In a rare display of political unity, leaders from across Pakistan’s political spectrum came together on Thursday to express their full support for the military’s recently launched Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq. This decisive action was initiated in response to what Islamabad described as unprovoked and repeated firing by the Afghan Taliban along various points of the border in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The operation underscores Pakistan’s firm stance against any form of aggression threatening its territorial integrity.
The armed forces received widespread acclaim from political figures who praised their swift and resolute response to the cross-border attacks. Many emphasized that Pakistan would not tolerate any hostile acts from Kabul or any other quarters, making it clear that any such aggression would be met with an equally strong and immediate countermeasure. This collective endorsement highlights the seriousness with which the country views its border security challenges.
President Asif Ali Zardari was among the first to voice his support, stressing that Pakistan’s commitment to peace and sovereignty remains unwavering. He described the military’s counteraction as comprehensive and warned that any misinterpretation of Pakistan’s previous restraint as weakness would be a grave mistake, inviting a robust and forceful response. His remarks reflect the government’s determination to protect the nation’s borders at all costs.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister’s Office released a statement reaffirming the nation’s readiness to defend its sovereignty. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that safeguarding Pakistan’s security is non-negotiable and that the armed forces are fully equipped with the necessary expertise, training, and strategic capabilities to confront threats both within and beyond the country’s borders. His message conveyed a strong sense of confidence in the military’s professionalism and preparedness.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also weighed in, highlighting that the security forces are actively responding to what he termed proxy elements and Afghan aggression. He called on the PTI-led government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to join hands with the federal government and other provinces in presenting a united front against these external threats. His appeal underscores the importance of national cohesion in the face of security challenges.
Provincial leaders echoed similar sentiments. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti condemned the cross-border firing and praised the prompt and effective response led by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir. He reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to protect its territorial integrity and made it clear that militant safe havens across the border would not be tolerated under any circumstances. This stance reflects the broader national consensus on border security and counterterrorism.
In Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressed her solidarity with the armed forces in a succinct message, simply stating, “Long live Pakistan.” Similarly, Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon shared a Quranic verse alongside the patriotic slogan, reinforcing the spirit of unity and resilience among Pakistan’s leadership during this tense period.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq took a more pointed approach by condemning Afghanistan’s actions as unprovoked aggression. He accused Afghanistan of acting as a proxy for India, aiming to destabilize the region through orchestrated terrorist activities targeting Pakistan. His remarks highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics influencing the border situation and Pakistan’s broader security concerns.
Even opposition voices joined the chorus of support. PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan acknowledged Pakistan’s desire for peaceful relations with its neighbors but made it clear that the country would not hesitate to respond forcefully to any threats. He affirmed the nation’s solidarity with the armed forces and underscored the importance of a strong and united response to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty.
As Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq continues, the unanimous backing from Pakistan’s political leadership sends a clear message both domestically and internationally: Pakistan remains steadfast in defending its borders and will respond decisively to any acts of aggression. This rare moment of political cohesion reflects the gravity of the situation and the collective commitment to national security.
