Top military brass warn against May 9-like unrest, vow decisive action

The conference reaffirmed the importance of maintaining a high state of readiness amid the evolving security situation. It also underscored Pakistan’s stated right to self-defence and targeted action against terrorism emanating from Afghanistan. Security review.

The forum held the Taliban leadership responsible for the consequences of facilitating terrorism, alleging that it was doing so on behalf of India. The remarks came as the military leadership reviewed security challenges and reiterated its resolve to counter threats to Pakistan’s national security.

Participants appreciated the sustained intelligence-based counter-terrorism operations conducted by law enforcement agencies. However, the forum stressed that operational measures must be complemented by non-kinetic efforts to address the factors contributing to militancy and insecurity.

These measures include people-centred governance at the grassroots level, strategic engagement with the public, dismantling the terror-crime nexus allegedly operating under the patronage of vested interests, and strengthening police capabilities. The forum emphasised that these efforts should remain aligned with the National Action Plan and Vision Azm-e-Istehkam, which were referenced as frameworks for addressing the country’s security challenges.

Internal stability. The commanders underscored the importance of internal stability and reiterated their position against attempts to trigger unrest. The forum stated that any attempt to create a situation similar to the events of May 9, regardless of the pretext, would be met with decisive force and action under the rule of law, without hesitation or discrimination.

The reference to May 9 relates to the unrest that followed the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan in 2023, during which military installations and other public properties were attacked in several locations. The military leadership reiterated its resolve to respond to attempts to destabilise the country.

The conference also highlighted the need to sustain counter-terrorism efforts while strengthening governance, public engagement and law enforcement capabilities to address security concerns on multiple fronts. Regional ties. The forum welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye, describing it as a development that contributes to longstanding strategic relations and collective defence ties among the countries.

Participants also strongly condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and expressed solidarity with the Kingdom. The forum reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding the security and sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain, the two holy mosques in Makkah and Madinah.

On the Kashmir issue, the military leadership reiterated Pakistan’s stated position on Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). It also reaffirmed support for resolving the dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

The discussions reflected the forum’s focus on Pakistan’s security priorities alongside its regional partnerships and longstanding diplomatic positions. Combat readiness. In his concluding remarks, Field Marshal Asim Munir commended military formations for their operational preparedness and professionalism.

He directed commanders to maintain momentum in intelligence-based operations and continue strengthening the Armed Forces’ combat capabilities. The directions included greater absorption of modern technology, enhanced training and improved integration across multiple operational domains. The emphasis on multi-domain integration highlighted the need to develop coordinated capabilities for responding to evolving security challenges.

Munir expressed confidence that the Armed Forces, backed by the support of the nation, remained fully prepared to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.