<p>Pakistan's counterterrorism police on Monday (Jan 2) claimed it had arrested nearly two dozen members (21) of the proscribed militant outfit,&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP or Pakistan Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The arrests were made in the eastern Punjab province over the last two weeks, based on intelligence information, according to news agency <em>The Associated Press</em>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police released a list of suspects with the cases against them and their alleged affiliation. However, the list&nbsp;did not give details about the attacks the militants were allegedly involved in, including the number of casualties.</p>

<p>Apart from the TTP militants, the&nbsp;Counterterrorism Department apprehended&nbsp;Mohammad Arshad, an alleged chief commander of the banned Baluch Nationalist Army which seeks independence of&nbsp;Baluchistan from Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-pakistan-become-a-suicide-state-546188" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'?</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>What is TTP?</strong></h2>

<p>TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban. While the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021 after the hasty pullout by the US, TTP is attempting to replicate a similar event in Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, the militant outfit announced it was calling off a ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of terror attacks have killed a number of civilians as well as military personnel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In December 2023, at least 23 Pakistani soldiers were killed while dozens were injured after a&nbsp;vehicle containing explosives rammed into a building in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the Afghan border. According to intelligence reports, TTP was behind the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Baluchistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai previously suggested that&nbsp;Pakistan should offer "drone bases to target militant sanctuaries in Afghanistan", referring to TTP.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/troubled-by-home-grown-monster-ttp-pakistan-govt-mulls-military-offensive-reports-546449"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Troubled by home-grown monster TTP, Pakistan govt mulls military offensive: Reports</strong></a></p>

<p>Achakzai said “special targeted operations, air strikes, border closure with Afghanistan, return of Afghan refugees, anti-TTP&nbsp;political opposition gathering in Islamabad” must be considered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Last, offer US drone bases to target [Al Qaeda] and other militants sanctuaries in Afghanistan,” he wrote in the now-deleted post on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's counterterrorism police on Monday (Jan 2) claimed it had arrested nearly two dozen members (21) of the proscribed militant outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP or Pakistan Taliban.

Pakistan's counterterrorism police on Monday (Jan 2) claimed it had arrested nearly two dozen members (21) of the proscribed militant outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, or TTP or Pakistan Taliban. The arrests were made in the eastern Punjab province over the last two weeks, based on intelligence information, according to news agency The Associated Press. The police released a list of suspects with the cases against them and their alleged affiliation. However, the list did not give details about the attacks the militants were allegedly involved in, including the number of casualties. Apart from the TTP militants, the Counterterrorism Department apprehended Mohammad Arshad, an alleged chief commander of the banned Baluch Nationalist Army which seeks independence of Baluchistan from Pakistan. WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'? What is TTP? TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban. While the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021 after the hasty pullout by the US, TTP is attempting to replicate a similar event in Pakistan. Last year, the militant outfit announced it was calling off a ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of terror attacks have killed a number of civilians as well as military personnel. In December 2023, at least 23 Pakistani soldiers were killed while dozens were injured after a vehicle containing explosives rammed into a building in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the Afghan border. According to intelligence reports, TTP was behind the attack. Baluchistan caretaker Information Minister Jan Achakzai previously suggested that Pakistan should offer "drone bases to target militant sanctuaries in Afghanistan", referring to TTP. Also read | Troubled by home-grown monster TTP, Pakistan govt mulls military offensive: Reports Achakzai said “special targeted operations, air strikes, border closure with Afghanistan, return of Afghan refugees, anti-TTP political opposition gathering in Islamabad” must be considered. “Last, offer US drone bases to target [Al Qaeda] and other militants sanctuaries in Afghanistan,” he wrote in the now-deleted post on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: 21 Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan militants connected to various attacks arrested

<p>Three police officers were killed in a militant attack near the northwestern Afghan border on Friday (Dec 15). The incident, which resulted in the killing of three militants as well, marked an escalation in violence in the recent past. At the same time, it also heightened security concerns in the lead-up to national elections scheduled for early next year.</p>

<p>This attack followed closely on the heels of another assault in the region just days prior, wherein 23 Pakistani soldiers were killed in the Dera Ismail Khan district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, situated near the&nbsp;tribal areas bordering Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flu-cases-skyrocket-in-japan-hit-warning-levels-with-fastest-rise-in-a-decade-670215">Flu cases skyrocket in Japan, hit warning levels&nbsp;with fastest rise in a decade</a></p>

<p>The Friday (Dec 15) attack unfolded in the adjacent Tank district, where a militant detonated himself at the main entrance of a police office and residence block, paving the way for others to storm in, as per&nbsp;police official Iftikhar Shah.</p>

<p>A prolonged gun battle ensued as the security forces engaged the attackers, resulting in the injury of two additional police officers. Provincial police chief Akhtar Hayat confirmed the death of three attackers and disclosed ongoing efforts to locate the remaining assailants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/officials-in-iceland-warn-of-volcanic-eruption-on-reykjanes-peninsula-report-670207">Officials in Iceland warn of volcanic eruption on Reykjanes Peninsula: Report</a></p>

<p>A militant group, Ansar-ul-Islam, claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement sent to a Reuters reporter. However, the police have not yet verified the claim.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-to-operate-drone-bases-in-pakistan-669677">US to operate drone bases in Pakistan?</a></strong></p>

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<p>It was not immediately clear if this group is linked to the main Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) group of Islamist and sectarian militants.</p>

<p>In response to the rising threat, the Pakistani military has conducted multiple operations against militants, particularly in the Waziristan region adjacent to the district where the recent attacks occurred. Waziristan had previously served as a stronghold for both local and foreign Islamist militants.</p>

<p>UN Security Council members condemned the "heinous and cowardly terrorist attack on Pakistan’s security forces’ post" on December 12, claimed by Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan, a terrorist group affiliated with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Three police officers were killed in a militant attack near the northwestern Afghan border on Friday (Dec 15). The incident, which resulted in the killing of three militants as well, marked an escalation in violence in the recent past.

