No political leader's desire for power should surpass Pakistan's interests: ISPR DG

• All political parties, leaders respectable to army: Lt Gen Chaudhry.
• ISPR DG welcomes dialogue among politicians to resolve issues.
• "Officer prioritising politics over state will be held accountable."

RAWALPINDI: Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said on Friday that no political leader's desire for power should be more important than Pakistan's interests.

"All political parties and leaders are respectable to us. No individual, his politics and his desire for power are above Pakistan," the military's spokesperson said during a media briefing at the General Headquarters, Rawalpindi.

The ISPR DG's comments came in response to a question about purported backdoor talks between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the establishment. The reporter also mentioned that there were reports of a certain "officer" being involved amid talks between the government and the PTI.

He explained that the Pakistan Army has professional and governmental relations with every government. However, he noted that since political parties form governments, it wasn't "appropriate" to paint this "governmental and professional relation" as political.

"Pakistan Army is a national force and it does not belong to a specific school of thought or party," the military's spokesperson said.

Currently, he said, the parties having majority support have made the governments in the centre and provinces. Holding talks among political parties and responding to them is the prerogative of the political parties.

"Nevertheless, it is welcoming that politicians sit together to resolve the matters among themselves instead of through anarchist and violent politics."

The ISPR DG welcomed the notion of dialogue among politicians to resolve their issues. "It is encouraging that politicians sit together and solve their problems through conversation."

Faiz Hamid's trial

When asked about the court martial of former spy chief Faiz Hamid, the ISPR DG was of the view that Pakistan Army's accountability system is comprehensive and it works on evidence rather than allegations.

"If someone uses its designation for personal or political interest then the system of self-accountability comes into action," he said. However, he noted, during a military trial, the suspect is entitled to all legal rights including receiving counsellor service and presenting evidence and the same goes for Faiz Hamid.

Lt Gen Chaudhry said that a conspiracy was hatched for the May 9 events, adding that it is necessary to bring the culprits to justice as per the constitution and law.

"For every army officer, the state of Pakistan and the army hold priority," he said, clarifying that neither Pakistan army is against any thinking or ideology nor in favour of one. He added that if any officer prioritises politics over the state he would be held accountable.

Terming the Hamid's case 'sensitive', he said that subjudice and sensitive matters were linked to it, therefore "unwarranted analysis and discussion should be avoided at this time".

'Long war against terrorism'

Highlighting the armed forces' prolonged and continued battle against terrorism, the military's spokesperson noted that the outgoing year has witnessed the highest number of terrorists eliminated compared to the past five years.

"Pakistan has fought a long war against terrorism and is still fighting. It has rendered highly valued sacrifices in this fight," he said.

He said that over 59,779 intelligence-based operations were carried out against terrorists during the past year. During these operations, 925 terrorists, including khawarij, were killed and several others were arrested. 

This was the biggest number of terrorists killed in a single year during the past 5 years, the military's spokesperson said. 

Lt Gen Chaudhry said that the Pakistan Army and other law enforcement agencies, including police, have been conducting more than 169 operations to counter the scourge of terrorism daily. 

He went on to say that the armed forces have successfully thwarted numerous terrorist plots as well. 

During various operations, a significant quantity of weapons was recovered from terrorist hideouts, demonstrating the scale of the threat and the success of counter-terrorism efforts, he added. 

He also emphasised that several high-profile terrorists were neutralised in these operations, marking a critical achievement in the fight against extremism.

Additionally, 73 most-wanted terrorists were eliminated, further strengthening the nation's resolve to eradicate terrorism in all its forms, he added. 

Lt Gen Chaudhry said that two suicide bombers were also apprehended, while 14 wanted terrorists surrendered to the authorities. He further shared that 383 officers and soldiers have embraced martyrdom in the ongoing fight against terrorism.

'Value of blood'

While highlighting the achievements in the fight against terrorism, the army's spokesperson shed light on the lives laid in the way of country's defence. 

He posed a question regarding the sacrifices of Pakistan’s soldiers, saying: "Is there no value for the blood of the soldiers who laid down their lives fighting the menace of insurgency?"

He highlighted the tremendous cost being borne by the armed forces. "Everyone must realise that our soldiers are paying the price for these decisions with their blood," he added.

Referring to a recent tragic incident, the army’s spokesperson said: "Sixteen FC soldiers were martyred just six days ago. Does their blood hold no value?" 

Highlighting regional challenges, the ISPR DG said that Pakistan has consistently worked towards establishing peace in Afghanistan. However, despite these efforts, terrorist activities originating from Afghan soil continue to pose a threat to Pakistan, he added. 

He emphasised that the roots of terrorism are often traced back to Afghanistan, and Pakistan remains determined to dismantle terrorist networks without compromise.

The military's spokesperson also pointed out that significant progress has been made in curbing smuggling, marking an achievement in enhancing border security and economic stability.

Menace of terrorism persists due to cross-border hostility

He also noted the ongoing repatriation of undocumented Afghan nationals, emphasising that the process is being conducted systematically.

