PM Shehbaz vows to eliminate ‘India-backed terrorism in Balochistan

QUETTA: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate what he described as India-backed terrorism, saying the country’s civil and military leadership would continue operations until all militants are defeated.

Chairing a meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee on the National Action Plan in Quetta, Sharif expressed concern over a recent surge in militant violence, describing the attacks in Balochistan over the past four days as “very serious incidents.”

According to Pakistani authorities, at least 54 militants were killed during security operations following three major attacks in the province. Officials also said 42 people, including security personnel and civilians, were killed in the violence.

The prime minister praised the sacrifices of the armed forces and civilians, saying the nation stood united in confronting militancy.

“This war against terrorism will continue until the last terrorist in Pakistan is eliminated,” Sharif said.

He accused Pakistan’s eastern neighbor, India, of backing the attacks and alleged that Afghan territory was being used by militants to launch cross-border operations into Pakistan. India has consistently denied allegations of supporting militant groups operating in Pakistan.

Sharif also said hostile elements were attempting to undermine Pakistan following what he described as the country’s recent diplomatic successes.

The meeting was attended by Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Balochistan Governor Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti and senior military and law enforcement officials.

The meeting came a day after the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said security forces would continue operations against militants and their facilitators following the recent attacks in Balochistan.

At a news conference, ISPR Director General Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said 42 people, including 38 security personnel, were killed in the recent attacks, while security forces had killed 54 militants in subsequent operations.

He also alleged that Afghan territory under Taliban control was being used to facilitate attacks inside Pakistan. The Taliban administration has previously rejected similar allegations.