IN order to stem the tide of terrorism, it is necessary to ensure that no spaces are left for violent elements to operate in the country.
Terrorists often try to blend in with the civilian population. Intelligence-based operations are meant to counter this practice. The military has recently said that two mosques being misused by TTP terrorists in North Waziristan have been cleared. As per ISPR, the terrorists had desecrated the places of worship to store explosives, while also operating torture cells inside the mosques.
In the twisted worldview of the TTP and those of their ilk, misusing mosques — as well as attacking the faithful inside places of worship — is acceptable, hence these developments do not come as a surprise. What is important is for operations against violent anti-state elements to continue so that these groups are rooted out for good.
It does seem that the state’s efforts are bearing fruit. According to figures released recently by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, terrorist attacks in October fell by 37pc as compared to September. Improvements were particularly seen in Balochistan and KP — the provinces hardest hit by various strands of terrorism. Yet in KP’s merged districts, where the problem of terrorism is most acute, the gains were modest: October saw 30 attacks compared to 34 in September.
Action against terrorist groups must continue until all areas are declared clear of militancy. While the Taliban are reluctant to cooperate against terrorists who launch attacks on Pakistan from Afghan soil, the state here must do all possible to ensure violent elements have no safe spaces within our borders.
The gains made over the last month should be capitalised on, with the affected areas permanently cleared of terrorists. These counterterrorism operations must come with minimal displacement of the local people. For over two decades, tribal communities and those living in disturbed areas have faced repeated terrorist violence and displacement due to CT operations.
This time the state should ensure that after the terrorism-hit areas are cleared, the government builds on the gains so that local people can live in peace. More IBOs and securing the border against terrorist infiltrators can help bring long-term peace.
Published in Dawn, November 11th, 2026
