Pakistan’s top leadership has given the green light to a new military operation, Azm-e-Istehkam (Resolve for Stability), aimed at countering a surge in violence. Announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif following a review of the country’s counterterrorism operations, this initiative is poised to address domestic security threats and mitigate armed fighters crossing from Afghanistan. We trying to understand that the objectives, strategies, and potential impacts of this new counterterrorism drive.
Background and Context
The announcement of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam follows a thorough evaluation of Pakistan’s counterterrorism strategies, including the National Action Plan adopted after the tragic December 2014 attack on Peshawar’s Army Public School, which claimed over 140 lives. This plan aims to intensify efforts to curtail terrorist activities through regional cooperation and socioeconomic measures to address root causes and discourage extremist tendencies.
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Objectives and Strategic Focus
The operation is designed to address multiple dimensions of the security threats facing Pakistan:
- Domestic Security: Targeting internal threats and maintaining stability within Pakistan’s borders.
- Cross-Border Threats: Mitigating the influx of armed fighters from Afghanistan, especially given the strained relations between Islamabad and the Taliban rulers in Kabul.
- Socioeconomic Measures: Implementing programs to address genuine public concerns and reduce the appeal of extremist ideologies.
Recent Surge in Violence
Pakistan has witnessed a significant increase in violent incidents over the last 18 months, with the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) being a major perpetrator. The TTP unilaterally ended a ceasefire in November 2022, and the violence has predominantly affected the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the southwestern province of Balochistan. In 2023 alone, nearly 1,000 casualties were reported from around 700 violent incidents.
Regional Cooperation and Cross-Border Operations
The new counterterrorism drive will likely extend beyond Pakistan’s borders, as analysts predict cross-border strikes into Afghanistan to target suspected TTP hideouts. This follows previous cross-border operations in March, which were publicly confirmed by Pakistan’s foreign office. However, such actions risk escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
International Implications
Relations with China
China, a key ally of Pakistan, has a significant stake in the country’s stability due to the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project. Recent attacks on Chinese nationals and installations in Pakistan have heightened concerns, prompting high-level discussions between Pakistani and Chinese officials. Ensuring the safety of Chinese investments and personnel remains a critical component of Pakistan’s counterterrorism strategy.
Domestic Politics and Economic Stability
The timing of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam is also influenced by domestic political and economic factors. With Pakistan’s economic situation stabilizing and a government firmly in place, the leadership feels confident to embark on a vigorous campaign to address security challenges. This stability is essential to sustain long-term counterterrorism efforts and gain public support.
Challenges and Potential Outcomes
Despite the comprehensive strategy, several challenges remain. The transient nature of TTP bases, lack of public support in affected provinces, and potential escalation of tensions with Afghanistan could hinder the operation’s success. Additionally, while China supports Pakistan’s crackdown on violence, Beijing’s strategic relationship with the Taliban could complicate joint efforts.
Pakistan’s renewed commitment
Operation Azm-e-Istehkam represents Pakistan’s renewed commitment to countering terrorism and ensuring domestic stability. By addressing both internal and cross-border threats, the operation aims to create a safer environment conducive to economic growth and international cooperation. However, its success will depend on effective implementation, regional cooperation, and addressing the underlying socioeconomic issues that fuel extremism.
The global community, particularly key allies like China, will be closely monitoring the operation’s progress and its broader implications for regional stability and international relations.
