Pakistan Army Has No Interest in Harming Innocents in Name of Counterterrorism: DG ISPR

ISLAMABAD: Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has said that the Pakistan Army has no interest in harming innocent civilians in the name of counterterrorism operations.

Speaking during a special interactive session with students from Balochistan under the ongoing ISPR Internship Program, the DG ISPR addressed a range of topics concerning security, development, and the socio-political dynamics of Balochistan.

“It is a misconception that the Army targets the public during operations. No operation is successful unless locals help identify terrorists themselves. The Army does not aim to clear areas just to see terrorists return. That’s why we focus on intelligence-based operations (IBOs),” he stated.

He emphasized that Balochistan’s people are wise and deeply understand their connection with Pakistan, rejecting narratives that create a divide between the province and the state.

“We Must Work Together”

Lt Gen Sharif reiterated the need for collaborative efforts with the local population and administration to defeat terrorism. He stressed that only those who harbor terrorists or store explosives in their homes will face consequences — not entire communities.

“We cannot punish a whole village for the actions of one person. We must deal with this wisely. Our goal is peace, not violence,” he added.

A Tribute to Martyrs & Local Heroes

The DG ISPR paid tribute to Major Muhammad Anwar Kakar Shaheed, a “brilliant officer and a great son of the soil,” who previously eliminated multiple terrorists in the PC Hotel Gwadar attack.

“Every day, our officers, soldiers, and civilians lay down their lives to keep Pakistan safe,” he remarked.

Baloch Youth Rising

During the session, Gen Sharif highlighted the achievements of Baloch youth, citing success stories like:

• Samad Yar Jung, a renowned scientist from Balochistan and graduate of Cambridge University

• Shahzaib Rind, a rising star from the province shaping his own future

• Several Baloch girls serving as Deputy Commissioners in their districts

He encouraged the youth to pursue education and national integration, stating:

“Go to Balochistan and see how wise and forward-thinking its people are. The children who studied are now shaping their destinies and leading their communities.”

Unity Beyond Ethnicity

Gen Sharif reminded the audience of the foundational spirit of Pakistan, emphasizing unity beyond ethnicity, language, or race:

“The Prophet (PBUH) said no Arab is superior to a non-Arab, and no white is superior to black. Pakistan was created on the foundation of the Kalma – La Ilaha Illallah. This belief is deeply embedded in our identity.”

He noted that Balochistan’s population of 15 million includes over 30% Pashtuns, and a large portion of Baloch people also live in Sindh and South Punjab, showing the interconnectedness of Pakistan’s communities.

Operations Rooted in Local Support

Addressing the demand for a large-scale military operation in Balochistan, the DG ISPR clarified:

“Operations only succeed when people themselves stand up against terrorism — and they are. Balochistan’s people are now identifying terrorists and their facilitators. They’re tired of violence and want peace.”

The session concluded with a message of hope and solidarity, with Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif urging Baloch youth to rise above negativity and become active contributors to Pakistan’s development and unity.

Read more: “Students show unwavering support for armed forces in special session with DG ISPR”