Addressing the fight against terrorism, the ISPR DG provided an overview of the military's operations. He further revealed that 27 Afghan terrorists were eliminated, and detained suicide bombers from Balochistan have made shocking confessions about their indoctrination.

Highlighting the army’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism were, he said: "This year, 383 officers and soldiers have laid down their lives for the nation."

He said that the menace of terrorism persists due to cross-border activities. "Networks operating from Afghan soil continue to target Pakistan, but we are resolute in eliminating them."

The ISPR DG emphasised the importance of prioritising Pakistan’s security in dealings with Afghanistan. "We want Afghanistan to ensure that insurgents are not given precedence over Pakistan," he remarked.

He further revealed that discussions with Afghanistan are ongoing through friendly nations. "Dialogue is also being conducted with Afghanistan through our allied countries," Lt Gen Chaudhry confirmed.

The ISPR DG called for a united national effort to combat terrorism, asserting: "The entire nation must stand together with institutions to fight this scourge. A secure Pakistan is a strong Pakistan."

He stressed that the root causes of terrorism must be addressed. "Terrorism will only be eradicated when we ensure justice, education, healthcare, and good governance," he said, adding: "It will also require dismantling the nexus between terrorism and organised crime."

May 9 and military courts

The news conference comes a day after a military court sentenced 60 individuals for involvement in May 9 violent protests.

While responding to a question, Lt Gen Chaudhry made it clear that the events of May 9, 2023, were not just the army's issue but one that concerned the entire nation. "The case of May 9 is not the case of the Pakistan Army, it is the case of the people of Pakistan," he said.

He clarified that military courts have been a part of Pakistan's judicial system for decades, in line with the constitution and law.

"Military courts have been established for decades, in accordance with the constitution and law," he said. He also pointed out that these courts had received validation from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

"The ICJ has also ratified military courts," he said. Lt Gen Chaudhry reassured that the legal process was thorough, allowing for multiple levels of appeals.

"The accused can appeal the sentence in the Court of Appeal, the Army Chief, the High Court, and the Supreme Court," he explained. He made it clear that anyone involved in similar incidents in the future would face similar consequences.

"If anyone is involved in such incidents in the future, they will be punished," he warned.

The ISPR DG highlighted that military courts provide the accused with the right to legal representation, witnesses, and evidence.

"In military courts, the accused have the right to bring witnesses and evidence," he clarified. The military's spokesperson also reminded that those who were now criticising the military courts had previously supported them.

"Those who are speaking now were the ones who previously supported military courts," he said.

Recalling that the people who are against the military court sentencing had earlier claimed that the army was involved in the May 9 attacks, he said: "They used to say that it was the army's people who did this, so now be happy that our own people are being punished."

Referring to the political instability in the West, he remarked: "In Western countries, political extremists are not given a platform." He expressed concern over the impact of toxic propaganda, particularly on young people.

"Young people have been manipulated through toxic propaganda to stand against institutions and the state," he said.

Lt Gen Chaudhry advised parents to recognise how their children had been exploited in this regard. "Parents should see how their children have been used," he said.

He also pointed out the role of some individuals in poisoning the minds of the youth for their own political gains. "Some people poison the minds of the youth for their own political purposes," he added.

The ISPR DG concluded by saying that the pursuit of justice would continue until the planners and perpetrators of May 9 face legal consequences.

"The process of justice will continue until the planners and actors of May 9 are brought to justice," he affirmed.

Coordinated conspiracy behind May 9 events

Lt Gen Chaudhry also shed light on May 9, revealing: "There was a coordinated conspiracy and planning behind the events."

He made it clear that those involved in this plot must be held accountable, saying: "It is essential to bring those involved in this conspiracy to justice."

Reflecting on the continuity of the situation, he noted, "Even in November 2024, we saw the continuation of the events of May 9."

The ISPR DG referred to the Ministry of Interior's statement issued earlier this month, explaining that "On December 1, the Ministry of Interior issued a detailed statement."

He further clarified that the military was not deployed to control violent crowds, saying: "The military was not deployed to control the violent mobs." He highlighted that the deployment of the army was limited to the Red Zone.

Lt Gen Chaudhry clarified that the security personnel deployed in Islamabad were not given firearms during the November protest, saying: "The security personnel assigned to Islamabad were not provided with any firearms." 

He also said that when the political leadership fled the scene, "false propaganda" was spread on social media.

The ISPR DG pointed out that the law allows peaceful protests, but violence goes beyond that. "The law allows you to protest peacefully," he said.

"However, if you attack the police or Rangers, that is political terrorism." He also highlighted the role of fake news in escalating violence, saying: "When armed groups attack the federation, it happens because of fake news and false propaganda."

Referring to the false narratives spread by certain individuals, he said: "On November 26, they presented a narrative that thousands of people were killed."

Lt Gen Chaudhry expressed concern about the control of destabilising politics, emphasising: "The control of disruptive politics does not lie with political leaders within the country."

He further added that the control of this disruptive politics lies with individuals outside the country."

The ISPR DG also raised concerns about the silence of human rights organisations, saying: "How come human rights organisations come forward only in certain situations?"

