Ali Anwar
Pakistan has once again demonstrated its unwavering resolve against terrorism. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Operation Radd-ul-Fitnah One has been successfully completed, during which a total of 216 terrorists were eliminated. These actions were carried out swiftly and in a coordinated manner on the basis of credible intelligence, targeting elements working under Indian patronage that sought to sabotage peace and development in Balochistan and across Pakistan by attacking innocent civilians, including women and children.
This operation was not merely a military action but a powerful manifestation of national determination, professional excellence, and timely decision-making. The Pakistan Army proved that it is fully aware of the enemy’s intentions and possesses the complete capability to neutralize them decisively.
On January 29, 2026, operations were launched in the outskirts of Panjgur and Harnai following confidential intelligence inputs. At that critical moment, the state chose to act decisively to prevent a potential large-scale tragedy. In the initial phase alone, 41 terrorists affiliated with Indian proxy networks were killed. This early success clearly demonstrated that the intelligence was accurate, timely, and effective.
Subsequently, intelligence-based combing and clearance operations were conducted across multiple areas. These operations were executed in a highly organized and methodical manner, ensuring that terrorists were given no opportunity to regroup or escape. As a result of this coordinated strategy, a total of 216 terrorists were neutralized. In addition, foreign-made weapons, ammunition, and large quantities of explosives were recovered, underscoring the scale of destruction the enemy had planned.
The success of any major counterterrorism operation lies in thorough preparation. The Pakistan Army drew upon years of counterterrorism experience, ensuring close coordination among intelligence agencies, effective deployment of ground forces, and the use of modern technology. These factors combined to deliver a decisive blow to terrorist networks. The operations were commendably swift, precise, and targeted.
One of the most difficult challenges in counterterrorism is the protection of civilian lives. Keeping this responsibility at the forefront, the Pakistan Army adopted an extremely cautious approach, even as terrorists attempted to use civilians as human shields. Despite these efforts, 36 innocent civilians, including women and children, were targeted by terrorists and embraced martyrdom. This loss is a profound tragedy for the entire nation. Similarly, 22 security personnel sacrificed their lives while defending the motherland and protecting citizens. These brave soldiers are the sons of the nation whose sacrifices sustain the flame of peace. Their blood symbolizes Pakistan’s resolve to never bow before terrorism. The entire nation salutes these martyrs and honors the patience and resilience of their families.
According to ISPR, the operation severely damaged the leadership, command-and-control structure, and operational capacity of terrorist networks. This means that not only were militants eliminated on the ground, but their organizational framework was also dismantled. Disrupting command and control represents the greatest setback for any terrorist organization, as it cripples its ability to plan and execute coordinated attacks. Thus, Radd-ul-Fitnah One neutralized immediate threats while significantly weakening the potential for future violence.
The fact that 41 terrorists killed in the initial phase were linked to Indian proxy networks further highlights the involvement of external elements in efforts to destabilize Pakistan. The recovery of foreign-made weapons and explosives reinforces this assessment.
In such circumstances, the Pakistan Army’s timely and decisive action was essential not only for internal security but also as a clear message to the international community that Pakistan will neither allow its soil to be used against any state nor tolerate aggression against its sovereignty.
According to the ISPR spokesperson, Operation Radd-ul-Fitnah One reflects the collective resolve of the people of Balochistan and Pakistan for peace, unity, and development. Balochistan, a province rich in natural resources and of immense strategic importance, has long been targeted by hostile forces. This operation has reaffirmed that the state will make no compromise on the peace and stability of Balochistan.
ISPR has further clarified that counterterrorism operations will continue with full force until terrorism is completely eradicated. This reflects the understanding that the fight against terrorism does not end with a single operation but is a sustained and ongoing struggle. In the past, Pakistan dismantled terrorist networks through successful operations such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad. Radd-ul-Fitnah One is another vital link in this continuum, demonstrating the Pakistan Army’s ability to adapt its strategies to evolving threats.
It is the duty of the entire nation to pay tribute to the Pakistan Army, intelligence agencies, and security forces for the success of Operation Radd-ul-Fitnah One. Their professionalism, courage, sacrifice, and timely decisions protected the country from a grave threat.
This success serves as a reminder that peace demands constant vigilance, sacrifice, and perseverance. The Pakistan Army has once again proven that it is not only the guardian of the nation’s borders but also the guarantor of internal peace. The elimination of 216 terrorists, the crippling of their leadership networks, and the recovery of vast caches of weapons affirm that the state remains fully alert and resolute.
Although the sacrifices of 36 innocent civilians and 22 brave soldiers represent an irreparable loss, their blood strengthens the nation’s resolve to continue the fight against terrorism. Today, the entire nation salutes its security forces and reaffirms its belief that this struggle will persist until the last terrorist is eliminated.
The Pakistan Army’s timely action and unwavering determination remain the guarantee of a bright, secure, and peaceful future for Pakistan.
The writer is an old Aitchisonian who believes in freedom of expression, a freelance columnist, entrepreneur and social activist.
