Tag Archives: #Inter-Services Public Relations

Security forces kill three terrorists in Tirah IBO

  September 26, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Security forces killed three terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the general area of Tirah, Khyber District, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Tuesday.

According to a statement from the military’s media wing, the security forces conducted the operation on the night of September 25-26 after they received reports of terrorists’ presence in the area.

“During the conduct of the operation, an intense fire exchange took place between own troops and terrorists which resulted in the killing of three terrorists,” said the statement.

One of the terrorists included Commander Kifayat alias Tor Adnan who was actively involved in multiple terrorist activities against the law enforcement agencies as well as the killing of innocent civilians, read the statement.

“Sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area,” it said, adding that the security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism.

Read more: TTP commander among three terrorists killed in Dara Adam Khel IBO

On September 24, a soldier was martyred in an exchange of fire with terrorists during an IBO in the general area of Mir Ali in North Waziristan.

ISPR stated that Sepoy Shakeel Shafqat, 21, who was a resident of District Khanewal, embraced martyrdom while fighting gallantly.

Last month, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir said that Pakistan was acting as a bulwark against terrorism and the international community must realise the immense sacrifices rendered by the country.

Solider martyred, three terrorists killed in Quetta shootout

  September 15, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Solider martyred, three terrorists killed in Quetta shootout. One soldier was martyred while three terrorists were killed during an exchange of fire between the miscreants and the security forces in Quetta, a statement issued by the military’s media win said on Friday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the terrorists had attacked a security forces’ post near Wali Tangi area of Quetta on Thursday evening.

During the exchange of fire, three terrorists were killed.

The martyred soldier was identified as Subedar Qaiser Raheem while another soldier was also seriously injured.

“Security forces of Pakistan will continue to thwart efforts of the enemies of peace and prosperity in the country,” the ISPR added.

Last month, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir had said that Pakistan was acting as a bulwark against terrorism and the international community must realise the immense sacrifices rendered by the country.

Read more: COAS Munir in Uzbekistan to enhance defence cooperation: ISPR

According to the ISPR, the army chief had made the remarks during a meeting with a group of 38 students from Harvard University, United States hailing from 9 different countries at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, the military’s media affairs wing added.

During the interactive session, the COAS had talked about regional security issues and the Pakistan Army’s contributions to promoting peace and stability in the region.

The army chief had also highlighted the rich potential of Pakistan and urged the participants to perceive Pakistan based on their experiences during their stay in Pakistan.

Gen Munir further had said that the human suffering and atrocities being committed in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and efforts to change the demographic realities.

“[The] students appreciated the COAS for providing the opportunity for a constructive interaction,” the ISPR added.

In the first week of September, General Asim Munir also stressed the importance of a strong economy for invincible defence, saying mutual cooperation is the key to the economic development of the country.

In a statement, commemorating Defence and Martyrs’ Day, the army chief had also berated those who tried to undermine the strong bond between the military and the people.

“Pakistan Army as a national institution foiled it [sinister attempt] with great patience and wisdom,” the statement added, quoting Gen Asim, read.

The COAS had also termed unity and trust between the military and people a great asset.

Four soldiers martyred as attack on army check posts in Chitral repulsed

  September 06, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Four soldiers embraced martyrdom while repulsing terrorist attacks on two Pakistan Army check posts located near the Afghanistan border in the general area Kalash, District Chitral, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday.

“On 6 September 2023, a large group of terrorists equipped with the latest weapons, attacked two Pakistani military posts located closer to Pakistan Afghanistan border in general area Kalash, District Chitral,” a statement released by the ISPR stated.

It said that the soldiers fought bravely and repulsed the attacks, inflicting heavy casualties on the terrorists.

During the fire exchange, 12 terrorists were sent to hell, while a large number of the militants were critically injured.

The military’s media wing said that the terrorists’ movement and concentration in the Gawardesh, Pitigal, Barg-e-Matel and Batash areas of Nuristan and Kunar provinces of Afghanistan had been identified and timely shared with the interim Afghan government.

“Owing to heightened threat environment, own posts were already on high alert,” it added.

The ISPR stated that sanitisation of the area was being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area.

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” it said, adding that the brave people of Chitral also stand firmly with the security forces in restricting the terrorists from ruining the peace of the area.

“Interim Afghan Government is expected to fulfill its obligations and deny the use of Afghan soil by terrorists for perpetuating acts of terrorism against Pakistan,” it concluded.

Read more: COAS Munir in Uzbekistan to enhance defence cooperation: ISPR

Nation cannot be “coerced” by terrorists: Gen Munir

The attack came days after, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir vowed that the nation cannot be “coerced” by “cowardly tactics of the terrorists” who hold the “misbelief that they can challenge the iron resolve of the soldiers and writ of the state”.

As per the military’s media wing, the army chief passed the remarks while visiting Bannu in KP where, a day earlier, nine soldiers were martyred when a suicide bomber exploded himself near a military convoy in the Jani Khel area.