Discussing the role of armed guards and violent mobs, Lt Gen Chaudhry pointed out: "The political leadership’s armed guards and individuals within the crowd were carrying firearms." He also remarked that the presence of weapons among the protesters was visible, noting, "We saw weapons with the protesters on the media and social media."

The army's spokesperson explained that fake news was used to divert attention from the chaos. "Fake news was used to distract from the meaningless unrest."

He further asserted that the army does not take sides with any particular political party or ideology, saying: "The army is neither opposed to nor in support of any particular political party or ideology."

Addressing the conspiracy behind the events of November 26, Lt Gen Chaudhry stressed that it was a form of political terrorism.

"The thinking behind the conspiracy of November 26 is political terrorism," he said.

He also condemned the false narrative surrounding the martyrdom of thousands of workers, saying: "On November 26, a false narrative was spread about the martyrdom of thousands of workers."

The ISPR DG voiced concern over the manipulation of public trust, saying that "they are confident that they can sell any lie".

'Army ready for decisive response to Indian hostility'

Lt Gen Chaudhry emphasised the military’s continued commitment to enhancing border security. "We have seen a marked decline in unauthorised movements across our borders, reflecting the effectiveness of our measures," he said during the briefing.

Discussing regional tensions, Lt Gen Chaudhry reaffirmed the Pakistan Army's readiness to counter any aggression from India.

"The Pakistan Army possesses the capability to deliver a decisive response to any Indian hostility," he said. 

Lt Gen Chaudhry highlighted the persistent threats emanating from the eastern border, saying: "We are fully aware of the dangers posed by India along our eastern front."

He said that Indian forces have violated the ceasefire agreement 25 times this year, underscoring the volatile nature of the region.

Lt Gen Chaudhry condemned India’s oppressive measures against freedom movements within its states. "Indian forces are using brutal tactics to suppress movements for independence," he said.

Despite these challenges, he reassured that Pakistan's armed forces remain steadfast in their commitment to national security and public welfare.

He also condemned India’s ongoing oppression in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

"India has turned occupied Kashmir into a hotbed of violence, and its blatant violations of international laws are evident to the world," the ISPR DG remarked.

He expressed solidarity with the oppressed Kashmiris, adding: "We stand firmly with the people of occupied Kashmir and will continue to provide them with legal, diplomatic, and moral support."

Furthermore, Lt Gen Chaudhry accused the Indian government of targeting minorities, including Sikhs, both within its borders and abroad. "India’s systematic genocide of minorities and involvement in killing Sikhs internationally exposes its agenda," he said, adding that such actions are part of a larger conspiracy.

Lt Gen Chaudhry also called attention to India’s diversionary tactics, including false flag operations, aimed at deflecting attention from its internal issues.

"Our civil and military leadership is fully aware of India’s strategies to shift focus from its own problems," he stressed.

Reiterating the military's stance, the ISPR DG said: "We will continue to defend our borders and uphold the rights of oppressed communities, particularly in occupied Kashmir, with unwavering resolve."

ISPR DG reiterates unwavering support for Kashmiris

Lt Gen Chaudhry reiterated Pakistan's unwavering support for the people of occupied Kashmir.

"Our principled stance remains firm: we will continue to extend legal, diplomatic, and moral support to the oppressed people of occupied Kashmir," he said.

The army's spokesperson emphasised the military's solidarity with the Kashmiri people, standing by their rightful struggle for justice and self-determination.

Discussing the military’s contributions to public welfare, Lt Gen Chaudhry highlighted the Pakistan Army’s active engagement in social and community development projects.

"The Pakistan Army is wholeheartedly involved in initiatives aimed at public welfare, focusing on improving the lives of the people," he said.

The ISPR DG also spoke about the robust training framework within the armed forces. "Training begins from the very first day of joining the Pakistan Army," he explained, adding that a variety of training programmes are continuously conducted to ensure the highest standards of readiness and professionalism.

"Extensive exercises, both within the army and in collaboration with allied nations, are a regular feature of our operations," Lt Gen Chaudhry noted.

Lt Gen Chaudhry urged collective responsibility to address national challenges effectively.

"The need of the hour is for all of us to come together and play our roles, both individually and collectively, to contribute to the nation’s progress and security," he remarked.

The spokesperson detailed the ongoing public welfare initiatives under the guidance of Army Chief General Asim Munir.

"Projects aimed at the betterment of the people are being actively pursued," he said. He shared notable progress, including the launch of 6,500 educational programmes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the construction of three dams in Balochistan, which aim to enhance the quality of life in these regions.

Highlighting the Pakistan Army’s role in national development, the army's spokesperson mentioned several public welfare projects initiated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Balochistan.

"The military actively participates in projects aimed at improving the lives of citizens," he said. These efforts, he noted, demonstrate the army’s commitment to social and economic progress across the country.

The military's spokesperson also touched on the issue of misinformation, describing it as a growing challenge. "Pakistan faces billions of rupees’ worth of illegal spectrums, part of which fuels fake news," he explained.