Amid relentless efforts by security forces to rid the country of the scourge of terrorism, politicians from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa have agreed on the need for a united front beyond political colors against the extremist philosophy of terror groups.

Interacting with Chief of General Staff Asim Munir, who was visiting Peshawar, politicians belonging to different political parties pledged consensus on the need for one political voice and public support against the scourge of terrorism.

“The political representatives showed vivid clarity of unwavering support from the armed forces and LEAs [law enforcement agencies] in the nation’s fight against terror and agreed on the need for a united front beyond political colors against the extremist philosophy of terror groups,” the military’s media wing, ISPR, said in a statement.

The army chief also made it clear that any attempt to disturb the nation’s peace will be met with “decisive and overwhelming force”. The reaffirmation of the counter-terrorist decision coincided with a successful intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Kacchi district of Balochistan, which left 27 terrorists dead. A day earlier, nine Khwarij were eliminated in two separate IBOs in North Waziristan District of KP.

“The enemy may try to sow discord and fear, but we will not relent. Enemy elements will be dealt with an iron fist. They will continue to suffer heavy casualties and their ability to inflict damage will be decimated,” General Asim said during a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing security situation and the ongoing counter-terrorism operations targeting Fitna Al Khwarij.

The briefing was also attended by the federal home minister and the chief minister of KP, the military’s media wing, ISPR, said in a statement. Earlier on arrival, the Army Chief was received by the Corps Commander Peshawar.

Gen Asim praised the “unwavering determination and unparalleled sacrifices” of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies that have been instrumental in dismantling terrorist networks and thwarting their nefarious agenda.

“As we stand united against the forces of evil, I am immensely proud of the remarkable achievements of our security forces. Through their dedication, courage and supreme sacrifice, we have successfully degraded the operational capabilities of terrorist organizations both within our borders and beyond,” he said.

“Our forces have relentlessly pursued and eliminated key terrorist leaders, dismantled their infrastructure and neutralized their cells, sending a clear message that terror has no place in our country. This war is on and we will take it to its logical conclusion conclusion, InshAllah,” the army chief added.

General Asim further emphasized the relentless efforts of the law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of citizens, prevent numerous attacks and maintain peace and order. “Each operation has been a testament to the courage, professionalism and operational readiness of the security forces, who continue to counter the evolving terrorist threats,” he added.

In his year-end news briefing, DG ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said security forces had conducted a total of 59,775 operations in 2024, noting that Pakistan had made a lot of sacrifices in its fight against terrorism.

“During these successful operations, 925 terrorists, including Khawarij, were sent to hell while several were arrested,” he said on December 27 last year, highlighting that the number of terrorists killed was the highest in the last five years. He added that “more than 179 operations” were carried out on a daily basis by the Pakistan Army, law enforcement and intelligence agencies and police.

The army chief praised the “extraordinary morale” of the troops, who remain steadfast in their commitment to protect the nation’s sovereignty. “The Pakistan Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies stand as an unbreakable force, resolute in their mission to protect the motherland and its people,” he affirmed.