In a candid and comprehensive discussion with students, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, clarified the Pakistan Army’s position on counterterrorism and dispelled misconceptions surrounding its operations in conflict-prone areas. Addressing questions raised by students from Balochistan, the DG ISPR emphasized that the Pakistan Army has no interest whatsoever in causing harm to innocent civilians under the pretext of fighting terrorism. Instead, the Army’s primary objective is to protect the country’s sovereignty while ensuring that operations are conducted with precision and responsibility.

General Chaudhry explained that a prevailing narrative has often been imposed upon the youth, especially in Balochistan, suggesting that local communities are alienated from Pakistan or disconnected from its cause. He rejected this perception outright, asserting that the people of Balochistan, including its youth, fully understand the strong bond between their province and the state of Pakistan. He underscored that the citizens of Balochistan are resilient, patriotic, and increasingly taking ownership of their land, culture, and destiny.

The DG ISPR highlighted the example of Major Muhammad Anwar Kakar Shaheed, a distinguished officer from Balochistan, who sacrificed his life in service to the nation. Major Anwar had previously foiled a terrorist attack in Gwadar by eliminating several militants, and he ultimately gave his life while defending Pakistan’s sovereignty. According to General Chaudhry, such sacrifices illustrate the price paid daily by soldiers, officers, and civilians alike to safeguard the freedom of the nation.

During the session, General Chaudhry elaborated on the nature of military operations. He clarified that success in counterterrorism campaigns cannot simply be achieved by clearing an area temporarily, because once the Army withdraws, terrorists can return if local cooperation is absent. He stressed that intelligence-based operations (IBOs) have therefore been prioritized. These rely heavily on information provided by the community, ensuring that terrorists and their facilitators are identified with accuracy. “The Army does not conduct blind operations,” he explained. “Its role is not to punish the innocent. The Army’s goal is to eliminate terrorists, not to harm civilians.”

He further emphasized the need for shared responsibility between the armed forces and the local communities. The fight against terrorism, he argued, cannot be won without the active involvement of the people themselves. If citizens provide shelter to terrorists or store explosives in their homes, then they must be prepared to face consequences, but punishment cannot be extended to entire villages or communities. “One individual’s actions do not define a whole tribe or region,” he said.

General Chaudhry commended the growing awareness among the people of Balochistan. He remarked that communities are increasingly standing up against terrorists and exposing their networks. He described the Baloch as intelligent, farsighted, and courageous people who are now openly expressing frustration with terrorists and their facilitators. The DG ISPR praised this shift, noting that it demonstrates the public’s determination to reclaim peace and stability in their province.

The session also highlighted examples of Balochistan’s progress in education and leadership. General Chaudhry pointed out that renowned scientists like Samad Yar Jang, a Cambridge University scholar who once studied at Blida School, and young leaders such as Shahzaib Rind, showcase the potential of Baloch youth when empowered with education and opportunity. Today, Baloch women are serving as deputy commissioners in different districts, and countless young men and women from the province are excelling in diverse fields. These achievements, he noted, are proof that the educated youth of Balochistan are shaping their own future.

Linking this progress to Pakistan’s founding principles, the DG ISPR reminded students that Pakistan was created not on the basis of ethnicity, language, or regional divides, but on the foundation of La ilaha illallah. Quoting the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), he reiterated that no Arab is superior to a non-Arab, no non-Arab is superior to an Arab, and no white man is superior to a black man, nor vice versa, except in terms of piety. Pakistan’s unity, he stressed, lies in this spiritual and moral foundation rather than in divisions.

General Chaudhry also shed light on the diverse ethnic fabric of Balochistan. He clarified that the province is not solely composed of Baloch tribes, but also hosts a significant Pashtun population, comprising more than 30% of its demographic structure. Additionally, millions of Baloch live in Sindh and southern Punjab—more than those who reside within Balochistan itself. This diversity, he said, strengthens the national identity rather than fragmenting it. “Pakistan’s essence is rooted in the Kalima, and this truth has taken root within its people. It is what makes us one nation,” he declared.

Summarizing the Army’s stance, General Chaudhry reaffirmed: “The Pakistan Army has no interest in taking innocent lives in the name of counterterrorism. Our fight is against those who disrupt peace, exploit communities, and aim to destabilize the state. Together with the people, we can isolate terrorists and eliminate their influence.”

His message was clear: counterterrorism cannot succeed without unity, intelligence, and community partnership. Balochistan’s future lies in its youth, its educational progress, and its collective rejection of extremism. As the province continues to nurture leaders, scientists, and administrators, it becomes increasingly evident that its destiny is aligned with Pakistan’s strength and survival.