“The army, law enforcement agencies and the nation can never be coerced by the cowardly tactics of the terrorists, who have a misbelief that they can challenge the iron resolve of the soldiers and writ of the state,” Gen Munir said while interacting with officers and troops deployed in the area.

The COAS further said that the nation has “fought for long and will continue to fight the menace of terrorism till the end”.

“The nation pays rich tribute to those who have laid their lives and their sacrifices will forever be honoured,” he added.

COAS Munir witnesses field fire, battle drills near Jhelum

  August 30, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir visited Tilla Field Firing Ranges near Jhelum where he witnessed the field fire and battle drills, a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday.

According to the military’s media wing, the army chief was briefed on training objectives set for the exercise with a view to validating the operational readiness of the formation in a challenging environment.

The army chief, during his visit, appreciated the synergy displayed by the Air Force, Army Aviation and ground troops in the execution of various operational drills

Gen Munir also praised the troops for their combat proficiency and offensive spirit, appreciating their high morale and battleworthiness of the troops.

Upon his arrival, the army chief was received by Lieutenant General Syed Aamer Raza, Commander 4 Corps.

Last week, COAS Munir said that terrorists, their affiliates and abettors — working on the behest of a hostile agenda to destabilise Pakistan — will be hunted down until they surrender to the state.

Read more: Shahid Afridi hopes Asia Cup to become ‘true celebration of the sport’

The army chief made these remarks during his interaction with officers and troops deployed in the Sherwangi area near Asman Manza in South Waziristan district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), where six brave soldiers had embraced martyrdom a day earlier while fighting gallantly against terrorists, the military’s media wing added.

The COAS appreciated the troops’ unflinching resolve in fighting the menace of terrorism. “Shuhada are our pride and their sacrifices will not go in vain till the return of complete peace and stability in Pakistan.”

During the visit, Gen Munir was also given a detailed briefing on the prevailing security situation including ongoing intelligence and counter-terrorism operations.

Earlier upon arrival, the COAS was received by Commander Peshawar Corps.

Pakistan ready to thwart ‘nefarious designs’ of adversaries, says Gen Asim Munir

  August 09, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

RAWALPINDI: Army Chief General Asim Munir vowed that Pakistan possesses the “wherewithal to thwart nefarious designs of its adversaries through the entire gamut of threat”, said the military’s media wing in a statement on Wednesday.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that the chief of army staff (COAS) passed the remark when he visited Tilla Field Firing Ranges near Jhelum in Punjab. During the visit, Gen Munir witnessed live fire and manoeuvres of the advanced VT-4 tanks, shoot and scoot capabilities of long-range SH-15 artillery guns and innovative equipment display.

“The Pakistan Army is alive to the existing and emerging challenges and possessed the wherewithal to thwart nefarious designs of its adversaries through the entire gamut of threats,” the army chief added.

He also lauded the combat proficiency of the crews and their mastery over state-of-the-art weaponry. He also appreciated the high degree of professionalism, battle worthiness and offensive spirit displayed by the troops of the strike corps.

When the army chief arrived in Jhelum he was received by Mangla corps commander and briefed on the operational readiness of the strike corps.

Read more:COAS Munir vows to dismantle terrorist network in Pakistan ‘at all costs’

Earlier this week, Gen Munir said the recent surge in terrorism was a “futile effort” by terrorists to resume talks and warned them to submit to the “writ of state of Pakistan before they are decimated”.

According to the ISPR, the army chief issued the warning when he met the tribal elders and notables from the newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The “interactive session” was held during the COAS’s visit to Peshawar.

“The surge in terrorism in recent past is a futile effort on the part of terrorists to get the talks re-initiated, however, there is no option for these terrorists except to submit to the writ of state of Pakistan before they are decimated, if they persist on their wrong path,” Gen Munir was quoted by the military’s media wing.

The army chief also reiterated the resolve of the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps (FC) and other law enforcement agencies in their fight against terrorism. “He [Gen Munir] showed resolve to finish peril of Narco which is becoming a lifeline for these TTP khawaraj.”

 

COAS Munir vows to dismantle terrorist network in Pakistan ‘at all costs’

  August 07, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Asim Munir on Monday vowed that Pakistan will spare no effort to dismantle terrorist networks and protect its citizens “at all costs”.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief made these remarks when he met the tribal elders from newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well as notables from all walks of life.

The “interactive session” was held during the chief of army staff’s (COAS) visit to Peshawar. COAS Munir also laid floral wreath at Yaadgar-e-Shuhada at Fort Bala Hisar (Headquarters Frontier Corps Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – North) & offered Fatiha.

During the interactive session, COAS paid rich tribute to the supreme sacrifices of brave and resilient tribals of Pakistan and appreciated their indomitable resolve for standing “shoulder to shoulder” with the security forces in defeating menace of terrorism.

