Security sources said deliberate ambiguity is being created during discussions about the tribes and foreign militants in Bajaur. However, the ground realities are clear, they added.
According to the sources militants, described as Kharijites, are residing among the civilian population in Bajaur and are involved in terrorist and criminal activities.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government, including the Chief Minister and security officials, has presented three key points to the tribal elders of the area:
First, the foreign militants, the majority of whom are Afghan nationals, must be expelled.
Second, suppose the tribes are unable to expel these militants. In that case, they should temporarily vacate the area for one or two days so security forces can take decisive action against the militants.
Third, if neither of the above options is possible, then efforts must be made to minimize collateral damage, as operations against the terrorists will continue at all costs.
Security sources further emphasized that there can be no negotiations with the Kharijites or their facilitators unless they completely surrender to the state.
The ongoing tribal jirga has been described as a logical step to ensure the safety of the civilian population before the operation begins. However, there can be no compromise with those who are enemies of both Islam and the state, as neither religion, the constitution, nor the values of the brave people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa allow such compromise, the sources said.
They also reiterated that the authority to conduct any armed operation rests solely with the state.
