Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir visited Bannu on Thursday following the devastating terrorist attack on the Bannu Cantonment earlier this week. The attack, carried out on Tuesday, claimed 18 lives, including five soldiers, while security forces successfully neutralized all 16 attackers, including four suicide bombers.
During his visit, General Munir expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the civilians who lost their lives. He strongly condemned the brutal targeting of innocent people, particularly women, children, and the elderly, emphasizing that such acts expose the true nature of terrorists as enemies of Islam.
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Pakistan Army’s Commitment to Eradicating Terrorism
The army chief reassured the nation that those responsible for planning and facilitating the attack would be brought to justice, no matter where they are. He underscored the crucial role of national unity in the fight against terrorism and reiterated the Pakistan Army’s unwavering commitment to protecting the country’s citizens.
General Munir also visited the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Bannu, where he met with injured soldiers, praising their resilience and dedication to defending the nation. He reaffirmed that the military would not back down in its mission to eliminate terrorism, vowing to continue operations until all terrorist elements are eradicated.
Afghanistan’s Alleged Role in Harboring Terrorists
Highlighting intelligence reports, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that Afghan nationals were involved in the attack, with the terrorist group allegedly receiving instructions from handlers based in Afghanistan. The banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) was identified as the group behind the attack, operating from Afghan soil using foreign-made weapons.
Pakistan has once again urged the Afghan government to prevent its territory from being used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. Despite repeated calls from Islamabad, Kabul has denied any involvement in facilitating TTP militants.
Bannu Attack: A Brutal Assault on Pakistan’s Security
The attack on Bannu Cantonment involved explosive-laden vehicles targeting the perimeter, damaging nearby homes and a mosque. The resulting explosion led to casualties among both civilians and military personnel. In response, security forces engaged in a fierce firefight, eliminating all 16 attackers.
General Munir reaffirmed that no entity would be allowed to disrupt Pakistan’s peace and stability. The Pakistan Army remains steadfast in its mission to secure the nation, ensuring the safety of its people and eliminating terrorist threats.
The recent attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in Pakistan and the urgent need for regional cooperation to combat terrorism. As the country continues its fight against militancy, national unity and strong military action remain critical in restoring long-term peace and stability.
