Gen Asim Munir address University Students

Web Desk: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has reaffirmed that the Pakistan Army will never allow the banned outfit Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP)—which he referred to as Fitna al Khawarij—to impose its extremist ideology on the country.

“We will never allow this kind of perverted group to dictate its values in Pakistan,” General Asim Munir stated while interacting with a delegation of university and college students from across the country on February 12, 2025.

A video of his interaction was later released by national media, highlighting the Pakistan Army’s ongoing fight against terrorism and its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

Pakistan’s Battle Against Terrorism

Pakistan has been facing a resurgence of terrorism and militancy in its western border regions since the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021. The security situation worsened last year, with terrorist attacks leading to the highest casualties in six years. According to the Islamabad-based Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), over 1,500 civilians, security personnel, and militants lost their lives in 2024 alone.

The Pakistan Army continues its counter-terrorism operations against outlawed militant groups daily. The army chief made it clear that the army does not endorse the extremist interpretation of religion propagated by such groups.

Pakistan Army’s Commitment to Women’s Rights

During his address, COAS Asim Munir strongly condemned terrorists for violating the rights of women.

“Islam is the first religion in the world to elevate the status of women, whether as a mother, wife, or sister. No one has the right to take these rights away,” he asserted, denouncing the terrorist ideology that seeks to oppress women.

Nation’s Support for Pakistan Army

The Commander-in-Chief expressed his optimism about Pakistan’s future, saying that engaging with the youth reassures him that the country is in “safe hands.”

He emphasized the unity of the Pakistan Army, stating that ethnicity or regional differences hold no significance in the military.

“We do not distinguish between Pashtun, Sindhi, Baloch, or Punjabi. We fight as comrades. What matters is ‘Pakistaniat,’ and we take pride in that,” he said.

Pakistan Army’s Stance on Terrorism

COAS Asim Munir made it clear that the Pakistan Army is actively fighting fasadis (miscreants) and extremist elements.

“Terrorists claim to be fighting jihad, but they are actually Kharijites (Khawarij)—those who have strayed from the true teachings of Islam by distorting its principles,” he remarked.

However, he noted that if terrorists surrender and seek forgiveness, the state will consider granting them mercy.

Pakistan Army’s Resolve

The army chief reiterated that as long as the nation and the youth stand behind the Pakistan Army, the country’s security will remain strong.

“Pakistan Army, Insha’Allah, will never fall. We fight like comrades, with the spirit of sacrifice,” he declared.

Conclusion

With growing concerns over security in Pakistan, the army chief’s statements reaffirm the Pakistan Army’s determination to eliminate terrorism and safeguard national integrity. The fight against extremism continues, ensuring that groups like TTP and Fitna al Khawarij do not impose their radical ideologies on Pakistan.