Three police officers were killed in a militant attack near the northwestern Afghan border on Friday (Dec 15). The incident, which resulted in the killing of three militants as well, marked an escalation in violence in the recent past. At the same time, it also heightened security concerns in the lead-up to national elections scheduled for early next year. This attack followed closely on the heels of another assault in the region just days prior, wherein 23 Pakistani soldiers were killed in the Dera Ismail Khan district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, situated near the tribal areas bordering Afghanistan. Also Read | Flu cases skyrocket in Japan, hit warning levels with fastest rise in a decade The Friday (Dec 15) attack unfolded in the adjacent Tank district, where a militant detonated himself at the main entrance of a police office and residence block, paving the way for others to storm in, as per police official Iftikhar Shah. A prolonged gun battle ensued as the security forces engaged the attackers, resulting in the injury of two additional police officers. Provincial police chief Akhtar Hayat confirmed the death of three attackers and disclosed ongoing efforts to locate the remaining assailants. Also Read | Officials in Iceland warn of volcanic eruption on Reykjanes Peninsula: Report A militant group, Ansar-ul-Islam, claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement sent to a Reuters reporter. However, the police have not yet verified the claim. Watch | US to operate drone bases in Pakistan? × It was not immediately clear if this group is linked to the main Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) group of Islamist and sectarian militants. In response to the rising threat, the Pakistani military has conducted multiple operations against militants, particularly in the Waziristan region adjacent to the district where the recent attacks occurred. Waziristan had previously served as a stronghold for both local and foreign Islamist militants. UN Security Council members condemned the "heinous and cowardly terrorist attack on Pakistan’s security forces’ post" on December 12, claimed by Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan, a terrorist group affiliated with the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). (With inputs from agencies)

Three Pak police officers slain, Ansar-ul-Islam militant group claims responsibility

<p>The Pakistan army on Friday (July 14) expressed concerns over militants finding safe havens in Afghanistan. In reference to the&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the army said it has serious concerns about the safe havens and liberty of action available to TTP in Afghanistan, the news agency Reuters reported. The army's remark comes as it threatened to take an effective response two days after 12 of its soldiers were killed in two separate attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Such attacks are intolerable and would elicit effective response from the security forces of Pakistan," the army said, adding, the involvement of Afghan nationals in acts of terrorism in Pakistan was an important concern that had to be addressed.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>12 soldiers lost in militant attacks</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday, the army said that it lost 12 soldiers in militant attacks, including an assault on one of its bases in Balochistan. In the first incident, nine soldiers were killed at the base which was stormed by militants. The army said that&nbsp;all five militants who stormed the base in the early hours were killed in retaliatory fire.&nbsp; Speaking to Reuters, security officials said&nbsp;the militants first hurled grenades into a military mess at the base and then waged a gunbattle lasting several hours.</p>

<p>In a statement, the army said initial attempts by the terrorists to sneak into the facility were checked by soldiers on duty, and in the&nbsp;ensuing heavy exchange of fire, the terrorists were contained into a small area at the boundary of the base</p>

<p>In the second incident, the army said three more soldiers died in an exchange with heavily armed terrorists in the district's Sui province. Two terrorists also died in this exchange.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP), a newly founded terrorist group&nbsp;claimed responsibility for the assault, saying in a statement it would release pictures and videos of its fighters who took part.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Pakistan army on Friday (July 14) expressed concerns over militants finding safe havens in Afghanistan. In reference to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the army said it has serious concerns about the safe havens and liberty of action available to TTP in Afghanistan, the news agency Reuters reported.

The Pakistan army on Friday (July 14) expressed concerns over militants finding safe havens in Afghanistan. In reference to the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the army said it has serious concerns about the safe havens and liberty of action available to TTP in Afghanistan, the news agency Reuters reported. The army's remark comes as it threatened to take an effective response two days after 12 of its soldiers were killed in two separate attacks. "Such attacks are intolerable and would elicit effective response from the security forces of Pakistan," the army said, adding, the involvement of Afghan nationals in acts of terrorism in Pakistan was an important concern that had to be addressed. 12 soldiers lost in militant attacks On Wednesday, the army said that it lost 12 soldiers in militant attacks, including an assault on one of its bases in Balochistan. In the first incident, nine soldiers were killed at the base which was stormed by militants. The army said that all five militants who stormed the base in the early hours were killed in retaliatory fire. Speaking to Reuters, security officials said the militants first hurled grenades into a military mess at the base and then waged a gunbattle lasting several hours. In a statement, the army said initial attempts by the terrorists to sneak into the facility were checked by soldiers on duty, and in the ensuing heavy exchange of fire, the terrorists were contained into a small area at the boundary of the base In the second incident, the army said three more soldiers died in an exchange with heavily armed terrorists in the district's Sui province. Two terrorists also died in this exchange. Tehreek-e-Jihad Pakistan (TJP), a newly founded terrorist group claimed responsibility for the assault, saying in a statement it would release pictures and videos of its fighters who took part. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pak Army concerned over militants finding safe havens in Afghanistan

<p>Overnight, dozens of militants launched a siege on a Hungarian-owned oil and gas exploration site in Pakistan. The attack resulted in the death&nbsp;of six security personnel, according to police and the energy firm involved. The attack took place in the Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the Afghan border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Around 50 fighters, armed with light and heavy weapons, fired mortar shells at the main entrance of the site owned by Budapest-headquartered MOL Group.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Statement by the company that owns the oil exploration site</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, the MOL Group confirmed the death toll but stated that none of its employees were killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two wells located near the attack site have "been temporarily shut down by remote access and the wells are now secured", it said. The Group as per AFP, has operated a Pakistan subsidiary since 1999 and employs around 400 people there.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pak-pm-imran-khan-wife-bushra-bibi-granted-bail-in-different-cases-595444">Former Pak PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi granted bail in different cases</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>The attack</strong></h2>

