In a comprehensive press conference, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry addressed critical national issues, emphasizing accountability for the May 9 unrest, ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, regional security challenges, and internal stability measures. His remarks underscored the military’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring national stability amid evolving security dynamicsHis remarks underscored the military’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring national stability amid evolving security dynamicsHis remarks underscored the military’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring national stability amid evolving security dynamicsHis remarks underscored the military’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring national stability amid evolving security dynamicsHis remarks underscored the military’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring national stability amid evolving security dynamicsHis remarks underscored the military’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring national stability amid evolving security dynamicsHis remarks underscored the military’s commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensuring national stability amid evolving security dynamics.
Regarding the May 9 violent protests, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry reiterated that those responsible for planning and executing the unrest will face justice. He emphasized that the accountability process will continue until every planner is held fully responsible. Stressing the importance of national interest above political ambitions, he reaffirmed the military’s respect for all political parties while maintaining a firm stance against political manipulation. He welcomed dialogue among political factions as a constructive approach to resolving national challenges and encouraged political leaders to engage in meaningful conversations to address the country’s pressing issues.
Highlighting Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, the DG ISPR shared key statistics from 2024. Security forces conducted over 59,775 operations, resulting in the elimination of 925 terrorists, including members of groups like Fitna al Khawarij. Among them were 73 high-value targets, including militant leaders from Malakand and Zhob divisions. Additionally, two Afghan suicide bombers-in-training, Insafullah alias Talha and Roohullah, were apprehended. Security forces also seized substantial caches of explosives and weapons. Intelligence-based operations (IBOs) remain a critical tool in combating terrorism, with over 179 IBOs being conducted daily across the country in collaboration with law enforcement and intelligence agencies.
The DG ISPR stressed that terrorist activities in Pakistan are primarily being orchestrated from sanctuaries in Afghanistan. He emphasized Pakistan’s repeated calls to the Afghan interim government to prevent terrorist groups from using Afghan soil to launch attacks on Pakistan. Evidence consistently points to cross-border coordination of terrorism, underscoring the urgent need for the Afghan authorities to address this issue. Since September 2023, approximately 815,000 illegal Afghan citizens have been repatriated as part of efforts to strengthen internal security and prevent exploitation of Pakistan’s territory by hostile elements.
Addressing the legal proceedings related to the May 9 incidents, the DG ISPR clarified that military courts operate under constitutional provisions and are validated by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). These courts ensure fair trials with access to legal representation and evidence. He revealed that 60 individuals had been sentenced by military courts in connection with the May 9 events, while 85 others had previously been handed prison sentences ranging from two to ten years. He reiterated that these trials are being conducted transparently and in accordance with the law.
On regional security, the DG ISPR highlighted India’s repeated violations of the ceasefire agreement. In 2024 alone, Indian forces committed 25 ceasefire breaches, 564 speculative fire incidents, and 61 airspace violations. He criticized India’s aggressive posture and its continued occupation of Jammu and Kashmir, which has turned the region into a center of violence and human rights abuses. Pakistan, he affirmed, will continue its unwavering moral and diplomatic support for the people of occupied Kashmir.
Domestically, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif provided updates on internal security initiatives. He shared that 72% of mine-infested areas in tribal districts have been successfully cleared, ensuring safer living conditions for local populations. Additionally, nationwide crackdowns on smuggling, drug trafficking, electricity theft, and hoarding have produced positive outcomes, significantly curbing illegal economic activities. The implementation of the One Document Regime has further streamlined these efforts.
The DG ISPR reiterated the military’s unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s sovereignty and security. He emphasized that the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence services will continue to combat terrorism relentlessly and ensure internal stability. Dialogue, accountability, and steadfast operations against terrorism remain central pillars of Pakistan’s approach to addressing its security challenges. With a focus on transparency, cooperation, and resilience, Pakistan aims to overcome its multifaceted security and political challenges while safeguarding its national interests.