He pointed out that the involvement of Afghan nationals in terrorist incidents in Pakistan was detrimental to “regional peace, stability and deviation from the Doha Peace Agreement by the interim Afghan Government”.

“Pakistan has concerns over sanctuaries available to banned outfits and liberty of action they enjoy on Afghan soil,” the army chief said, vowing that Pakistan will spare no effort to dismantle terrorist networks and protect its citizens ‘at all costs’.

The army chief further said, “With the unflinching resolve of the Nation, Pakistan is successfully countering terrorism to enable a stable and peaceful environment for socioeconomic development in the area” COAS remarked.

Meanwhile, the tribal elders assured that Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and its ideology will never be acceptable to any tribe and they will continue to  stand with the state during the thick and thin.

COAS Munir emphasised the potential of Newly Merged Districts (NMDs) and on-going efforts in uplifting the socio-economic growth under the umbrella of Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

He also expressed his views that “KPK province is blessed with huge reserves of Mines & Minerals, also beautiful areas for tourism which will certainly change the destiny of the area for the good of the people.”

“Pak Army stands with our tribal brothers and will never leave them alone as over the years they have given innumerable sacrifices for the peace and prosperity of the motherland. It’s time to develop all tribal areas and concentrate on youth” COAS remarked.

COAS reiterated the resolve of Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps and other Law Enforcement Agencies in their fight against terrorism, till the elimination of this menace from the country.

“The surge in Terrorism in recent past is a futile effort on the part of terrorists to get the talks re-initiated, however, there is no option for these terrorists except to submit to the writ of state of Pakistan before they are decimated, if they persist on their wrong path.

The army chief also reiterated that propaganda by inimical forces against Armed Forces of Pakistan, will be dealt with as per the Law.

Paying tribute to brave tribesmen, officers & soldiers of Pak Army, FC, Levies, Khasadars and Police, COAS vowed that sacrifices of Shuhada will not go in vain and complete peace will return to Pakistan, InshaAllah.

Proud movement: World Junior Squash Champion Hamza Khan calls on COAS Asim Munir

  August 04, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan, Sports

RAWALPINDI: World Junior Squash Champion Mohammad Hamza Khan called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir at the General Heaquarters (GHQ).

COAS congratulated the youg champion Hamza Khan for achievement in bringing honour to the country, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) press release.

“Talents like you make us all proud and your great achievement also underscores the great potential that this nation has”, the army chief remarked.

COAS also said, “Army will continue to support the young talent in the country and promised to provide him full support in academic pursuit and sports.”

COAS Munir emphasised, “Our youth is the future of this country and with focus, dedication and hard work there is nothing that Pakistan cannot accomplish”.

Read more: US Coast Guard says debris field discovered near Titanic

Hamza Khan, COAS Asim Munir, World Junior Squash Champion

After 37 long years, Pakistan became the World Junior Squash champion as young Hamza Khan made a comeback to beat his Egyptian rival Mohamed Zakaria to win the finale in Melbourne last month.

Khan claimed a 3-1 victory over Zakaria in the finale, with a scoreline of 10-12, 14-12, 11-3 and 11-6.

This was Pakistan’s first World Junior Squash title in nearly four decades as the last Pakistani player to lift this trophy was Jansher Khan, who won the title 37 years ago in 1986.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded Junior World Squash Champion Hamza Khan for bringing laurels to Pakistan despite the lack of facilities for sports.

Pakistan Army major martyred in Khyber gun battle

  July 06, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

A Pakistan Army major embraced martyrdom during a gun battle with terrorists in district Khyber’s Shakas area, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Thursday.

The incident took place when security forces launched an intelligence-based operation (IBO) between the night of July 5-6 in the area after they received information about the presence of terrorists, the ISPR said.

Major Mian Abdullah Shah, leading the operation from the front, spotted a part of the militants after the “establishment of blocking positions to cut the escape routes of terrorists was underway”.

When the forces intercepted them, the ISPR said, a heavy exchange of fire ensued, resulting in the martyrdom of Major Shah — a 33-year-old resident of Kohat.

Read more: Unprovoked cross-LoC Indian firing martyrs two Pakistani civilians: ISPR

The forces then arrested three terrorists and their facilitators while a sanitisation operation is underway to eliminate any more terrorists in the area, the military’s media wing said.

“Security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism, and such sacrifices of our soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” the ISPR added.

The development comes hours after at least three soldiers embraced martyrdom when a vehicle-borne suicide bomber exploded himself in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district.

The martyred soldiers were identified as Naib Subedar Sahib Khan, 41, a resident of Mianwali; Naik Muhammad Ibrahim, 40, a resident of Dera Ismail Khan; and Sepoy Jehangir Khan, 24, a resident of Mardan, the ISPR said, adding that three innocent civilians also sustained critical injuries in the suicide blast.

Three days back, a major was among two military personnel who embraced martyrdom when terrorists “tried to ambush” a “combat patrol of security forces” in the Balor area of Balochistan’s Hoshab district.