<p>As per police, four members of the Frontier Constabulary, a paramilitary police assistance force, and two Pakistani security guards are among the dead.</p>

<p>Talking to AFP, district police chief Asif Bahadur said, "They were armed with light and heavy weapons and fired mortar shells, killing six security personnel at the main entrance."</p>

<p>The Pakistan&nbsp;police engaged in an exchange of fire with the militants, forcing them to flee.&nbsp;"The exchange of fire continued for more than an hour. Police forced the militants to flee," said Bahadur.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-govt-calls-imran-khan-liar-over-his-alleged-removal-of-gen-munir-as-isi-chief-594998">Pakistan govt calls Imran Khan 'liar' over his role in alleged removal of Gen Munir as ISI chief</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Who is behind the attack?</strong></h2>

<p>While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the local chapter of the Taliban — which happens to be the most active militant group in the region, is believed to be responsible.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attackers, as per district police chief Asif Bahadur, are believed to have originated from the nearby North Waziristan district, which has a history of militancy and borders Afghanistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The attack comes amidst a rise in militancy in Pakistan following the Taliban's return to power in the neighbouring country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Militant attacks in Pakistan have primarily targeted security forces and foreign interests accused of exploitation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Hungarian embassy in Islamabad stated that it is assessing the situation but has no immediate plans for diplomatic action.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)?</strong></h2>

<p>The Pakistan Taliban, known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), was formed in 2007 by militants who separated from the Afghan Taliban to focus on Islamabad for its support of the US invasion.</p>

<p>In a separate incident, militants attacked two girls' schools in the province, destroying nine classrooms without causing any casualties. The attack has not been claimed by any group.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Overnight, dozens of militants launched a siege on a Hungarian-owned oil and gas exploration site in Pakistan. The attack resulted in the death of six security personnel, according to police and the energy firm involved.

Overnight, dozens of militants launched a siege on a Hungarian-owned oil and gas exploration site in Pakistan. The attack resulted in the death of six security personnel, according to police and the energy firm involved. The attack took place in the Hangu district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, near the Afghan border. Around 50 fighters, armed with light and heavy weapons, fired mortar shells at the main entrance of the site owned by Budapest-headquartered MOL Group. Statement by the company that owns the oil exploration site In a statement, the MOL Group confirmed the death toll but stated that none of its employees were killed. Two wells located near the attack site have "been temporarily shut down by remote access and the wells are now secured", it said. The Group as per AFP, has operated a Pakistan subsidiary since 1999 and employs around 400 people there. Also read | Former Pak PM Imran Khan, wife Bushra Bibi granted bail in different cases The attack As per police, four members of the Frontier Constabulary, a paramilitary police assistance force, and two Pakistani security guards are among the dead. Talking to AFP, district police chief Asif Bahadur said, "They were armed with light and heavy weapons and fired mortar shells, killing six security personnel at the main entrance." The Pakistan police engaged in an exchange of fire with the militants, forcing them to flee. "The exchange of fire continued for more than an hour. Police forced the militants to flee," said Bahadur. Also read | Pakistan govt calls Imran Khan 'liar' over his role in alleged removal of Gen Munir as ISI chief Who is behind the attack? While no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, the local chapter of the Taliban — which happens to be the most active militant group in the region, is believed to be responsible. The attackers, as per district police chief Asif Bahadur, are believed to have originated from the nearby North Waziristan district, which has a history of militancy and borders Afghanistan. The attack comes amidst a rise in militancy in Pakistan following the Taliban's return to power in the neighbouring country. Militant attacks in Pakistan have primarily targeted security forces and foreign interests accused of exploitation. The Hungarian embassy in Islamabad stated that it is assessing the situation but has no immediate plans for diplomatic action. Who is Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)? The Pakistan Taliban, known as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), was formed in 2007 by militants who separated from the Afghan Taliban to focus on Islamabad for its support of the US invasion. In a separate incident, militants attacked two girls' schools in the province, destroying nine classrooms without causing any casualties. The attack has not been claimed by any group. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan: Six die as Hungarian energy firm fends off attack by dozens of militants

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<p>With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) causing chaos across the country, the renowned clerics of Pakistan on Monday issued a fatwa (religious document) denouncing terrorism and terror activities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The clerics, mostly hailing from the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in the 14-page 'fatwa' said taking up arms against the state was 'haraam' (forbidden) in the Sharia (Islamic law).&nbsp;</p>

<p>It further said those declaring war and picking up weapons against the authorities deserved punishment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Recently some so-called ulema tried to create chaos using Islam. After that, it became our responsibility to issue the fatwa," one of the clerics and signatories of the fatwa was quoted as saying by The Dawn.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The clerics added that not every person in the country had to declare jihad, referring to the TTP terrorists. The fatwa cleared that only the 'head of an Islamic state' could declare jihad.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>What is happening in Pakistan?</strong></p>

<p>Pakistan is on the brink of 'Balkanisation' as the terror outfit has sown seeds of anarchy across the country. Since last year, TTP has executed more than 100 attacks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The series of attacks started after talks between the government and TTP collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-pakistan-become-a-suicide-state-546188" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'?</strong></a></p>

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<p>During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, TTP has fashioned itself along the lines of the Afghan Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike what the officials sitting in Islamabad believed, TTP since its inception has been anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-efforts-to-bring-ttp-to-table-underway-interior-minister-549594" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Pakistan’s efforts to bring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan to table underway: Interior minister</strong></a></p>

<p>The officials have since conceded that engaging in talks with the terror outfit was a big mistake and that all avenues of diplomacy had been exhausted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) causing chaos across the country, the renowned clerics of Pakistan on Monday issued a fatwa (religious document) denouncing terrorism and terror activities.

