We owe a lot to our armed forces

The nation should not have any doubt about its armed forces’ unshakable commitment and iron resolve to combat terrorism and free the country from the monster that has done incalculable harm to the fabric of Pakistani society and killed and maimed thousands in the last many years.

It hardly needs pointing out that our army and law enforcement agencies have rendered innumerable sacrifices in the war on terror, laying down their lives in the line of duty. It’s only due to them that we sleep in peace and live lives without any fear—peace in Karachi is a prime example of their deep commitment and capability to get rid of the scourge of terrorism.

In the last few days, the law enforcement agencies, including police and the Rangers, have cracked down on terrorists across the length and breadth of the country. Whether it’s combating the enemy at the border or ensuring peace and security within cities, the army and police have done remarkable jobs for which they deserve our appreciation.

On October 22, the Rangers and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Karachi’s Raees Goth area killed eight hardcore terrorists in an encounter. Although the identity of the terrorists is yet to be ascertained, the raid was conducted in the area on a tip-off about the presence of Ansarul Sharia Pakistan (ASP) terrorists in the area.

It’s ironic, however, that despite their immense sacrifice, our armed forces, especially the military, continue to be targeted by some unscrupulous politicians for their own vested interests. The nation owes a great deal of gratitude to the soldiers and officers who have been constantly laying down their lives to protect the motherland from the menace of terrorism.