By Aishma Gul
“Victory against terrorism demands not just action, but resilience, collaboration, and unwavering resolve.”
Pakistan’s ongoing fight against terrorism showcases the country’s firm dedication to protecting its sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its people. Between January and October 2024, the country experienced 1,566 terrorist attacks, resulting in the loss of 924 lives, according to a Ministry of Interior report shared in the National Assembly. While these figures present a serious security challenge, they also highlight the adaptability and sacrifices of Pakistan’s security forces in addressing the ever-changing threat of terrorism.
A Provincial Overview
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: The Most Affecte
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) experienced the highest number of incidents, with 636 attacks leading to 583 deaths and 1,375 injuries. Among those who lost their lives were 437 security personnel and 146 civilians. These numbers reveal KP’s vulnerability as a critical region in Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts.
Balochistan: Another Hotspot
Balochistan recorded 582 terrorist incidents, which caused 307 deaths, including 197 civilians and 110 security personnel. Despite the military’s strong presence, the province remains a focal point for insurgent activities, emphasizing the need for continuous and focused efforts.
Sindh and Punjab: Less Impacted
Sindh experienced 24 attacks, resulting in 17 deaths and 38 injuries, while Punjab saw just 10 incidents, with 16 fatalities and 63 injuries. This contrast reflects regional differences in the severity of terrorist activities.
The Evolving Threat of Terrorism in Pakistan
Key Terrorist Groups and Their Goals
According to a 2023 US State Department report, Pakistan is home to 41 active terrorist groups. These groups can be divided into four main categories:
1. Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP): Aims to overthrow the government, targeting security forces and public institutions.
2. Baloch Insurgents: Focus on seeking autonomy by attacking infrastructure, military convoys, and government installations.
3. Sectarian Groups: Target religious minorities to create divisions.
4. ISIS Affiliates: Operate occasionally, taking advantage of regional instability.
The TTP, in particular, continues to exploit porous borders with Afghanistan to carry out attacks, especially in KP and Balochistan. However, military operations, including intelligence-led raids, have significantly weakened the group.
Counterterrorism Operations and Intelligence Success
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi revealed that nearly 13,000 intelligence-led operations were carried out in 2024, leading to the arrest of 800 individuals linked to terrorism and anti-state activities. Punjab recorded the highest arrests at 400, followed by KP with 203, Balochistan with 173, Sindh with 21, and Gilgit-Baltistan with three.
Efforts to dismantle financial support for terrorist networks also made progress. Authorities arrested 2,466 individuals and secured the conviction of 526 under Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) laws. Additionally, PKR 580 million linked to terror networks was confiscated.
Cutting Off Financial Support
The 2023 US State Department report praised Pakistan for completing an updated National Risk Assessment (NRA) on terrorist financing. This study identified donations and extortion as primary funding sources and highlighted the role of illegal money transfer methods along the Afghan border.
By targeting these financial networks, Pakistan has disrupted the flow of funds to terrorist groups. Findings from the NRA have been shared with relevant stakeholders to guide focused actions. These steps align with UN resolutions and reinforce Pakistan’s commitment to combating terrorism.
Shifting Tactics of Terrorist Groups
Terrorism in Pakistan has changed in nature over the years. Groups now target softer areas, such as polio vaccination teams. Recently, in Karak, gunmen attacked a vaccination team, killing a police officer and injuring a health worker. Similarly, a polio campaign in Balochistan was temporarily suspended due to security concerns, highlighting the difficulty of protecting humanitarian efforts.
In response, Pakistan’s security forces have increased surveillance and worked closely with local communities. The devastating Army Public School (APS) attack on December 16, 2014, remains a pivotal moment. That day, over 140 lives were lost, including 132 children. The tragedy strengthened Pakistan’s resolve and led to large-scale military campaigns, such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad, which dismantled terrorist networks and reduced incidents in the years that followed.
While Pakistan’s struggle against terrorism is ongoing, progress is evident. The sacrifices made by both civilians and security forces have not been in vain, as consistent counterterrorism measures have dealt significant blows to terrorist networks. As Pakistan continues to adapt to the changing landscape of terrorism, its commitment to safeguarding its future remains unshaken.
To sustain this momentum, the government must focus on enhancing border security, particularly along the Afghan border, and address the root causes of extremism through initiatives in education and economic development.