Pakistan has launched Operation Azm-i-Istehkam (Resolve for Stability), a nationwide initiative unveiled on June 22 to combat terrorism and religious extremism within the country.
Traditionally focused on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Balochistan, such operations have now been broadened in response to Chinese pressures, coinciding with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent visit to China. China’s concerns about security for its nationals and investments, especially with the upcoming phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), are key factors driving this new campaign.
Liu Jianchao, Minister of the Central Committee of the International Department of the Communist Party of China, highlighted security challenges as the primary obstacle to CPEC cooperation during his visit to Islamabad. He emphasized the critical nature of Pakistan’s debt to China, which stands at over 72% of its external bilateral debt, underscoring the significance of the relationship despite recent security incidents.
The decision to launch Operation Azm-i-Istehkam follows the breakdown of peace talks with Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in 2022, contributing to an uptick in nationwide terror activities. General Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s army chief, announced the operation, continuing a military strategy dating back to 2001.
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This announcement coincided with Shehbaz Sharif’s coalition government assuming power, contrasting with the previous administration’s approach led by Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI). Concerns have been voiced by regional political figures, including KP’s Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, about potential impacts on local communities.
Analysts fear Operation Azm-i-Istehkam could adversely affect Pashtun communities in KP, similar to past operations in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), prompting protests by groups like the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM). The Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) has also criticized the operation, alleging external influence and potential threats to Baloch sovereignty.
Criticism within Pakistan questions the military’s intentions and the operation’s scope, with concerns raised about targeting political opponents. The military leadership clarified the operation’s nature, stressing it is not intended as a large-scale offensive.
The economic and security challenges posed by Operation Azm-i-Istehkam are significant, particularly given ongoing political opposition and human rights concerns. The effectiveness of the operation in addressing terrorism and ensuring stability remains uncertain, amidst uncertainties in Pakistan’s economic and security landscape.
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