July 8, 2024
By Mateen Ali
LAHORE
Thousands rallied against the military operation, Azm-e-Istehkam, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Lakki Marwat and Torghar areas on July 7.
Tribesmen protested in Lakki Marwat, demanding the government to refrain from launching the Azm-e-Istehkam military operation. Waving white flags, protesters urged the government to ensure peace, address the root causes of terrorism, and not add to their troubles.
Concerns about the military operation are growing across the province despite the federal government’s clarification that it’s not a new operation but support for ongoing military action against terrorists.
In Torghar district, many youth protested against the operation, fearing mass displacement of innocent civilians. The rallies highlight widespread concerns over the potential fallout of military actions in the region.
On July 6, the people of Mohmand district also opposed the anticipated military operation at a rally.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), and Awami National Party (ANP) have already rejected the operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Army top brass debunks criticism
At the 265th Corps Commanders’ Conference on Friday, July 5, the top army brass noted with concern the unwarranted criticism of Azm-e-Istehkam by some quarters, and “deliberate misrepresentation of the vision for vested interests.”
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the forum reviewed the internal and external security situation and discussed various aspects of the operation.
“Azm-e-Istehkam is aimed at harnessing the national counter-terrorism efforts in a synchronised manner to dismantle the nexus of terrorism and illegal activities in the country for enduring stability and economic prosperity,” the press release said.