremism, regardless of political pressure or propaganda.