As a result of the heavy exchange of fire, Major Saqib Hussain and Naik Baqir Ali embraced martydorm, while another soldier sustained injuries, the ISPR mentioned.

Army calls for tightening ‘noose of law’ around May 9 ‘planners, masterminds’

  June 07, 2023 Uncategorized

RAWALPINDI: The formation commanders of the Pakistan Army on Wednesday called for a tightening of the “noose of law” “around the planners and masterminds” that launched a “rebellion against the state and state institutions”, a statement issued by the military’s media wing said.

“It has been further stressed that, while the legal trials of perpetrators and instigators have commenced, it is time that the noose of law is also tightened around the planners and masterminds who mounted the hate-ripened and politically driven rebellion against the state and state institutions to achieve their nefarious design of creating chaos in the country,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

The statement was issued after Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir presided over the 81st Formation Commanders Conference at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.

The meeting was attended by corps commanders, principal staff officers and all formation commanders of the army.

The top commanders while condemning the May 9 attacks reiterated their “firm resolve” that the desecrators of martyrs monuments, Jinnah House and attackers of military installations would “certainly be brought to justice speedily under the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secret Act which are the derivatives of the Constitution of Pakistan”.

“In this regard, efforts to create distortions and attempts to take refuge behind imaginary and mirage Human Rights Violations to create smoke screen for hiding the ugly faces of all involved, are absolutely futile and do not stand the abundantly collected irrefutable evidences,” said the commanders.

They also stressed that “endeavours by any quarter to create obstructions and stymie the conclusive defeat of ill design of inimical forces will be dealt with iron hands”.

Read more: Two soldiers martyred in terror attack along Pak-Iran border: ISPR

Commanders pay tribute to martyrs

In the meeting, the forum paid tribute to the “supreme sacrifices” of the martyrs including officers and men of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and from civil society. It also offered Fateha for the martyrs.

“The state of Pakistan and Armed Forces will always keep Shuhadas (martyrs) and their families in highest esteem and will continue to honor them and their sacrifices with utmost respect and dignity,” the forum was quoted by the ISPR.

As per the military’s media wing, the meeting was also briefed on prevalent environment, challenges to internal and external security, and the operational preparedness of the army in response to the evolving traditional and non-traditional threats.

The meeting was also briefed on the “structural changes and niche technologies” being added to the armoury for the enhancement of the “operational preparedness besides upgradation of essential logistic infrastructure corresponding to emerging security imperatives”.

“Pakistan Army will remain committed towards their national obligations of safeguarding territorial integrity and sovereignty [of the country],” the army chief told the participants. He also added that the bond between the people and the armed forces “would remain central” to their undertakings and the May 25 events “were a clear manifestation of same”.

“Unfounded and baseless allegations on law enforcement agencies and security forces for custodial torture, human rights abuses and stifling of political activities are meant to mislead the people and malign armed forces in order to achieve trivial vested political interests,” the forum stated.

The army chief told the forum that “hostile forces and their abettors” designs to create “societal division and confusion through fake news and propaganda” will continue to “defeated with the full support of the nation”.

Gen Munir also stressed on maintaining high standards of professionalism and motivation during operations and achieving excellence during training of their formations. He lauded the commanders for their constant focus on the wellbeing and high state of morale of their soldiers who remain the foundation of army’s operational readiness.

“Forum concluded by affirming resolve to render all sacrifices necessary for the security and stability of the country with the perpetual support of the proud people of Pakistan,” said the ISPR.

Two soldiers martyred in terror attack along Pak-Iran border: ISPR

  June 01, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Two soldiers martyred in terror attack along Pak-Iran border: ISPR. Two soldiers were martyred in a shootout by terrorists at a security forces post in Singwan — the country’s bordering region with Iran — in the district Kech of Balochistan, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.

In a statement, the military’s media wing stated that a group of terrorists targeted the security forces’ post, but they were pushed back as the deployed troops were alert.

A heavy exchange of fire ensued as the soldiers responded gallantly, using all the available weapons.

“During the intense fire exchange, two brave soldiers, Sepoy Hasnain Ishtiaq, 34, and Sepoy Inayat Ullah, 27, embraced Shahadat while fighting bravely with the terrorists,” the statement read.

Providing details about the martyred soldiers, the ISPR said that Sepoy Ishtiaq was a resident of the district Dera Ghazi Khan, while Sepoy Inayat was a resident of the district Jhal Magsi.

Read more: Six terrorists killed in South Waziristan IBO: ISPR

It said that a sanitisation operation was launched in the area immediately after the attack, while contact with the Iranian authorities had also been made in order to deny terrorists any opportunity to escape.

“Security Forces, in step with the nation, remain determined to thwart attempts at sabotaging peace and stability all along the borders in Balochistan,” ISPR added.

A day earlier, two terrorists were gunned down by security forces in an operation conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s South Waziristan district.