With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) causing chaos across the country, the renowned clerics of Pakistan on Monday issued a fatwa (religious document) denouncing terrorism and terror activities. The clerics, mostly hailing from the restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in the 14-page 'fatwa' said taking up arms against the state was 'haraam' (forbidden) in the Sharia (Islamic law). It further said those declaring war and picking up weapons against the authorities deserved punishment. “Recently some so-called ulema tried to create chaos using Islam. After that, it became our responsibility to issue the fatwa," one of the clerics and signatories of the fatwa was quoted as saying by The Dawn. The clerics added that not every person in the country had to declare jihad, referring to the TTP terrorists. The fatwa cleared that only the 'head of an Islamic state' could declare jihad. What is happening in Pakistan? Pakistan is on the brink of 'Balkanisation' as the terror outfit has sown seeds of anarchy across the country. Since last year, TTP has executed more than 100 attacks. The series of attacks started after talks between the government and TTP collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster. WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'? × During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, TTP has fashioned itself along the lines of the Afghan Taliban. Unlike what the officials sitting in Islamabad believed, TTP since its inception has been anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well. Read more: Pakistan’s efforts to bring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan to table underway: Interior minister The officials have since conceded that engaging in talks with the terror outfit was a big mistake and that all avenues of diplomacy had been exhausted. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pakistani clerics issue 'fatwa' denouncing terrorism as TTP continues its onslaught

<p>Pakistan’s interior minister Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of Islamabad being open to talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The minister said&nbsp;efforts to bring the outlawed group to the table are underway.&nbsp;This comes after Sanaullah on Wednesday had said that Pakistan won’t hold talks with the banned TTP or any other terrorist organisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before initiating the talks,&nbsp;the group would have to surrender before the law and put aside arms and ammunition, he said, reported Pakistan Today. Pakistan must approach the situation in a way that keeps the TTP at its "lowest level," thereby preventing terrorist attacks in the future, he added.</p>

<p>“You will see the decisions that were made in regards to this being implemented in the coming days,” the minister said.</p>

<p>His comments came after the NSC reiterated its intention to destroy terrorist organisations operating within the nation.</p>

<p>Pakistan has lately been witnessing a series of deadly attacks carried out by TTP, after the group formally broke the ceasefire pact with Islamabad in November 2022, Geo News reported. The attacks were believed to be planned by Afghanistan-based TTP leaders.<br />
<br />
The change in stance comes after&nbsp;the proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)&nbsp;threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://wionnews.com/south-asia/pakistan-says-will-target-ttp-on-afghan-soil-taliban-says-things-can-be-resolved-by-dialogue-548657" hreflang="en">Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate</a></strong></p>

<p>According to Pakistan Today, TTP shares ideologies with the Afghan Taliban and executed over 100 attacks last year. The attacks began when the group's peace negotiations with the Pakistan government started to sputter.</p>

<p>While addressing a press conference, Sanaullah assured that the government was taking initiative to combat terrorism. He further said that making the state's counterterrorism operations public would only jeopardise its success.</p>

<p>“But this should not be taken to mean that nothing is being done,” the minister said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan Minister 'open to negotiating with TTP'</strong></p>

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<p>Talking about the recent National Security Committee (NSC) meeting, Sanaullah said, the forum has decided to adopt a "zero tolerance" policy to countering terrorism with “no mixed messages and no differentiation between good or bad terrorists.”</p>

<p>Earlier, there were speculations that the Pakistan government might launch a military operation against the TTP, but that doesn’t seem to be happening, given the minister’s latest comments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For long now, Islamabad has been accusing the Taliban of providing a safe haven to TTP leaders on Afghan soil, a claim that Kabul rebuffs. However, Taliban chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid recently said the Afghan government wants improved ties with all its neighbours, including Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan’s interior minister Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of Islamabad being open to talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The minister said efforts to bring the outlawed group to the table are underway.

Pakistan’s interior minister Rana Sanaullah has hinted at the possibility of Islamabad being open to talks with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The minister said efforts to bring the outlawed group to the table are underway. This comes after Sanaullah on Wednesday had said that Pakistan won’t hold talks with the banned TTP or any other terrorist organisation. Before initiating the talks, the group would have to surrender before the law and put aside arms and ammunition, he said, reported Pakistan Today. Pakistan must approach the situation in a way that keeps the TTP at its "lowest level," thereby preventing terrorist attacks in the future, he added. “You will see the decisions that were made in regards to this being implemented in the coming days,” the minister said. His comments came after the NSC reiterated its intention to destroy terrorist organisations operating within the nation. Pakistan has lately been witnessing a series of deadly attacks carried out by TTP, after the group formally broke the ceasefire pact with Islamabad in November 2022, Geo News reported. The attacks were believed to be planned by Afghanistan-based TTP leaders. The change in stance comes after the proscribed terrorist outfit, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) threatened to eliminate the ministers of the ruling coalition government if the latter continues to take tough measures against the militants “to please America”. Also Read | Pakistan says will target TTP on Afghan soil, Taliban say would not let anyone attack Islamic Emirate According to Pakistan Today, TTP shares ideologies with the Afghan Taliban and executed over 100 attacks last year. The attacks began when the group's peace negotiations with the Pakistan government started to sputter. While addressing a press conference, Sanaullah assured that the government was taking initiative to combat terrorism. He further said that making the state's counterterrorism operations public would only jeopardise its success. “But this should not be taken to mean that nothing is being done,” the minister said. Watch | Pakistan Minister 'open to negotiating with TTP' Talking about the recent National Security Committee (NSC) meeting, Sanaullah said, the forum has decided to adopt a "zero tolerance" policy to countering terrorism with “no mixed messages and no differentiation between good or bad terrorists.” Earlier, there were speculations that the Pakistan government might launch a military operation against the TTP, but that doesn’t seem to be happening, given the minister’s latest comments. For long now, Islamabad has been accusing the Taliban of providing a safe haven to TTP leaders on Afghan soil, a claim that Kabul rebuffs. However, Taliban chief spokesperson Zabiullah Mujahid recently said the Afghan government wants improved ties with all its neighbours, including Pakistan. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan’s efforts to bring Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan to table underway: Interior minister

