Rawalpindi, March 19,2026: Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Asim Munir has reiterated Pakistan’s firm resolve to eliminate terrorism and its infrastructure “wherever they may be” through precise, intelligence-based operations, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Thursday.
During an interaction with Ulema of Ahl-e-Tasheeh community in Rawalpindi, the army chief stressed that the Afghan Taliban must ensure that Afghan soil is not used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. He underscored that lasting peace in the region depends on mutual responsibility and cooperation.
The COAS also highlighted Pakistan’s decision to announce a temporary pause in the ongoing Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, citing the upcoming Eidul Fitr and requests from brotherly Islamic countries. The pause, announced by Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, will remain in effect from midnight March 18-19 to midnight March 23-24.
According to the military’s media wing, Field Marshal Munir pointed to Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic efforts aimed at regional de-escalation, particularly in the context of the ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Emphasizing internal cohesion, he called upon religious scholars to play a constructive role in promoting unity and countering extremism. “Religious sentiments must not be exploited to incite violence,” he said, adding that violence in Pakistan triggered by events in other countries would not be tolerated.
He further highlighted the importance of ulema in combating misinformation, sectarian narratives, and externally sponsored destabilisation efforts, while fostering tolerance and national harmony.
Participants of the meeting expressed strong support for peace and stability in the country and condemned violence in the name of religion. They also pledged full backing to law enforcement agencies in maintaining order.
Operation Ghazab lil-Haq was launched on February 26 following cross-border firing incidents attributed to the Afghan Taliban. Since its inception, the operation has reportedly resulted in the killing of 707 militants, with over 938 injured. Authorities also claimed the destruction of 255 militant posts, while 44 were captured.
Additionally, 237 tanks, armoured vehicles, and artillery pieces were destroyed, and 81 locations inside Afghanistan were targeted through airstrikes, according to official figures.
Officials have warned that while the ceasefire is a goodwill gesture in line with Islamic traditions, any cross-border aggression or terrorist activity will trigger an immediate resumption of operations with renewed intensity.