The ISPR said that security forces conducted an intelligence-based operation today in the general area of Dossali after receiving a tip-off about the presence of terrorists.

“During the conduct of the operation, intense fire exchange occurred between security forces and terrorists, resulting in the killing of two terrorists,” the ISPR said. It added that weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the terrorists.

The military’s media wing further said that the terrorists were “actively” involved in activities against “security forces and killing of innocent citizens”.

The sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area.

It also said that “locals of the area appreciated the operation and expressed their full support to eliminate the menace of terrorism”.

British army chief arrives in Pakistan on 5-day ‘Defence Engagement’ visit

  May 29, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

British army chief arrives in Pakistan on 5-day ‘Defence Engagement’ visit. The British Army’s Chief of the General Staff (CGS), General Sir Patrick Sanders, arrived on Monday in Pakistan for a five-day Defence Engagement visit as part of the longstanding defence cooperation agreement between the two countries.

During his visit, General Sanders would meet with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir, alongside other Defence Engagement activities and discussions on bilateral military cooperation in response to climate change-related crises would be a key focus of the visit, a news release said.

The depth and warmth of the UK-Pakistan military relationship and friendship, underpinned by a shared history and ‘living bridge’ diaspora links, are highly valued by the UK.

The existing defence relationship includes Pakistani officers undertaking training at the UK’s Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, the Advance Command and Staff Course and the Royal College of Defence Studies.

General Sanders’ visit comes almost one year after Pakistan’s devastating floods which left nearly one-third of the country submerged and affected an estimated 33 million people.

Read more: Six terrorists killed in South Waziristan IBO: ISPR

The UK’s Ministry of Defence was directly involved in providing assistance for flood relief operations, airlifting in eight boats and ten portable generators at the request of Pakistan’s army chief.

Earlier this year, COAS Muir paid an official visit to the UK from February 5 to 10 in connection with the 5th Pakistan-UK Stabilisation Conference.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) had said that the conference was a bi-annual event for military-to-military cooperation between the two countries, in which senior Pakistani military leadership has been participating since 2016.

COAS says military united, ‘every soldier puts duty first’

  May 22, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

COAS says military united, ‘every soldier puts duty first’. Every soldier and officer of the armed forces put their duty and responsibilities first regardless of regional, linguistic, and political prejudices and distinctions, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir asserted Monday.

Addressing an award ceremony for martyrs and officials at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Rawalpindi, he emphasised that a strong army was the guarantor of a country’s security and unity.

In a statement, the military’s media affairs wing said that 51 officials were awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz (military), 22 were awarded the Tamgha-i-Basalat and two officials were awarded special United Nations medals.

They were awarded for their “acts of gallantry during operations and meritorious services rendered to the nation”.

A large number of senior army officials and families of martyrs attended the event.

“Undoubtedly, we are living in a free atmosphere due to the martyrs’ sense of duty and their great sacrifices,” Gen Munir said. He termed the martyrs’ sacrifices and officials’ services a “valuable asset” and “source of pride” for the country.

Read more: COAS & Chinese commander reiterate need for maintaining peace, stability in region

“The Pakistan Army, as an institution, always remembers every individual associated with the army and his family, and our relationship as a family is a proud and exemplary one,” the COAS said.

He condemned the attacks on military installations and martyrs’ monuments — that were carried out by enraged Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protesters in days-long riots following the arrest of chairman Imran Khan — and termed them “extremely saddening and intolerable”.

He also announced that May 25 would be marked as “Pakistan Martyrs Day”.

The army chief’s comments come days after the military refuted rumours of disunity in its ranks. During the violent protests that only simmered down after Khan’s release, reports circulated that army officers had resigned due to the ongoing chaos.

Snubbing those reports, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry had told a private news channel, “despite all-out efforts of internal miscreants and external enemies, the army remains united under Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir.”

“The dreams of creating division within the army will remain dreams. Neither anyone has resigned nor disobeyed any order,” the army’s spokesperson added.

After the supporters attacked army installations, the ISPR said that May 9, 2023 — the day when chaos gripped the nation following Khan’s arrest — would go down in history as a “dark chapter”.

The military also announced that all those who had vandalised military installations, including the Lahore Corps Commanders House and the GHQ entrance, would be tried under the Pakistan Army Act and the Official Secret Act.

At least one killed, three injured in Peshawar blast

  May 18, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

At least one killed, three injured in Peshawar blast. Bomb disposal unit said in a statement that a 200-gram magnet improvised explosive device (IED) was used in the explosion.

A blast in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s capital of Peshawar has killed at least one person and injured three others, local police said Wednesday.

“The blast took place after a bomb planted in motorcycle exploded. We are gathering information on the nature of the blast. Initial reports suggest that the blast took place when the motorcycle was being repaired,” the police said.

The incident took place near a hotel on the Ring Road in the provincial capital.

The owner of the motorcycle in among the injured while one of the injured is in critical condition, the police added.