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<p>With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) increasing its intensity of terrorist attacks across the country, the Pakistani government is mulling launching a military offensive, according to Pakistani media reports.&nbsp;Close-door discussions have taken place over TTP and government officials are prepared to take counter-measures against an organisation that was allowed to grow and develop under their wings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The situation in certain areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the tribal districts, has deteriorated to the extent that a major military offensive is not ruled out,” an anonymous official was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The talks with the TTP are no longer taking place and the return of militants as part of an earlier understanding will have to be reversed.”</p>

<p>The officials conceded that engaging in talks with the terror outfit was a big mistake and that all avenues of diplomacy had been exhausted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-has-pakistan-become-a-suicide-state-546188" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Last month, TTP announced via a letter that it was calling off the ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of gruesome, coordinated terrorist attacks have taken place across Pakistan with TTP claiming the responsibility for the majority.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The talks between the government and TTP had collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-calls-off-ceasefire-with-pakistan-government-538253" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>What is TTP?</strong></p>

<p>TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Unlike what the officials sitting in Islamabad believed, TTP since its inception has been anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well.</p>

<p>Taliban, which the Pakistani government supports in one way or another, has been secretly supporting TTP terrorists as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Experts are of the view that by allowing the Taliban and TTP to grow, Pakistan is effectively setting itself up for the same fate as Afghanistan.</p>

<p>The military offensive is perhaps the last roll of the dice by the Pakistani government to stop the TTP before it grows into an even more sinister threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) increasing its intensity of terrorist attacks across the country, the Pakistani government is mulling launching a military offensive, according to Pakistani media reports.

With a rogue Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) increasing its intensity of terrorist attacks across the country, the Pakistani government is mulling launching a military offensive, according to Pakistani media reports. Close-door discussions have taken place over TTP and government officials are prepared to take counter-measures against an organisation that was allowed to grow and develop under their wings. “The situation in certain areas of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the tribal districts, has deteriorated to the extent that a major military offensive is not ruled out,” an anonymous official was quoted as saying by The Express Tribune. “The talks with the TTP are no longer taking place and the return of militants as part of an earlier understanding will have to be reversed.” The officials conceded that engaging in talks with the terror outfit was a big mistake and that all avenues of diplomacy had been exhausted. WATCH | Gravitas: Has Pakistan become a 'suicide state'? × Last month, TTP announced via a letter that it was calling off the ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistani government. Since then, a series of gruesome, coordinated terrorist attacks have taken place across Pakistan with TTP claiming the responsibility for the majority. The talks between the government and TTP had collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster. During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Read more: Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government What is TTP? TTP, once considered an ally by the Pakistani government, has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban. Unlike what the officials sitting in Islamabad believed, TTP since its inception has been anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well. Taliban, which the Pakistani government supports in one way or another, has been secretly supporting TTP terrorists as well. Experts are of the view that by allowing the Taliban and TTP to grow, Pakistan is effectively setting itself up for the same fate as Afghanistan. The military offensive is perhaps the last roll of the dice by the Pakistani government to stop the TTP before it grows into an even more sinister threat. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Troubled by home-grown monster TTP, Pakistan govt mulls military offensive: Reports

<p>A suicide bomber on Wednesday targetted a police truck in western Pakistan, killing three and injuring 23 people in the process. Terror outfit&nbsp;Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) also known as Pakistan Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bomber targetted a police team preparing to escort polio vaccinators to the city of Quetta, according to senior police officials quoted as saying by AFP.&nbsp;A policeman, a woman and a child have been ascertained as the casualties so far.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath of the blast, Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo condemned the attack and said, “All those involved in this incident and their facilitators will be brought under the law."</p>

<p>The attack comes a day after TTP in a letter announced it was calling off the ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistan government in June.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-ttp-calls-off-ceasefire-with-pakistan-government-538320"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan: TTP calls off ceasefire with Pakistan government</strong></a></p>

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<p>"As military operations are ongoing against mujahideen in different areas...so it is imperative for you to carry out attacks wherever you can in the entire country," it said in a statement.</p>

<p>The talks between the government and TTP had collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster. During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-calls-off-ceasefire-with-pakistan-government-538253"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>What is TTP?</strong></p>

<p>TTP has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban but is essentially anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well.</p>

<p>Taliban, which the Pakistani government supports in one way or another, has been secretly supporting TTP terrorists as well. Experts are of the view that by allowing the Taliban and TTP to grow, Pakistan is effectively setting itself up for the same fate as Afghanistan.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A suicide bomber on Wednesday targetted a police truck in western Pakistan, killing three and injuring 23 people in the process. Terror outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) also known as Pakistan Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.

A suicide bomber on Wednesday targetted a police truck in western Pakistan, killing three and injuring 23 people in the process. Terror outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) also known as Pakistan Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. The bomber targetted a police team preparing to escort polio vaccinators to the city of Quetta, according to senior police officials quoted as saying by AFP. A policeman, a woman and a child have been ascertained as the casualties so far. In the aftermath of the blast, Balochistan Chief Minister Abdul Quddus Bizenjo condemned the attack and said, “All those involved in this incident and their facilitators will be brought under the law." The attack comes a day after TTP in a letter announced it was calling off the ceasefire agreed upon with the Pakistan government in June. WATCH | Pakistan: TTP calls off ceasefire with Pakistan government × "As military operations are ongoing against mujahideen in different areas...so it is imperative for you to carry out attacks wherever you can in the entire country," it said in a statement. The talks between the government and TTP had collapsed in August as the former attempted to rein in the homegrown monster. During the talks, TTP refused to budge on its demand for the reversal of the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Read more: Pakistan Taliban call off ceasefire with Pakistan government What is TTP? TTP has fashioned itself on the lines of the Afghan Taliban but is essentially anti-Pakistan in its stance. The outfit has repeatedly refused to acknowledge the Durand Line as well. Taliban, which the Pakistani government supports in one way or another, has been secretly supporting TTP terrorists as well. Experts are of the view that by allowing the Taliban and TTP to grow, Pakistan is effectively setting itself up for the same fate as Afghanistan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Three dead, 23 injured in a suicide bombing in Pakistan after TTP ends ceasefire

