Military top brass links regional peace to collective restraint, respect for sovereignty

RAWALPINDI: The military’s top brass on Tuesday stressed that regional peace and stability depend on collective restraint, responsibility, and respect for sovereignty.

The statement came during the 275th Corps Commanders’ Conference at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, chaired by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir, according to an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement.

The conference deliberated on the evolving regional security environment, particularly in light of the recent US-Iran conflict that escalated following US-Israeli strikes and disruptions in Gulf shipping routes. While noting the fragile ceasefire, the forum highlighted the risks posed by emerging geopolitical developments and underscored the need to avoid escalation. It also acknowledged Pakistan’s responsible role in promoting stability and preventing further deterioration.

The military leadership reviewed internal and external security challenges and resolved to sustain the current operational tempo against terrorism. Participants noted progress under Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, launched after cross-border incidents involving the Afghan Taliban, which continues to target terrorist hideouts and infrastructure. The forum criticised Kabul’s alleged support for militant groups, including the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and rejected accusations of targeting civilians, calling them part of a coordinated disinformation campaign.

The conference congratulated the nation on the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, describing it as a symbol of unity and resolve during last year’s Pakistan-India conflict. It emphasised national cohesion under the concept of “Bunyanum Marsoos.”

The forum also condemned ongoing human rights violations and demographic changes in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), reiterating Pakistan’s continued diplomatic, political, and moral support for the Kashmiri people.

The participants paid tribute to martyrs of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilians, reaffirming their sacrifices as central to national resilience. In his concluding remarks, Field Marshal Munir directed commanders to maintain high vigilance, operational readiness, and adaptability to counter evolving conventional and non-conventional threats.