LAHORE: Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir on Thursday emphasised the army’s zero-tolerance policy towards any threats to national security, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.

According to the military’s media wing, Field Marshal Munir made the remarks while addressing officers during a visit to Lahore Garrison.

He reaffirmed the military’s resolve to respond to evolving challenges with professionalism and determination, it added.

“He said the armed forces remained committed to safeguarding Pakis­tan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and internal stability, while promoting discipline, excellence and selfless national service,” the statement said.

During the visit, where he was received by the Lahore corps commander, CDF Field Marshal Munir was given a comprehensive briefing on the formation’s operational preparedness, training standards and key initiatives to enhance combat efficiency, it said.

The statement added that he witnessed a “specialised field training exercise showcasing the latest technologies, underscoring the army’s emphasis on innovation, adaptability to match the dynamic future battlefield”.

He also inspected sports and recreational facilities being provided to troops, highlighting their importance in maintaining physical fitness, morale, and overall well-being, it said.

CDF Field Marshal Munir also visited a care centre at Combined Mil­itary Hospital (CMH), Lahore, lauding the efforts of the medical staff and administration in establishing a fully equipped, state-of-the-art healthcare facility, it added.

The CDF’s remarks come after the military’s spokesperson stated that Afghan­istan had become a hub of terrorists and non-state actors, declaring the ruling Taliban “the mother organisation” which had been harbouring such groups since 2021.

In a wide-ranging and marathon press confere­nce, he also spoke at length about souring relations with Afghanistan, the belligerence being witnessed from India, as well as levelling criticism against the government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Imran Khan, without explicitly naming the latter.

Last month, the army’s top leadership had also warned political forces against undermining nati­onal unity besides vowing to deal sternly with what it described as India-sponsored proxies inv­olved in terrorism.

Published in Dawn, January 9th, 2026