<p>Even before the Afghan Taliban arrived at the gates of Kabul, Pakistan started discussions with the government-in-waiting to deal with militant outfits such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch groups operating out of the neighbouring country.</p>

<p>In their interactions with the Taliban leadership, Pakistani officials made it clear that all these groups must not only be denied operating space but also face military action.</p>

<p>According to reports, the Taliban is now mediating talks between the banned outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Pakistan government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bowing-down-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-approves-tlps-de-proscription-427362">Bowing down? Pakistan PM Imran Khan approves TLP's de-proscription</a></strong></p>

<p>The chief of the Haqqani network, the Islamic Emirate's acting interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, is thought to have played the role of mediator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Although the Islamic Emirate declined to confirm the reports, it said it would play its part.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The stance of the Islamic Emirate is that it will act in a role to resolve problems that are important," said Bilal Karimi, deputy spokesman of the Islamic Emirate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the absence of an official confirmation, reports suggest that the TTP agreed to announce a ceasefire for a month in exchange for the release of dozens of the group's prisoners.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-want-prisoners-released-before-ceasefire-talks-427229">Pakistan Taliban want prisoners released before ceasefire talks</a></strong></p>

<p>However, there are differing views regarding whether mediation of talks would serve Afghanistan's interests. TTP previously demanded the release of its prisoners as a pre-condition for a ceasefire.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pakistani Ambassador to Afghanistan, Mansoor Ahmed Khan, said he could neither confirm nor deny reports of talks between Pakistan and the TTP. He added that engaging with the TTP or its affiliates should be seen in the context of Pakistan and the Taliban government's counter-terrorism efforts and the strategy they agreed on.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Taliban appoints 44 governors, police chiefs around Afghanistan</strong></p>

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<p>According to the leader of the National Solidarity Movement, Sayed Ishaq Gailani, the Islamic Emirate considers the ongoing negotiations to be an achievement.</p>

<p>"If Sirajuddin Haqqani facilitated the negotiations, it is an honour for the people of Afghanistan," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>TTP has been active in several parts of Pakistan since 2007.&nbsp;</p>


Even before the Afghan Taliban arrived at the gates of Kabul, Pakistan started discussions with the government-in-waiting to deal with militant outfits such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch groups operating out of the neighbouring country.

Even before the Afghan Taliban arrived at the gates of Kabul, Pakistan started discussions with the government-in-waiting to deal with militant outfits such as Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch groups operating out of the neighbouring country. In their interactions with the Taliban leadership, Pakistani officials made it clear that all these groups must not only be denied operating space but also face military action. According to reports, the Taliban is now mediating talks between the banned outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Pakistan government. Also read | Bowing down? Pakistan PM Imran Khan approves TLP's de-proscription The chief of the Haqqani network, the Islamic Emirate's acting interior minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, is thought to have played the role of mediator. Although the Islamic Emirate declined to confirm the reports, it said it would play its part. "The stance of the Islamic Emirate is that it will act in a role to resolve problems that are important," said Bilal Karimi, deputy spokesman of the Islamic Emirate. Despite the absence of an official confirmation, reports suggest that the TTP agreed to announce a ceasefire for a month in exchange for the release of dozens of the group's prisoners. Also read | Pakistan Taliban want prisoners released before ceasefire talks However, there are differing views regarding whether mediation of talks would serve Afghanistan's interests. TTP previously demanded the release of its prisoners as a pre-condition for a ceasefire. The Pakistani Ambassador to Afghanistan, Mansoor Ahmed Khan, said he could neither confirm nor deny reports of talks between Pakistan and the TTP. He added that engaging with the TTP or its affiliates should be seen in the context of Pakistan and the Taliban government's counter-terrorism efforts and the strategy they agreed on. Watch | Taliban appoints 44 governors, police chiefs around Afghanistan According to the leader of the National Solidarity Movement, Sayed Ishaq Gailani, the Islamic Emirate considers the ongoing negotiations to be an achievement. "If Sirajuddin Haqqani facilitated the negotiations, it is an honour for the people of Afghanistan," he said. TTP has been active in several parts of Pakistan since 2007.

Taliban mediating talks between Pakistan's Tehreek-e-Taliban, Islamabad: Report

<p>Forged stamps and documents of Indian and Afghan governments along with literature of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have been recovered during a raid at a printing press in Pakistan's restive northwestern region, according to a media report on Thursday.</p>

<p>Police raided the printing press in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's Peshawar after acting on a tip-off that clandestine activities were going on at the Yousafzai Printing Press, the Express Tribune reported.</p>

<p>"Police recovered forged documents and stamps of Afghan and Indian government besides literature of TTP from a printing press in the old city area of Qissakhwani Bazaar," the paper quoted the Station House Officer (SHO) Muhmamad Noor Khan as saying.</p>

<p>Following the raid, police arrested the owner of the press Qari Saif Ullah and was under interrogation.</p>

<p>"Charges will be framed after initial investigation," police said.</p>


Forged stamps and documents of Indian and Afghan governments along with literature of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have been recovered during a raid at a printing press in Pakistan's restive northwestern region, according to a media report on Thursday.

