Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for national unity and dialogue to combat terrorism following the hijacking of the Jaffar Express in Balochistan’s Bolan district. The attack, carried out by militants of the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), left 25 people dead, including 21 passengers and four security personnel. Security forces launched a two-day operation, successfully eliminating 33 terrorists and rescuing 339 hostages.
Arriving in Quetta on Thursday, the prime minister met with security officials and reviewed the situation. Addressing the media, he stressed that political and military leaders must work together to confront terrorism.
Shehbaz Emphasizes National Consensus
PM Shehbaz highlighted the need for complete unity in the fight against terrorism. He lamented the political divide and called for a meeting to develop a joint strategy.
“We will continue our politics, but on the crucial issue of national security, we must stand together,” he stated. He assured that security forces would receive all necessary resources to counter terrorism effectively.
Condemning the Attack
Shehbaz strongly condemned the terrorists, criticizing their disregard for the sanctity of Ramazan. He stated that such an unprecedented attack could not be ignored. He praised the security forces for their bravery and swift response.
“The terrorists have been sent to hell, but we cannot afford such incidents again,” he declared, urging federal and provincial authorities to take collective action.
Read: Pakistan Train Hijacking: 30-Hour Siege Ends in Bloodshed
Security and Development in Balochistan
The prime minister stressed that Pakistan’s peace and prosperity depended on eradicating terrorism, especially in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He emphasized that Balochistan’s development must align with the rest of the country.
“Pakistan cannot progress unless Balochistan moves forward at the same pace as other provinces,” he stated.
Criticism of Past Policies
PM Shehbaz criticized the previous government’s decision to resettle Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) fighters, blaming it for the recent resurgence of terrorism. He also condemned those who spread anti-security forces rhetoric, comparing it to narratives pushed by hostile foreign media.
“No one has the right to malign our soldiers, who sacrifice their lives for Pakistan’s peace,” he asserted.
Commitment to Eradicating Terrorism
During a high-level security meeting, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed the government’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism. He called the train hijacking an “unforgivable atrocity” and vowed to bring all perpetrators to justice.
“Pakistan’s Armed Forces have already taken decisive action. The terrorists and their facilitators will be hunted down and eliminated,” he declared.
The meeting’s participants pledged to uphold national security and strengthen counter-terrorism efforts. Shehbaz also met with provincial leaders, appreciating their commitment to long-term reforms and development in Balochistan.
Future Steps for Stability
The prime minister warned that terrorism posed an existential threat to Pakistan. He stressed the need for political unity, enhanced security measures, and sustained development to ensure lasting peace.
“We must act decisively today to secure our country’s future,” he concluded.
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