ISLAMABAD: After the political leadership, the military’s top brass has also pledged ‘unequivocal’ support for the Palestinian people and expressed concerns over Israeli atrocities in Gaza.

The 260th Corps Commanders meeting on Tuesday also supported the government’s decision to expel all illegal foreign nationals by November 1, according to a statement issued by the military’s media wing.

The meeting, presided over by Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, expressed concerns over the “enormous humanitarian cost” being imposed on the innocent civilians of Palestine due to Israel’s disproportionate use of force.

While addressing the meeting, Gen Munir vowed all-out diplomatic, moral and political support of the Pakistani nation for the Palestinian people, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

He said that Pakistan would continue to support the principled stance of the Palestinian people for durable peace and struggle against the illegal occupation of their land and holy places.

The participants were also briefed on the prevalent geo-strategic environment, challenges to national security and the army’s strategy in response to the evolving threat.

The ISPR statement said that “the COAS stressed maintaining high standards of professionalism and motivation during operations and achieving excellence during training of the formations.”

Expulsion of illegal foreigners

The corps commanders also reviewed progress against illegal financial activities and decided to support the government’s initiatives for economic restoration.

The COAS stressed the need for accelerating operations against hoarding, smugglers and cartels to rescue and eradicate illegal activities.

He said the army will extend complete support to law enforcement agencies to curb illicit businesses and financial activities.

While supporting the decision to expel illegal foreign nationals, Gen Munir directed the officers to support and facilitate the smooth, respectable and safe repatriation of all illegal foreigners.

“The forum reiterated the Pakistan Army’s resolve to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan against all kinds of direct and indirect threats,” the ISPR added.

The forum paid tribute to the sacrifices of security and law enforcement personnel and expressed the resolve to take stern action against terrorists who were trying to destabilise Pakistan “at the behest of enemy forces”.

The commanders vowed to act against terrorists’ facilitators and instigators as well.

The corps commanders also “resolved to defend Pakistan’s territory and sovereignty against every direct and indirect threat”.Later, prayers were also offered for those who were martyred in terrorist attacks in Mastung, Hangu and Zhob.

Published in Dawn, October 18th, 2023