Forged stamps and documents of Indian and Afghan governments along with literature of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have been recovered during a raid at a printing press in Pakistan's restive northwestern region, according to a media report on Thursday. Police raided the printing press in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's Peshawar after acting on a tip-off that clandestine activities were going on at the Yousafzai Printing Press, the Express Tribune reported. "Police recovered forged documents and stamps of Afghan and Indian government besides literature of TTP from a printing press in the old city area of Qissakhwani Bazaar," the paper quoted the Station House Officer (SHO) Muhmamad Noor Khan as saying. Following the raid, police arrested the owner of the press Qari Saif Ullah and was under interrogation. "Charges will be framed after initial investigation," police said.

Forged Indian, Afghan visa stamps, documents recovered in Pakistan

<p>The 24 October attack at a police training academy in Quetta, Balochistan has once again highlighted the complexity and multitude of security challenges that Pakistan faces. The attack saw three gunmen taking students hostage and triggering two suicide bombs which killed 61 police cadets and injured over 120 others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The brutal attack echoes of the series of terrorist attacks that Pakistan has witnessed in the last few years, including the December 2014 massacre in Peshawar, the January 2016 assault on Bacha Khan University, the March 2016 suicide bomb attack in Lahore and the most recent August 2016 suicide bomb in Quetta. It is a stinging reminder for Pakistan that it has miles to go before such attacks cease to happen.</p>

<p>The government had earlier stated that the attack was carried out by Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, a Sunni supremacist militant group that is affiliated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or the Pakistani Taliban. While the group has not officially confirmed this, the Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is disturbing given that Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (a faction of the TTP) and ISIS carried out the bombing in August 2016 which killed 70 civil servants and lawyers at the Quetta Civil Hospital. Despite growing evidence of militant factions and online recruits being involved in terrorist activities, Pakistan has repeatedly stated that the IS has no organisational presence in Pakistan. The recent attack should bring them to the realisation and acceptance that the Islamic State is a serious threat. Its collusion with homegrown terror outfits, such as the TTP makes it an even more grim and dangerous adversary.</p>

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<h5>The recent attack should bring Pakistan to the realisation and acceptance that the Islamic State is a serious threat. Its collusion with homegrown terror outfits, such as the TTP makes it an even more grim and dangerous adversary.</h5>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Few days before the December 2014 attack at the Army Public School in Peshawar that killed 169 students and teachers, the military announced its counter-terrorism operation Zarb-e-Azb. It was expected to root out militancy from Pakistan&rsquo;s tribal areas along its border with Afghanistan. Since then the military, arguably, has&nbsp; had some success in this regard. While the army has cracked down on terror groups operating in the area, the operations have led to a mass displacement of militants across the border into Afghanistan and into other parts of Pakistan. This has forced thousands of militants to join the Afghan Taliban and the Islamic State. While the latter operates in areas along Afghanistan&rsquo;s eastern border, the former continues to threaten the Kabul government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Groups such as the Pakistani Taliban have remained resilient and resourceful in spite of the army&rsquo;s operations and the frequency and intensity of the recent attacks suggest a greater coordination between the TTP and its factions and the Islamic State. Any such alliance spells serious danger for Pakistan.</p>

<p>The recent attacks should be a wake-up call for the military. Pakistan has a history of differentiating between good and bad terrorists, and while it has cracked down on groups such as the TTP that threatened Pakistan&rsquo;s internal security, it has helped groups that attack Afghanistan and India to flourish. Its support for the Afghan Taliban, Haqqani Network, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad has not only been one of the root causes of terrorism in South Asia but has also had the reverse effect of threatening Pakistan&rsquo;s survival. Pakistan&rsquo;s duplicity in assisting the Afghan Taliban and killing members of the Paksitan Taliban has cost it greatly and the TTP&rsquo;s attacks in Balochistan are a consequence of that.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Quetta as the capital of Balochistan has suffered from attacks not only from militants but also from Baloch separatists, each with a separate intention. Violent attacks by Baloch separatists seek to break Balochistan away from the Pakistan state; militants and terror attacks are intended to attack and destabilise the state. This is why recent attacks have targeted those supporting the government or the system in some way, for instance, lawyers, civil servants, and police cadets.</p>

<p>Balochistan also provides an attractive target for militants as it is home to the $46 billion China-Pakistan-Economic- Corridor (CPEC) that extends from China&rsquo;s Xinjiang province to the port city of Gwadar in Balochistan. Pakistan has repeatedly assured China of the security of the port and of the CPEC project in general. However, regular attacks in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan are sure to aggravate any fears that the Chinese might be having. The attack in Quetta, therefore, should not only be understood as a brutal attack on Pakistan&rsquo;s civil society but also as an attack on the stability and future of Pakistan&rsquo;s economic dream project.</p>

<p>Such attacks question Pakistan&rsquo;s earnestness on fighting terrorism and demonstrate the failure of the government and the military to successfully create a national counter-terrorism agenda. The National Action Plan (NAP), which was implemented after the 2015 Peshawar attack, aimed to strengthen the capacity-building of civilian institutions to deal with terrorism. While the military has arrested numerous suspected militants and enforced crackdowns on some militant organizations, especially in North Waziristan and Karachi, key elements of the NAP remain unused and forgotten.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NAP lays emphasis on countering militancy on the internet, however, the government has done little in controlling terrorist and militant propaganda both on the internet and offline. In addition, there is no clarity as to which organisation in the government is responsible for this. The set up of military courts to fast track terror cases and the lifting of the moratorium on the death penalty was met with much support among civil society. However, such actions are short term solutions to a complex problem. The government must realise this and simultaneously work on strengthening the civilian judicial system to try terror cases. It also needs to address problems in the system that allow terrorists and militants to walk away scot-free.</p>

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<p>Last week, the Pakistan government froze the bank assets of over 5,100 militants including Masood Azhar, the leader of Jaish-e-Mohammad. However, such action is symbolic and not rooted in a change of attitude. Increasing pressure from the United States to act against terrorists has led Pakistan government to take this step and it is unlikely that they will see it through the end. That being said, Pakistan must realise that by choking terrorists&rsquo; funds, in investigating cases of terror-financing and through prevention of fund-raising by militant organisations, it can begin a slow path of course- correction and redeem itself steadily in the eyes of the world. Until then, the death of innocent police cadets will not be the last time Quetta and Pakistan bleeds.</p>


