ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have commended the security forces and law-enforcement agencies for the successful completion of Operation Radd-ul-Fitan I in Balochistan, describing it as a major blow to terrorist networks and destabilizing forces operating in the province.
According to a statement from the Presidency, President Zardari said the swift and effective response by security forces thwarted attempts by hostile elements to disrupt peace in Balochistan. He reiterated that eradicating externally sponsored terrorism remains Pakistan’s foremost national objective.
The president expressed satisfaction over the intelligence-driven and well-coordinated actions that dismantled the command and operational structures of foreign-backed terrorist groups. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families of civilians and security personnel who embraced martyrdom during the operations, honoring their sacrifices for the nation.
He emphasized that the entire nation stands united against terrorism and pays tribute to its martyrs.
In a separate statement, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the officers, troops, and leadership of the armed forces for their professionalism and determination in carrying out the operation against terrorist elements threatening stability in Balochistan.
The prime minister noted that the operation successfully neutralized the militants’ leadership, resulting in the elimination of 216 terrorists. While saluting the bravery of 22 security personnel who were martyred in the line of duty, he expressed deep sorrow over the loss of 36 civilians, including women and children, who fell victim to terrorist violence.
He reaffirmed that the sacrifices of the martyrs would always be remembered and vowed that the designs of terrorists targeting innocent people would continue to be decisively defeated.
Condemning the attacks on civilians, the prime minister said such acts exposed terrorists as enemies of Balochistan’s progress, peace, and prosperity. He reiterated the government’s unwavering resolve to continue the fight against terrorism until it is completely eliminated from the country.
He stressed that the nation stands firmly alongside the armed forces in defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring lasting peace.
