Ali Anwar
Pakistan is currently passing through a highly sensitive and decisive phase in its history, where it is simultaneously confronted with challenges such as internal security threats, border tensions, economic pressure, and ideological warfare. Among all institutions, if there is one that has consistently made sacrifices silently, selflessly, and without seeking recognition, it is the Pakistan Army. Unfortunately, in recent times, a well-orchestrated and deliberate propaganda campaign has been launched, targeting not only the Pakistan Army but also the ideological foundations of the state of Pakistan itself.
Over the past few years, dozens of soldiers and officers of the Pakistan Army have embraced martyrdom in terrorist attacks. These are the very soldiers who remain deployed in extreme weather conditions, rugged mountainous terrain, remote outposts, and dangerous border regions, solely so that the people of Pakistan can sleep peacefully. The blood of these martyrs bears witness to the fact that Pakistan’s armed forces continue to defend the country with the same spirit of faith and national resolve, an example rarely found elsewhere in the world. The most unfortunate aspect of this situation is that even under such circumstances, certain so-called politicians refer to terrorists as “misguided brothers” and advocate negotiations with them. The question inevitably arises: can those who take up arms against the state of Pakistan, its Constitution, its people, and its defenders truly be considered worthy of dialogue?
Is it politics to rub salt into the wounds of the families of fallen soldiers? What kind of logic is this, where instead of stopping the hands that shed the blood of Pakistani citizens, sympathy is extended toward them? History is a witness to the fact that half-hearted efforts against terrorism have always failed. The menace of terrorism cannot be eliminated through negotiations or concessions; its only solution lies in the firm, clear, and uncompromising enforcement of the writ of the state.
It is a bitter reality that after terrorist elements found safe havens in Afghanistan, the wave of terrorism in Pakistan once again intensified. These terrorists infiltrating across the border are not only carrying out attacks but are also systematically attempting to sabotage sectarian harmony within Pakistan. Their objective is clear: to weaken the country from within, spread fear among the population, and undermine trust in state institutions. In such circumstances, the role of the Pakistan Army and its intelligence agencies is extremely crucial and commendable.
Through tireless efforts day and night, timely intelligence, and the use of modern technology, countless terrorist attacks have been foiled, many of which never even come to public attention. If these institutions were to show negligence even for a moment, it is chilling to imagine how dire the country’s situation could become. Within this entire scenario, India’s role is no secret. From the very beginning, India has harboured dreams of portraying Pakistan as a failed state. Whether it is terrorism in Balochistan, unrest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, or negative campaigns against Pakistan at international forums, Indian involvement is clearly visible everywhere.
By using Afghan soil, India has intensified its proxy war against Pakistan. Through financial, military, and diplomatic support to terrorist groups, efforts are being made to destroy peace in Pakistan. At the same time, hatred against the Pakistan Army is being spread via social media and certain so-called analysts, with the aim of creating a rift between the people and the armed forces.
Modern warfare is no longer fought solely with guns and ammunition; the battle to influence minds has become an integral part of conflict. The propaganda campaign against the Pakistan Army is a component of this fifth-generation warfare, designed to sow doubts in public minds, politicise sacrifices, and weaken the state narrative. This propaganda is not accidental but part of a coordinated strategy. Certain political elements, acting on signals from external masters, deliberately use language that reinforces the enemy’s narrative. These are the same elements who, instead of standing shoulder to shoulder with state institutions during national crises, choose blame and accusation. Under the leadership of Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir, the Pakistan Army has repeatedly made it clear that no concessions will be given to terrorists. This resolve was reaffirmed during the recent Corps Commanders’ Conference, where it was emphasised that those who challenge the writ of the state will be dealt with firmly. This is not merely a statement but a reflection of a clear policy that deserves the full support of the nation.
General Asim Munir’s identification of propaganda efforts is proof that the Pakistan Army is fully aware not only of military threats but also of ideological and informational warfare. This is precisely why, despite all enemy efforts, the Pakistan Army remains a disciplined, strong, and publicly supported institution.
Pakistan’s history testifies to the fact that whenever unity between the nation and the army remained strong, the enemy suffered defeat. Whether it was the war of 1965 or the long struggle against terrorism, at every stage the nation stood with its army, and the army proved itself worthy of the nation’s trust. Today, the need of the hour is to understand facts rather than be influenced by social media noise, baseless allegations, and negative propaganda. While dissent is the beauty of democracy, targeting national security and state institutions can never be justified as freedom of expression. It would not be an exaggeration to say that an attack on the Pakistan Army is, in fact, an attack on Pakistan itself.
Those who ignore this reality, knowingly or unknowingly, become instruments of the enemy. In the fight against terrorism, there is no room for ambiguity, weakness, or compromise. The time demands that the nation stand united with its armed forces, reject propaganda, and defeat the conspiracies aimed at weakening Pakistan. The Pakistan Army has always made sacrifices; now it is the responsibility of the nation to defend its protectors through its pen, voice, and collective consciousness.
The writer is an old Aitchisonian who believes in freedom of expression, a freelance columnist, entrepreneur and social activist.