Bomb disposal unit said in a statement that a 200-gram magnet improvised explosive device (IED) was used in the explosion.

The police said IED device is often used in incidents involving family feuds.

Soldier martyred, militant gunned down during crossfire in KP’s Bajaur district

A soldier was martyred in an exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces in Bajaur district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, said the military’s media wing in a statement on Thursday.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said that a fire exchange took place between terrorists and security forces in the general area of Loesam and the troops fought bravely and effectively engaged the terrorists’ location.

Read more: Six soldiers martyred in North Waziristan skirmish, says ISPR

“However, during an intense exchange of fire, Sepoy Shafiq Ur Rehman (age 23 years, resident of DI Khan) having fought gallantly, embraced Shahadat,” said the ISPR, adding that a terrorist was also killed during the shootout.

It further said that sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area.

The security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and these sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve, read the statement.

On May 13, six soldiers and a civilian embraced martyrdom during a clearance operation at a Frontier Corps compound in the Muslim Bagh area of Balochistan.

According to the ISPR, the operation had begun on Friday after the repulsion of the “initial onslaught of terrorists” was completed early Saturday morning.

“The complex clearance operation involved hostage rescue operation as well to save three families from a residential block. The terrorists had not even spared children of their horrendous approach,” said the ISPR.

The military’s media wing shared that all six terrorists in the compound, who were well-equipped, were killed by the security forces. It added that the “necessary intelligence follow-up” is underway to “trace their linkages and arrest facilitators and expose their sponsors”.

“In the process of clearance operation, seven sons of the soil including a civilian have embraced shahadat while another six individuals including a woman have been injured,” added the statement.

The military assured that the security forces remain determined to thwart all attempts at sabotaging the peace, stability and progress of Balochistan.

PTI ‘welcomes’ army’s legal recourse advice to probe Imran Khan’s allegations

  May 08, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan, Politics

PTI ‘welcomes’ army’s legal recourse advice to probe Imran Khan’s allegations. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s Secretary-General Asad Umar on Monday concurred with the military’s statement asking PTI chief Imran Khan to take legal recourse instead of levelling “baseless allegations” against the senior military official.

His statement came hours after the army came down hard on the former prime minister for his “irresponsible and fabricated allegations” against a senior serving military officer.

“[The] chairman PTI has levelled highly irresponsible and baseless allegations against a serving senior military officer without any evidence,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said in a statement, as Khan continues his tirade against the establishment.

Responding to the ISPR’s statement, Umar in a Twitter statement said he “totally” agreed with the ISPR that a legal recourse should be taken to resolve the allegations.

The senior PTI leader claimed that Khan had tried to take legal action by filing a first information report (FIR) and approaching the Supreme Court against the senior intelligence officer.

The deposed premier — who was voted out of office in April last year — has claimed that the senior military officer, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah were behind the assassination attempt on him on November 3, 2022, but provided no evidence to authorities so far, while all the officials have rejected the allegations.

Read more: Six soldiers martyred in North Waziristan skirmish, says ISPR

In today’s statement, the military’s chief spokesperson further warned Imran Khan, saying: “We ask the political leader concerned to make recourse to legal avenues and stop making false allegations. The institution reserves the right to take legal course of action against patently false and malafide statements and propaganda.”

“The institution supporting that legal recourse would be a very positive step forward,” the former PTI minister added.

‘Are military officers above the law?’

Before the army’s statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had condemned the PTI chief’s tirade against the senior military officer. At this, Imran Khan slammed the premier, asking whether “[military] officers are above the law?”

“As someone who has suffered 2 assassination attempts on his life in [the] last few months, can I dare to ask SS the following Qs: Have I, a citizen, the right to nominate those I feel were responsible for assassination attacks on me? Why was I denied my legal & Constitutional right to register an FIR?”

“Does SS tweet mean mly officers are above the law or that they cannot commit a crime?” he wondered. The PTI chief further asked that if a person is being blamed for a crime, how can it be perceived that an entire institution is being maligned?

“Who was so powerful as to sabotage Wazirabad JIT while [the] PTI govt was in power in Punjab?”

Khan, without naming anyone, said that when PM Shehbaz can truthfully answer all his questions, it would point to point to one powerful man and his accomplices “all being above the law”.

“Then it is time for us to officially declare that in Pakistan there is only law of the jungle where Might is Right.”

Army assails Imran Khan over ‘malicious allegations against senior military officer’

  May 08, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Army assails Imran Khan over ‘malicious allegations against senior military officer’. The army came down hard on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan on Monday for his “irresponsible and baseless allegations” against a senior military officer, who is currently serving in the armed forces.

“Chairman PTI has levelled highly irresponsible and baseless allegations against a serving senior military officer without any evidence,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said in a statement, as Khan continues his tirade against the establishment.

The PTI chief has claimed that the senior military officer, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah were behind the assassination attempt on him on November 3, 2022, but provided no evidence to authorities so far, while all the people accused have rejected the allegations.

