Azm-e-Istehkam: Pakistan’s New Military Operation
Pakistan has launched a new military operation, Azm-e-Istehkam, to combat militancy and address a surge in armed violence. The operation, named “Resolve for Stability” in Urdu, is part of ongoing efforts by the government to target militant groups in the country.
Over the past two years, Pakistan has seen a rise in violent attacks, with at least 62 soldiers killed so far this year. The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), an Islamist militant group seeking to overthrow the government and establish an Islamic state, has claimed responsibility for many of these attacks.
The new operation aims to focus on preventing militants from crossing over from Afghanistan, where tensions have been high between Pakistan and the Taliban rulers in Kabul. The military has conducted airstrikes inside Afghanistan, leading to further strains between the two countries.
While there is opposition to the military campaign, especially from former Prime Minister Imran Khan, analysts believe that it is necessary to enhance security and stability in Pakistan, particularly in light of recent attacks on Chinese nationals working on projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Chinese pressure to address security issues has also played a role in the decision to launch the operation.