ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday signalled a decisive crackdown on terrorism, saying that the nation could no longer afford to delay action against militancy.
“If we fail to act now, all our efforts will go in vain,” he warned while addressing the federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad.
The prime minister said several incidents had occurred in recent weeks. Referring to the Rawalpindi funeral of Lt-Colonel Junaid, Major Tayyab, and nine soldiers who were martyred in Orakzai, he said, “Lt-Colonel Junaid set an example of bravery by leading from the front and eliminating 19 militants belonging to the Khawari group before embracing martyrdom along with 10 comrades.”
Shehbaz said that he also attended the funeral of Major Sibtain Haider earlier in the day, who was martyred while fighting terrorists. “When I met the families of the martyrs, every parent and sibling expressed pride that their loved ones gave their lives for Pakistan,” he said.
The prime minister lamented that precious lives were being lost every day to terrorism. “A martyr’s son and two daughters are orphaned, yet these heroes sacrifice their own families to protect millions of others,” he said.
Criticising elements that provide safe havens to militants, Shehbaz said, “It is ironic that these terrorists are being protected. They cross into Pakistan from neighbouring countries, while our so-called friends praise them. The country that hosted and honoured them is now facing their hostility.”
He said that the martyrs had drawn a clear line — to fight for Pakistan’s protection. “No one will be allowed to cross that line. If terrorism continues, the hard work of the federal and provincial governments, ministers, parliament, and officials will all go to waste. Enough is enough — we must eliminate terrorism once and for all.”
Shehbaz said the entire nation, from Karachi to Peshawar, was questioning the surge in terrorist incidents.
“We are achieving diplomatic and economic success, and have even earned a major victory against India. Yet terrorists are trying to destabilise the country. The game of fire and water must end — we must take firm decisions to eradicate terrorism.”
He stressed that the martyrs are the pride and honour of the nation. “We must always remember their sacrifices; forgetting them would be the worst betrayal. Those who support terrorists share equal responsibility for their crimes. If we fail to take decisive action, neither the nation nor Allah will forgive us,” he said.
Shehbaz reaffirmed confidence in the military leadership, saying, “The army chief’s resolve is unwavering, and the nation stands united to eliminate the Khawarij menace once and for all.”
PM reiterates unwavering stance on Palestine
The prime minister said Pakistan’s stance on Palestine has remained consistent. “At the United Nations, we represented the voice of 240 million Pakistanis and all political parties — calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the Palestinians’ right to self-determination,” he said.
He said that US President Donald Trump earlier convened a meeting attended by eight out of 57 Islamic countries, including Pakistan. “This recognition is the result of our tireless diplomatic efforts,” Shehbaz said.
The prime minister added that efforts were under way to strengthen the economy and reduce external debt. “India’s defeat has brought honour to Pakistan on the global stage. The nation, the army, and the cabinet deserve congratulations for this achievement,” he said.
Shehbaz said that he thanked President Trump on behalf of the nation for supporting a ceasefire in Gaza. “Trump assured us that he had warned Israel that the western part of Gaza would never be occupied,” he added.
He noted that after progress in the first phase of ceasefire talks, peace efforts in Gaza were moving forward and Pakistan had played an active diplomatic role in the process.
The prime minister said he had a constructive meeting with Trump in Washington, attended by the army chief. “We discussed bilateral relations, trade, and counterterrorism. I strongly condemned Israel’s actions and reiterated Pakistan’s long-standing support for an independent Palestinian state,” he said.
‘China, Saudi Arabia Pakistan’s trusted allies’
Shehbaz lauded China’s support, saying, “China is Pakistan’s time-tested and valued friend. We can never forget its role.” He also highlighted strong ties with Saudi Arabia, saying, “Our brotherly relations span centuries. The defence agreement between our two nations reflects this deep bond, stating that an attack on one will be considered an attack on the other.”
‘Development of AJK is our responsibility’
Shehbaz thanked Rana Sanaullah, Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Amir Muqam, Sardar Yousuf, Qamar Zaman Kaira, and Ahsan Iqbal for their roles in resolving the Azad Jammud and Kashmir issue. “Our Kashmiri brothers and sisters are our crown; their progress and prosperity are our responsibility. We will resolve their issues soon,” he said.
PM highlights Malaysia visit
The prime minister said Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s warmth and affection for Pakistan were remarkable.
“He personally received me at the hotel door. During the visit, a $200 million deal for halal meat exports was finalised,” he said.
Shehbaz said that Pakistan was moving steadily toward economic recovery. “According to Bloomberg, Pakistan has been ranked as the world’s second-fastest emerging economy. This recognition is the result of relentless effort, and I congratulate all relevant ministries for their contribution,” he concluded.