Read more: Will use Constitution if PTI-govt talks fail, warns CJP Bandial

“These fabricated and malicious allegations are extremely unfortunate, deplorable and unacceptable,” the top military spokesperson said.

Khan has also blamed former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa for his government’s ouster in April last year, but has still not been able to prove it.

The army’s spokesperson, in the statement, also said that a pattern has been witnessed over the last year, wherein, the army personnel are targetted for one’s political motives.

“This has been a consistent pattern for [the] last one year wherein military and intelligence agencies officials are targeted with insinuations and sensational propaganda for the furtherance of political objectives.”

The ISPR DG added that politicos should refrain from making baseless allegations and warned that if such a trend were to continue, the army had the right to take legal action.

“We ask the political leader concerned to make recourse to legal avenues and stop making false allegations. The institution reserves the right to take legal course of action against patently false and malafide statements and propaganda.”

Earlier, in response to Khan’s allegations right a day after he was shot, the army had said that his “baseless and irresponsible allegations” against the institution and particularly a senior army officer are “absolutely unacceptable and uncalled for”.

Gen Asim Munir meets Muttaqi & Qin Gang at GHQ, mutual interests discussed

  May 07, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Gen Asim Munir meets Muttaqi & Qin Gang at GHQ, mutual interests discussed. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir, in meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, stressed the need for enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan to “effectively” tackle the common challenges of terrorism and extremism.

According to a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Afghan FM, who is currently in Pakistan for a four-day visit, called on the army chief at his office in Rawalpindi.

The two discussed issues of mutual interest including aspects related to regional security, border management, and formalisation of bilateral security mechanisms for improvement in the current security environment.

Besides discussing the bilateral issues, COAS Gen Munir also reiterated the need for full support and commitment from the interim Afghan government in matters of mutual interest, the military’s media wing stated.

Read more: COAS & Chinese commander reiterate need for maintaining peace, stability in region

Moreover, the visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan’s traditional support for the people of Afghanistan and acknowledged the important role that the country continues to play in facilitating peace and development in Afghanistan. He also expressed his desire to work closely with Pakistan to promote regional stability and prosperity.

During the meeting, both sides agreed on the importance of maintaining regular contact to strengthen bilateral ties and address issues of common concern.

Later, the army chief reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to a stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan.

COAS, Chinese FM discuss regional security situation

Separately, the army chief also held a meeting with the Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Qin Gang at the general headquarters in Rawalpindi during which matters of mutual interest including regional security and defence cooperation came under discussion.

COAS Gen Munir, in the meeting, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the China-Pakistan Strategic relationship. He also pledged full support for China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project, which is a vital component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Gen Munir also appreciated China’s unwavering support for Pakistan on regional and international issues.

Meanwhile, the Chinese minister underscored the importance of the longstanding strategic relationship between the brotherly nations and expressed his satisfaction over the progress made on the CPEC while reiterating China’s commitment to its timely completion.

He also lauded Pakistan’s efforts in maintaining regional peace and stability, especially the support of Pakistan Armed Forces for provision of security to Chinese Nationals and projects in Pakistan.

Both the army chief and FM Gang discussed the evolving security situation in the region.

“COAS acknowledged China’s role in promoting peace and stability in the region, and both sides agreed to enhance their existing cooperation in defence and security domains to effectively counter common security challenges,” the statement read.

The meeting, as stated by the ISPR, concluded on a positive note with both sides reiterating their resolve to further strengthen the time-tested, all-weather friendship between Pakistan and China.

Six soldiers martyred in North Waziristan skirmish, says ISPR

  May 04, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Six soldiers martyred in North Waziristan skirmish, says ISPR. Six soldiers of the Pakistan Army embraced martyrdom and three terrorists were eliminated in a fierce gunfight that broke out in a remote part of the mountainous North Waziristan district, the military said on Thursday.

The statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing read: “A fire exchange took place between terrorists and own troops in general area Dirduni, North Waziristan District.”

It added: “Three terrorists were sent to hell while injuring another two”.

The six brave who — having fought gallantly — before they were martyred include: Havaldar Saleem Khan (age 36 years, resident of District Tank), Naik Javed Iqbal (age 37 years, resident of District Kohat), Sepoy Nazir Khan (age 26 years, resident of District Bannu), Sepoy Hazrat Bilal (age 25 years, resident of District Mardan), Sepoy Syed Rajab Hussain (age 22 years, resident of District Orakzai) and Sepoy Bismillah Jan (age 22 years, resident of District Khyber).

The military wing’s statement further added that a search operation was underway to clear any active threats holed up in the area.

“Sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any terrorists found in the area.”

Moreover, the statement concluded with a resolve to ensure that terrorism was eliminated from the country.

“Security Forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve,” the ISPR statement added.

Last week, three soldiers of the Pakistan Army were martyred during three separate encounters with terrorists in different parts of Lakki Marwat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), according to the military’s media wing.

