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Azm-e-Istehkam: Pakistan's new military operation to take on TTP and other militant groups

Azm-e-Istehkam: Pakistan's new military operation to take on TTP and other militant groups

TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Updated: Jun 25, 2024, 15:56 IST

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The Pakistani government has approved a revitalized national counter-terrorism campaign, Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, aimed at eradicating extremism and terrorism from the country. However, Pakistan’s government is making efforts to build a nationwide “consensus” before it launches the new military operation against militants, the defense minister said.

Azm-e-Istehkam: Pakistan's new military operation to take on TTP and other militant groups

China has pressured Pakistan to crack down on the armed violence against CPEC targets.

Since 2001, Pakistan's military has conducted many high-profile operations like "Zarb-e-Azb", "Rah-e-Nijat", "Rah-e-Rast" and many more against homegrown militants in border areas. It seems it's time for another military operation against militants in Pakistan. But the Pakistan military has failed to root out these militant groups time and again.
However, under pressure from China, the Pakistan government has again approved a new military campaign named Azm-e-Istehkam, meaning "Resolve for Stability." This initiative, announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif after a review of the country's counterterrorism efforts, aims to address domestic security threats and the activities of armed fighters crossing over from Afghanistan.

The operation comes amid heightened tensions between Islamabad and the Taliban rulers in Kabul.
What they're saying

“A soft state can never gain the trust of investors,” PM Shehbaz remarked. “The responsibility of the fight against terrorism is the collective duty and the primary obligation of all state institutions. It’s not about you and me, it’s about us, we have to trample it together.”
"The campaign will be complemented by socioeconomic measures aimed at addressing genuine concerns of the people and creating an environment that discourages extremist tendencies," said a statement from Sharif's office.
Ihsanullah Tipu, a security analyst, noted, "Pakistan views the use of active military force as the most effective approach to counter armed violence."
Some analysts suggest that the operation's timing may also be influenced by domestic political and economic considerations. Asfandyar Mir of the US Institute of Peace said, "With the election done and a government in place, and the economic situation stabilizing, Pakistani leadership probably feels confident to pursue a vigorous campaign."

What is the main objective of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam?

The primary objective of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam is to curb the surge in violence and armed attacks within Pakistan. This includes addressing domestic security threats and dealing with armed fighters crossing over from Afghanistan. The operation also aims to implement socioeconomic measures to create an environment that discourages extremist tendencies.

Why now?

The timing of the operation is linked to a dramatic increase in violent incidents over the last 18 months. Most of these attacks have been claimed by the TTP, which ended a ceasefire in November 2022.
Additionally, recent attacks targeting Chinese interests in Pakistan have further underscored the urgency of a robust military response.
Pakistan has seen nearly 1,000 casualties from almost 700 incidents of violence in 2023. Attacks targeting Chinese installations and personnel have increased, highlighting the stakes for Pakistan's key ally, China, which has invested $62 billion in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Senior Chinese officials have also emphasized the need for improved security for Chinese nationals and investments in Pakistan.

How will the operation be different from previous military campaigns?

Unlike previous large-scale military operations that required mass displacement of local populations, Azm-e-Istehkam is not intended to be a kinetic large-scale military campaign. The focus will be on augmenting the efforts of armed forces with intelligence-based operations and legal measures to address terrorism-related cases. The operation is described as a “multi-domain, multi-agency, whole of the system national vision” for enduring stability.

What are the potential challenges to the success of this operation?

Security analysts highlight several challenges, including the transient nature of TTP bases in Pakistan and the risk of escalating tensions with Afghanistan if cross-border operations are conducted. Additionally, the lack of public support for security forces in provinces heavily affected by violence could hinder the operation’s effectiveness. There is also the issue of diverging approaches between Pakistan and China regarding the Taliban in Afghanistan, a report in AlJazeera said.

What has been the reaction of opposition parties to this operation?

Opposition parties, including the PTI, JUI-F, and ANP, have expressed significant criticism of the operation. They argue that it could worsen the volatile situation in border regions and have questioned the government's decision-making process, claiming it lacked sufficient consultation with parliament and local stakeholders.

How has China reacted to recent attacks targeting its nationals and investments in Pakistan?

China has expressed strong concerns over the security of its nationals and investments in Pakistan, urging the Pakistani government to take effective measures to protect them. Following attacks on Chinese engineers and installations, Chinese officials have reiterated the importance of security and the need to protect Chinese interests in the country.

Will the operation affect Pakistan’s relationship with Afghanistan?

The operation could strain already tense relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly if cross-border military actions are taken. The Taliban government in Kabul has consistently denied harboring TTP militants, and any escalation of military activities could complicate diplomatic relations further.

(With inputs from agencies)

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