NSC huddle calls for unified action against terrorism

The Parliamentary Committee on National Security (PCNS) resolved on Tuesday to combat terrorism with an "iron hand," emphasizing a unified political commitment and strategic action to counter militant threats.

The in-camera session, convened by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq on the advice of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, was held amid a surge in terrorist activities, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

The meeting was attended by PM Shehbaz, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir, Director General Inter-Services Intelligence (DG ISI) Lt Gen Asim Malik, the chief ministers of all four provinces, and other senior officials.

However, key figures such as Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, NA Opposition Leader Omar Ayub, and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) representatives were absent.

Security Briefing and Policy Resolutions

Military leadership briefed lawmakers on the overall security landscape, expressing concern over the rising terror incidents. The participants strongly condemned recent attacks, particularly in KP and Balochistan, and expressed solidarity with the victims' families.

The committee stressed the need for immediate implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP) and Operation Azm-e-Istehkam to dismantle terrorist networks and disrupt their logistical support

A particular focus was placed on countering the digital presence of terrorist groups, with calls for stricter monitoring of their use of social media for recruitment and propaganda.

Reaffirming support for the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, the meeting acknowledged their sacrifices and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to eliminate terrorism in all its forms.

Response to Recent Attacks

The security meeting followed a recent deadly attack by Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) militants in Bolan, where terrorists derailed a train and held over 440 passengers hostage in a standoff.

Security forces rescued the hostages and killed 33 attackers, while 26 passengers and four security personnel lost their lives.

The meeting also took into account findings from the Global Terrorism Index 2025, which ranked Pakistan as the second-most affected country by terrorism.

The participants regretted the absence of certain opposition members from the discussion and vowed to continue efforts for broader political consultation on security matters.