While briefing senior journalists on security operations carried out in 2025, the DG ISPR said that counter-terrorism actions this year were more intense than ever before.

He stated that law-enforcement agencies conducted 75,175 intelligence-based operations across the country. These included 14,658 operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 58,778 in Balochistan, and 1,739 in other regions.

He revealed that 27 suicide attacks took place last year, while a total of 5,397 terrorist incidents were reported nationwide. In the fight against terrorism, 1,235 people embraced martyrdom, whereas 2,597 terrorists were eliminated.

Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif emphasized that the National Action Plan (NAP) had the backing of all political parties and that full implementation is the only path to peace.

He raised concern over the rising number of attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, blaming a dangerous political-criminal-terror nexus that has taken root in the province.

Speaking about regional challenges, he said that under the Doha Agreement, Afghan soil was not supposed to be used for terrorism. However, in reality, Afghanistan has become a base of operations for multiple terrorist groups. These groups are launching attacks not only against Pakistan but also against other countries in the region.

He disclosed that Al Qaeda, BLA targeting Pakistan, Indian backed DTP, Fitna e Khawarij, ETIM against China, IMU targeting Central Asia, and groups hostile to Iran are all operating from Afghan territory.

The DG ISPR further shared that after recent administrative changes in Syria, around 2,500 foreign terrorists moved to Afghanistan, none of whom were Pakistani. Afghan Taliban forces helped organize these militants, especially Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), by providing structure, training, and operational guidance.

A false narrative was also built to boost recruitment.

He highlighted the role of the war economy, stating that billions of dollars are involved. When funding dries up, terrorism is spread across regions to keep the conflict alive and attract new sponsors.

Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif accused India of providing financial support, logistics, and patronage to terrorist elements. He said that during Maarka e Haq, India was given a clear message, and it was necessary to teach a lesson. Although terrorist incidents increased after operations in Afghanistan, he reaffirmed that the state will defeat terrorism through force and resolve.

He noted that terrorists are using advanced night vision devices, long range sniper rifles, bulletproof gear, and modern M series weapons, proving that they are being highly equipped and externally supported.

He warned that when the political process weakens, internal facilitation grows, giving terrorists space to operate. Terrorism, he said, is a deadly disease with no room for compromise.

Referring to October operations along the Pak Afghan border, he said Pakistan responded swiftly and decisively, striking terrorist hideouts within hours and sealing the border. These actions led to a sharp rise in terrorist casualties, showing that when the state stands firm, results follow.

The DG ISPR concluded by saying that the international community has acknowledged Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, and the state’s message is loud and clear, the nation stands united against terrorism.