Terror attacks demonstrate the failure of the Pakistani government to successfully create a national counter-terrorism agenda

The 24 October attack at a police training academy in Quetta, Balochistan has once again highlighted the complexity and multitude of security challenges that Pakistan faces. The attack saw three gunmen taking students hostage and triggering two suicide bombs which killed 61 police cadets and injured over 120 others. The brutal attack echoes of the series of terrorist attacks that Pakistan has witnessed in the last few years, including the December 2014 massacre in Peshawar, the January 2016 assault on Bacha Khan University, the March 2016 suicide bomb attack in Lahore and the most recent August 2016 suicide bomb in Quetta. It is a stinging reminder for Pakistan that it has miles to go before such attacks cease to happen. The government had earlier stated that the attack was carried out by Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, a Sunni supremacist militant group that is affiliated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) or the Pakistani Taliban. While the group has not officially confirmed this, the Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack. This is disturbing given that Jamaat-ul-Ahrar (a faction of the TTP) and ISIS carried out the bombing in August 2016 which killed 70 civil servants and lawyers at the Quetta Civil Hospital. Despite growing evidence of militant factions and online recruits being involved in terrorist activities, Pakistan has repeatedly stated that the IS has no organisational presence in Pakistan. The recent attack should bring them to the realisation and acceptance that the Islamic State is a serious threat. Its collusion with homegrown terror outfits, such as the TTP makes it an even more grim and dangerous adversary. The recent attack should bring Pakistan to the realisation and acceptance that the Islamic State is a serious threat. Its collusion with homegrown terror outfits, such as the TTP makes it an even more grim and dangerous adversary. × Few days before the December 2014 attack at the Army Public School in Peshawar that killed 169 students and teachers, the military announced its counter-terrorism operation Zarb-e-Azb. It was expected to root out militancy from Pakistan’s tribal areas along its border with Afghanistan. Since then the military, arguably, has had some success in this regard. While the army has cracked down on terror groups operating in the area, the operations have led to a mass displacement of militants across the border into Afghanistan and into other parts of Pakistan. This has forced thousands of militants to join the Afghan Taliban and the Islamic State. While the latter operates in areas along Afghanistan’s eastern border, the former continues to threaten the Kabul government. Groups such as the Pakistani Taliban have remained resilient and resourceful in spite of the army’s operations and the frequency and intensity of the recent attacks suggest a greater coordination between the TTP and its factions and the Islamic State. Any such alliance spells serious danger for Pakistan. The recent attacks should be a wake-up call for the military. Pakistan has a history of differentiating between good and bad terrorists, and while it has cracked down on groups such as the TTP that threatened Pakistan’s internal security, it has helped groups that attack Afghanistan and India to flourish. Its support for the Afghan Taliban, Haqqani Network, Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammad has not only been one of the root causes of terrorism in South Asia but has also had the reverse effect of threatening Pakistan’s survival. Pakistan’s duplicity in assisting the Afghan Taliban and killing members of the Paksitan Taliban has cost it greatly and the TTP’s attacks in Balochistan are a consequence of that. Pakistan has a history of differentiating between good and bad terrorists × Quetta as the capital of Balochistan has suffered from attacks not only from militants but also from Baloch separatists, each with a separate intention. Violent attacks by Baloch separatists seek to break Balochistan away from the Pakistan state; militants and terror attacks are intended to attack and destabilise the state. This is why recent attacks have targeted those supporting the government or the system in some way, for instance, lawyers, civil servants, and police cadets. Balochistan also provides an attractive target for militants as it is home to the $46 billion China-Pakistan-Economic- Corridor (CPEC) that extends from China’s Xinjiang province to the port city of Gwadar in Balochistan. Pakistan has repeatedly assured China of the security of the port and of the CPEC project in general. However, regular attacks in Quetta and other parts of Balochistan are sure to aggravate any fears that the Chinese might be having. The attack in Quetta, therefore, should not only be understood as a brutal attack on Pakistan’s civil society but also as an attack on the stability and future of Pakistan’s economic dream project. Such attacks question Pakistan’s earnestness on fighting terrorism and demonstrate the failure of the government and the military to successfully create a national counter-terrorism agenda. The National Action Plan (NAP), which was implemented after the 2015 Peshawar attack, aimed to strengthen the capacity-building of civilian institutions to deal with terrorism. While the military has arrested numerous suspected militants and enforced crackdowns on some militant organizations, especially in North Waziristan and Karachi, key elements of the NAP remain unused and forgotten. NAP lays emphasis on countering militancy on the internet, however, the government has done little in controlling terrorist and militant propaganda both on the internet and offline. In addition, there is no clarity as to which organisation in the government is responsible for this. The set up of military courts to fast track terror cases and the lifting of the moratorium on the death penalty was met with much support among civil society. However, such actions are short term solutions to a complex problem. The government must realise this and simultaneously work on strengthening the civilian judicial system to try terror cases. It also needs to address problems in the system that allow terrorists and militants to walk away scot-free. The government has done little in controlling terrorist and militant propaganda both on the internet and offline × Last week, the Pakistan government froze the bank assets of over 5,100 militants including Masood Azhar, the leader of Jaish-e-Mohammad. However, such action is symbolic and not rooted in a change of attitude. Increasing pressure from the United States to act against terrorists has led Pakistan government to take this step and it is unlikely that they will see it through the end. That being said, Pakistan must realise that by choking terrorists’ funds, in investigating cases of terror-financing and through prevention of fund-raising by militant organisations, it can begin a slow path of course- correction and redeem itself steadily in the eyes of the world. Until then, the death of innocent police cadets will not be the last time Quetta and Pakistan bleeds.

Quetta terror attack: As Quetta bleeds, Pakistan must remember what is at stake