Calling the state’s recent defensive actions against terrorist safe havens in Afghanistan a “mistake” is tantamount to ignoring the facts. Despite years of patience, negotiations, and restraint, terrorism persisted, leaving the state with no choice but decisive operations to protect its citizens. Prominent journalist Aizaz Syed questioned these defensive measures on X (formerly Twitter), labeling them a “mistake,” which sparked a heated public debate on social media.
Paid Commentary
Syed’s claim that operations against terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan are a “mistake” reflects a disconnect from ground realities. Analysts point out that the difference between a seasoned journalist and someone working on a particular agenda is now clear. Interestingly, as pressure on militant networks increased, major cross-border attacks and open threats suddenly declined. This silence provides clear evidence of where terrorism was rooted and why dismantling it became unavoidable.
Protection of Sovereignty
State defense is not about waging war but about clearing the homeland of hostile non-state actors. Responding to attacks is not a sign of weakness but a basic requirement to protect sovereignty and the lives of citizens. Those criticizing these measures may not fully grasp the grief experienced by families who lose loved ones to terrorism daily. Doing nothing, in fact, is the biggest mistake, as inaction allows terrorists to deepen their roots.
Hidden Threats
Pakistan had relied for years on assurances from the Afghan Taliban that its territory would not be used against Pakistan. Unfortunately, terrorism was still supported from Afghan soil. Now that the state has initiated a defensive campaign, suddenly “guardians of peace” have awakened. In reality, presenting terrorist narratives as “calls for peace” is just a method to gain cheap social media fame.
Danger of Treating Terrorism as Opinion
It is concerning that some still treat terrorism as a matter of opinion, as if it were a discussion on a TV talk show. When Pakistan relied on the Taliban for years and they violated assurances by supporting terrorist activities, these “peace advocates” remained silent. Now, as countermeasures are undertaken, they express discomfort. Framing terrorist narratives as appeals for peace is merely a way to gain cheap recognition, while in reality, such actions bolster the enemy and undermine defensive measures.
