Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday vowed to launch decisive action against rising terrorism, declaring that Pakistan would no longer “wait any longer” as enemies masquerading as allies continue to facilitate terrorists.
He said the sacrifices of the country’s martyrs would not be allowed to go in vain.
Speaking at a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, the premier said that the country is once again facing increasing terrorist incidents, which demand firm and immediate action.
Referring to recent attacks, he said he attended the funerals of Lieutenant Colonel Junaid, Major Tayyab, and nine soldiers martyred in Orakzai, as well as Major Sibtain Haider, who embraced martyrdom while fighting extremists.
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Shehbaz Sharif said Lieutenant Colonel Junaid led from the front and killed 19 terrorists before sacrificing his life. “Each family I met told me with pride that their sons laid down their lives for Pakistan,” he said.
“Enemies pretending to be friends are backing terrorists”
The Prime Minister lamented that terrorists were being sheltered by groups in neighboring countries. “These Khawarij cross our borders and attack innocent Pakistanis, while our so-called friends protect and glorify them,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s patience has run out.
He said the blood of martyrs has drawn a red line that no one will be allowed to cross. “If terrorism continues, the hard work of our governments, institutions, and people will be wasted,” he said, asserting that now is the time for decisive action.
'Enough is enough'
The prime minister said the entire nation—from Karachi to Peshawar—is asking what is happening as terrorism resurges despite progress on diplomatic and economic fronts.
“We cannot allow the cycle of bloodshed to continue. Enough is enough. We must end this menace once and for all,” he declared.
He praised the nation’s unity and the leadership of the armed forces, saying the commitment of the Commander-in-Chief and the army’s determination remain strong. “The martyrs are our honor and pride. Forgetting their sacrifices would be the worst betrayal,” he warned.
Pakistan’s firm stance on Palestine
Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan has never wavered in its support for Palestine. “At the United Nations, all 240 million Pakistanis stood united in calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the right of self-determination for Palestinians,” he said.
The Prime Minister said U.S. President Donald Trump had called a meeting attended by eight Muslim countries, including Pakistan, reflecting the global recognition of Pakistan’s efforts for peace. “We thanked Trump for his role in pushing for a ceasefire and warned Israel that occupation would never bring peace,” he added.
He said negotiations were underway for a permanent ceasefire, with Pakistan playing an active role in peace efforts.
Diplomatic engagements
Shehbaz Sharif said he met Trump in Washington alongside Field Marshal Asim Munir, where they discussed mutual relations, trade, and counterterrorism cooperation.
He also praised China as a “timeless friend” and thanked President Xi Jinping for his continued support. He noted that Pakistan’s defense pact with Saudi Arabia marked a new phase of cooperation, emphasizing brotherly relations between the two nations.
On Kashmir, the Prime Minister thanked political leaders including Rana Sanaullah, Fazal-ur-Rehman, Amir Muqam, Sardar Yousuf, and Ahsan Iqbal for their role in Azad Kashmir. “Kashmiris are the crown of our heads, and their development remains our responsibility,” he said.
Recalling his visit to Malaysia, Shehbaz said Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim showed exceptional warmth towards Pakistan, with both sides signing a $200 million halal meat deal.
He cited a Bloomberg report that declared Pakistan the world’s second emerging economy, saying the government’s consistent efforts are yielding results.
