The Parliamentary Committee on National Security (NSC) convened an important meeting to discuss the country’s security situation, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorism in all its forms.

In a declaration issued after the meeting, the committee strongly condemned recent acts of terrorism and expressed deep solidarity with the affected families. It also lauded the bravery and professionalism of security forces and law enforcement agencies in counter-terrorism operations. The committee also reiterated its unwavering commitment to eliminate terrorism in all its forms.

National unity against terrorism

The forum stressed the need for a national consensus to effectively counter terrorism and emphasized the urgent implementation of the National Action Plan and the Resilience Strategy.

A major point of concern was the increasing misuse of social media platforms by terrorist networks. The committee called for clear mechanisms to dismantle these digital networks, preventing the spread of extremist propaganda.

The meeting reiterated full support for Pakistan's armed forces, law enforcement agencies and intelligence agencies, emphasizing that the entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with them in the war against terrorism. "The committee acknowledged the sacrifices of security personnel for the defence of the country," the statement mentioned, adding that those who conspire with enemy forces will not succeed in their nefarious objectives.

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The committee stressed that no one, including any individual, group or institution, would be allowed to harm the peace and stability of Pakistan. It also reiterated the commitment to dismantle the networks, logistics support and nexus of terrorist groups.

It also regretted the non-participation of some opposition leaders, and insisted the consultation process in this regard will continue.

Army chief's address: Call for national unity

Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir addressed the committee, highlighting national security being greater than all other agendas, movements, and personalities.

"This is a battle for our survival and that of future generations. For Pakistan’s protection, we must adopt a unified language and a narrative beyond political and personal interests," he stated.

General Munir also stressed the importance of better governance and warned against Pakistan continuing as a "soft state."

"How long will we keep sacrificing countless lives due to governance failures? How long will we fill governance gaps with the blood of our armed forces and martyrs?" he questioned, adding that there is nothing more important than the security of the country.

He urged religious scholars to expose the distorted interpretations of Islam propagated by extremist elements and reassured the nation that Pakistan will not be weakened by terrorists or their facilitators.

"Those who think that they can weaken Pakistan through these terrorists, today is a message that we will unite and not only defeat them, but also their facilitators. We have full faith in Allah Almighty. Whatever happens, Insha Allah, we will succeed," he declared.

The session concluded with a firm message: No individual, group, or institution will be allowed to harm Pakistan’s peace and stability. The nation remains steadfast in its fight against terrorism.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, federal ministers, Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah, Amir Muqam, the director general of Inter-Services Intelligence (DG ISI), director general of Military Operations (DGMO) attended the meeting. Azad Jammu and Kashmir Prime Minister Anwarul Haq and the Gilgit-Baltistan chief minister were also in attendance.

Other key figures present included Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Additionally, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Kamran Murtaza, Maulana Attaur Rehman, and Senator Kamil Ali Agha were also present.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi absent

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi was absent from the meeting. According to sources, the interior minister could not attend the meeting due to being abroad.

Naqvi’s name was included in the list of participants for the National Security Committee meeting, but he remained absent. Sources revealed that he had traveled to Dubai to attend the closing ceremony of the ICC Champions Trophy. Following the event, his health deteriorated, and he has been staying in Dubai for medical reasons.

According to sources, Naqvi is expected to return home this evening.

Notably, former prime minister Nawaz Sharif was not invited to the meeting. Meanwhile, former Balochistan chief minister Sardar Akhtar Mengal, who was invited, did not attend. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members of parliament also remained absent.

In his opening remarks, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq welcomed all participants, emphasizing the need for national unity and cohesion in addressing security threats.

Expressing disappointment over the opposition's non-participation, he remarked, "The country is facing serious challenges that require a united response. It would have been better if all parties had attended this critical discussion."

PM Sharif commends security forces

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his address, highlighted growing security concerns, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). He reiterated that the nation stands united against terrorism, acknowledging the sacrifices made by security forces in the fight against militancy.

"Our security forces have made immense sacrifices to protect the country. We will continue to fight terrorism at all costs. It would have been better if opposition leaders had joined this crucial meeting," the premier said.

Military brass briefs committee on security developments

The meeting, which has been ongoing for more than two hours, has focused on the escalation in terrorist activities, particularly in KP and Balochistan. Sources familiar with the briefing revealed the following key points:

Foreign Involvement: The Indian intelligence agency RAW and Afghan elements are allegedly aiding terrorist groups, contributing to unrest in the region
Cross-Border Threats: Intelligence reports indicate that Afghan soil has been repeatedly used for planning attacks in Pakistan
Terrorist Activities: The Jaffar Express attack and the assault on Bannu's Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) centre were reportedly coordinated from Afghanistan, with several Afghan nationals involved
Weapons Supply: Foreign-manufactured weapons are being used in terrorist attacks, indicating external support for militant groups
Surge in Attacks: There was a notable increase in terrorist activities ahead of Ramadan, signaling a coordinated effort to destabilize the country.