RAWALPINDI: Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt General Ahmad Sharif announced on Friday that Pakistan’s security forces killed 925 terrorists in 2024, marking the highest number ever recorded in a single year. This success was achieved through 59,775 intelligence-based operations.
Speaking at a press conference in Rawalpindi, the DG highlighted that 27 Afghan terrorists were also neutralized during the year. He further revealed that 383 armed forces officers and personnel made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“The war against terrorism will continue until its complete elimination,” said General Sharif, reaffirming the commitment to security and peace. He also mentioned that 72% of the formally designated tribal areas have now been cleared of mines and explosives.
The DG added that over 815,000 illegal Afghan refugees have voluntarily returned to Afghanistan in the past year.
An ISPR official shared that the Pakistan Army, in collaboration with law enforcement, intelligence agencies, and the police, is conducting more than 179 operations daily. These efforts have led to the successful elimination of 73 high-profile, most-wanted terrorists, including the leader of Fitna al Khawarij in Malakand Division.
General Sharif also spoke about the completion of significant infrastructure and education projects, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where 6,500 programs have been launched to improve education. He also highlighted ongoing development in Balochistan, such as progress on the Kachhi Canal project aimed at enhancing local agriculture and water supply.
Regarding regional issues, the ISPR DG emphasized Pakistan’s consistent efforts to foster peace in Afghanistan but pointed out that terrorist activities emanating from Afghan soil continue to threaten Pakistan’s security. “The roots of terrorism are often linked to Afghanistan, and we are resolute in dismantling terrorist networks,” he stressed.
Countering Smuggling and Border Security
General Sharif highlighted the significant progress made in countering smuggling, which has been key to strengthening Pakistan’s border security and economic stability.
Tensions with India
On the issue of India, the DG ISPR noted that Indian forces had violated the ceasefire 25 times along the eastern border in 2024. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to defend its national integrity and expressed concerns over India’s oppressive actions in Kashmir.
“India has turned occupied Kashmir into a hotbed of violence, with blatant violations of international laws,” General Sharif said, adding that Pakistan would continue to provide legal, diplomatic, and moral support to the people of occupied Kashmir. He condemned India’s systemic persecution of minorities and its international involvement in killing Sikhs, asserting that Pakistan’s leadership is fully aware of India’s strategies to divert attention from its own internal issues.
Commitment to Defend and Support Kashmiris
“The Pakistan Army has the capability to deliver a decisive response to any Indian hostility,” the DG ISPR declared. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to defend its borders and the rights of oppressed communities, particularly the Kashmiris. “Our stance remains firm: we will continue to extend legal, diplomatic, and moral support to the people of occupied Kashmir,” he emphasized.
Military Training and Preparedness
General Sharif also addressed the strong training framework within Pakistan’s armed forces, noting that training begins the day a soldier joins the army. He highlighted the continuous training programs designed to maintain high standards of readiness and professionalism.
