Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif announced on Sunday that opposition benches could raise their concerns and make suggestions regarding the launch of the “Azm-e-Istehkam” operation in the parliament, as reported by Presstonight
Khawaja Asif, speaking in the National Assembly, stated that the matter would also be discussed in the cabinet following the Central Apex Committee’s decision to launch the Azm-e-Istehkam operation under the National Action Plan.
The decision for the new counter-terrorism campaign was made with consensus among all stakeholders, including the provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the operation, aiming to reinvigorate and re-energize the national counter-terrorism efforts.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Azm-e-Istehkam will integrate multiple lines of effort to combat extremism and terrorism comprehensively and decisively. Efforts in the politico-diplomatic domain will be intensified to limit operational space for terrorists through regional cooperation.
The campaign will be bolstered by the armed forces’ renewed efforts, supported by all law enforcement agencies, and empowered by effective legislation to address legal voids that hinder terrorism-related prosecutions and exemplary punishments.
Additionally, the campaign will include socioeconomic measures to address genuine concerns of the people, creating an environment that discourages extremism. The information space will be utilized to promote a unified national narrative in support of the campaign.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur attended the Apex Committee meeting where the operation was approved, indicating provincial support for the initiative.
