Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khurram Dastgir urged the government on Tuesday to launch a large-scale operation similar to Zarb-e-Azb to eliminate terrorism from the country.
Speaking on Samaa TV’s program, Dastgir emphasized the need for national unity in tackling terrorism.
“The federal government must confront this challenge by setting aside differences and securing the support of parliament and all provinces,” he stated.
He also stressed the role of provincial governments in combating the threat. “The governments of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa must step up their efforts,” he added.
Dastgir reiterated that political and regional differences should be put aside to eradicate terrorism, calling for a collective approach to restore peace and stability.
Meanwhile, Security forces launched a clearance operation in Balochistan’s Bolan district after an unknown number of terrorists hijacked the Jaffar Express, taking passengers hostage. According to security sources, at least 16 attackers were eliminated, and 104 civilians were successfully rescued.
The train, carrying over 400 passengers in nine bogies, was traveling from Quetta to Peshawar when it came under attack. Officials reported that 57 recovered passengers were transported to Quetta early Wednesday, while 23 remained in Machh. Among the rescued individuals were 58 men, 31 women, and 15 children.
The operation is ongoing, with security forces working to free the remaining hostages. Following the military’s intervention, the militants split into smaller groups. Seventeen injured passengers have been transported to a nearby hospital for immediate medical attention.
Sources revealed that the attackers are using satellite phones to communicate with their international handlers, with intelligence indicating links to masterminds in Afghanistan. The militants have also used women and children as human shields, complicating rescue efforts.
