In a recent Podcast at NHS Media, Dr. Qamar Cheema offered a comprehensive analysis of the intricate security landscape in Pakistan.
Key Points
- The security landscape in Pakistan is intricately tied to the government’s efficiency, where effective governance fosters peace, while inefficiencies contribute to chaos and instability within the nation.
- Recent notable security incidents highlight the multifaceted challenges confronting the nation, with external factors like military advancements by neighbouring countries such as India exacerbating the situation.
- This situation necessitates a comprehensive and varied approach to tackle these challenges, including enhancing border security measures and rethinking trade relations to fortify national security and readiness in response to evolving threats.
Dr. Cheema highlighted how perceptions of the government’s ability to deal with terrorist groups in the country are closely linked to periods of peace and chaos. Dr. Cheema further discussed two recent, concerning incidents: the attack on PAF Base Mianwali and the attack in Gwadar, Baluchistan, where 17 Army soldiers lost their lives.
These attacks raise critical concerns, as Pakistan’s security forces have faced similar threats in the past, with even the partial damage of the PC3 Orion Aircraft, which was given by the United States to Pakistan for intelligence operations in the Indian and Arabian Oceans.
Dr. Cheema identified three key concerns about the current security situation in the country
- The Perpetrators Determining who is responsible for these attacks remains a pressing question, as it impacts subsequent actions and responses.
- The Masterminds Understanding the entities behind these attacks are equally important. Identifying the orchestrators sheds light on the motivations and strategies at play.
- Pakistan’s Position Assessing where Pakistan stands in the light of these attacks is crucial for formulating an effective response.
Dr. Cheema discussed the evolving situation in Pakistan, marked by upcoming general elections and the government’s deportation of illegal Afghan immigrants, which presents significant challenges. Islamic political parties and army installations are at increased risk due to their efforts to disrupt ideological supply lines to terrorist groups. Additionally, the connection between these groups and Afghanistan, particularly the Afghan Taliban, raises concerns about cross-border terrorism.
While terrorist groups aspire to take hold of Pakistani territory and establish no-go areas, Pakistan’s security forces have consistently thwarted their efforts. However, the evolving strategies of groups like Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) pose new challenges. These groups are now operating in two distinct regions, North and South Pakistan, and have established shadow ministries.
Dr. Cheema explained that notably, TTP has garnered significant influence from the Afghan government, indicating a complex web of connections and funding sources, including certain hostile agencies within Pakistan. This situation seeks to portray Pakistan negatively on the global stage.
He stressed that the overarching concern is not the effectiveness of Pakistan’s security forces but the vulnerabilities that allowed these attacks on sensitive installations. TTP’s alliances with the Punjab Taliban, Kashmiri militant groups, Baluchistan militant groups, and various ethnic factions signify a formidable threat. TTP’s transformation into a larger, operationally stronger force comprising approximately 12,000 militants warrants careful consideration.
The recent initiative by Pakistan’s caretaker government to deport illegal Afghan refugees prompted security threats presented by the Afghan Taliban through the attacks mentioned above. Dr. Cheema argues that a more comprehensive approach is required to address Afghanistan’s role in fostering anti-Pakistan groups. This approach includes strict border controls and the cessation of trade relations to contain security challenges.
While concluding the discussion, Dr. Qamar Cheema analyzed the complex and evolving security challenges facing Pakistan. It necessitates a multifaceted strategy that focuses on strengthening border security, addressing cross-border threats, and reevaluating relationships with Afghanistan. The critical need for vigilance and prompt decisions to enhance national security is underscored in his insightful analysis.