An ISPR statement stated that on the night of 27-28 April, security forces while fighting gallantly repulsed three attacks by terrorists on different locations within a short span of time in Lakki Marwat district.

A motorcycle-borne suicide bomber exploded himself near security forces post in the district followed by a fierce fire exchange between the troops and terrorists, it added.

The two other encounters occurred in the Amir Kalam and Tajbi Khel areas of the district, in which three more terrorists, including terrorist commander Musa Khan, were eliminated.

Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the seven killed terrorists, according to the ISPR.

Military leadership briefs PM Shehbaz on security situation

  May 03, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Military leadership briefs PM Shehbaz on security situation. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir and Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director General Lieutenant General Nadeem Anjum called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the PM House on Tuesday, The News reported citing local media.

According to local media sources, during the meeting, the army chief and ISI DG briefed the prime minister on the security situation in the country.

Reportedly, PM Shehbaz was apprised of the recent measures against terrorism, including the border situation.

In the meeting, Shehbaz expressed satisfaction with the professional affairs of the Pakistan Army.

However, despite the media reports, the Prime Minister’s Office and the army’s media wing remained tight-lipped about the meeting.

Last week, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director-General (DG) Major General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry — in a press conference — briefed the nation on the army’s efforts to root out terrorism from the country and situation at the borders — amongst other things.

Read more: COAS Asim Munir vows to ‘further solidify’ bond between army & people

The top military spokesperson said that the army is focused on rooting out terrorism from the country.

“Pakistan fought the war against terrorism for two decades. Every Pakistani soldier is devoted to faith and piety,” he added.

“The contacts between the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Baloch [insurgent] organisations and foreign intelligence agencies have been proven.”

The ISPR DG further said that 137 security officials have been martyred so far this year while 117 have been wounded. “The war against terrorism that Pakistan has fought is unprecedented and will continue till the last terrorist is eliminated.”

He added, “Terrorist organisations and their facilitators’ have no ideology, religion or faith. They attack mosques, police, religious scholars, mediapersons and citizens.”

Moreover, regarding the situation at the country’s border, the army spokesperson said that around 3,141 kilometres-long border has been fenced along the frontiers with Afghanistan and Iran to prevent infiltration of terrorists.

He said 98% border with Afghanistan and 85% with Iran has been fenced, while 85% of forts along the Afghanistan frontier and 33% with Iran have been completed.

He stated that 65% of erstwhile tribal areas have been cleared of land mines.

Two soldiers martyred in shootout with terrorists in Khyber District

  April 26, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

Two soldiers martyred in shootout with terrorists in Khyber District. Two Pakistan Army soldiers embraced martyrdom during a fire exchange with the terrorists in the general area of Tirah, Khyber District, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Wednesday.

In a statement issued by the military’s media wing, the soldiers effectively engaged the terrorists’ location which resulted in the killing of two terrorists while four others got injured.

The statement said that weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed terrorists.

“However, during an intense exchange of fire, Sepoy Waqas Ali Shah (age 26 years, resident of District Charsadda) and Sepoy Basit Ali (age 24 years, resident of District Peshawar) having fought gallantly, embraced shahadat,” said ISPR.

It further said that the sanitisation of the area is being carried out to eliminate any other terrorists found in the area.

Read more: Three terrorists killed in Bajaur IBO: ISPR

The security forces of Pakistan are determined to eliminate the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve, it added.

As Pakistan remains gripped by the spate of terror attacks for the last few months, the country’s civil and military leadership has resolved to stand united against terrorists.

The National Apex Committee — comprising the country’s top military and political leadership — sought national consensus to root out militancy.

The recent attacks by terrorists in the country’s rural and urban centres, claiming the lives of innocent Pakistanis and law enforcers, have triggered the security forces and LEAs to accelerate action against them.

COAS & Chinese commander reiterate need for maintaining peace, stability in region

  April 26, 2023 Latest News, Pakistan

COAS & Chinese commander reiterate need for maintaining peace, stability in region. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir and the commander of the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) have reiterated the need for maintaining peace and stability in the region, said the Pakistan military’s media wing in a statement.

As per the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), COAS Asim Munir on the first day of his visit to China visited the PLA Army Headquarters. The army chief is currently in China on a four-day visit.

On his arrival, the COAS was presented with the guard of honour and later he reviewed the smartly turned-out contingent.

Read more: COAS Asim Munir calls on PM Shehbaz to discuss national security

General Asim Munir discussed the “regional security situation” in his detailed meeting with the PLA commander. Both officials also reiterated enhancing military-to-military cooperation, the ISPR said.

Later, the army chief also witnessed a demonstration of the operational capabilities of the PLA troops.

Gen Munir praised the high standards of training and the professionalism displayed by the soldiers.

The ISPR said that the army chief will hold further meetings with military leaders in China to enhance the long-standing relations between the two militaries.