Senate Unanimously Condemns Afghan Aggression, Backs Military Operation
The Senate of Pakistan on Friday unanimously adopted a strong resolution condemning what it described as "unprovoked aggression" by the Afghan Taliban across the western border. The resolution firmly asserted that Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity will not be compromised under any circumstances.
National Unity and Military Support
The House lauded the courage and professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces and reaffirmed national unity in support of the military. The resolution highlighted that Pakistan has faced extraordinary social, economic, and security challenges over the past four decades, noting that cross-border incursions and the presence of anti-Pakistan terrorist elements reflect behavior contrary to mutual understanding and regional peace.
The Senate urged Afghanistan to immediately cease all hostile actions and ensure its land is not used for terrorism against Pakistan. This comes as Pakistani security forces launched "Operation Ghazab Lil Haq," carrying out coordinated air and ground strikes against Afghan Taliban positions in Kabul, Kandahar, Paktia, and Nangarhar provinces.
Operation Details and Casualties
According to security sources and Prime Minister's spokesperson Mosharraf Zaidi, the military operation resulted in significant losses for the Taliban. At least 133 Taliban fighters were killed and more than 200 wounded, while 27 posts were destroyed and nine captured during the response to what officials described as unprovoked cross-border aggression.
Political Leadership Statements
Senior leader Rana Sanaullah emphasized that the Senate resolution means the entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces. He praised Pakistan's military for delivering what he called an "excellent answer" to Afghanistan's incursions and stated that terrorists were given opportunities to reform, but if they continued their activities, they would be eliminated.
Rana referenced weeks of negotiations in Doha and proposals for a commission of friendly countries to monitor the Durand Line, stating clearly: "Today's message is that the whole nation stands with the armed forces." He stressed that political matters should be resolved through dialogue but noted the other side's refusal to engage constructively.
Imran Khan's Health and Legal Situation
Regarding PTI founder Imran Khan's eye condition, Sanaullah added that the prime minister had invited negotiations three times without receiving a response. He stated that doctors should be present and treatment could be discussed through proper channels.
Lawyer and Senator Syed Ali Zafar stressed that the life and release of the PTI founder is critically important, calling it both a government responsibility and a basic human right. He urged that personal doctors be included in his treatment, describing this as a "genuine request" that should be addressed seriously.
Calls for Dialogue and Regional Security
Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas presented a balanced perspective, stating: "One way to end the war on terrorism is war; the other is dialogue, which should also be pursued." He warned that hostilities with neighbors are dangerous and called for developing a regional security framework by inviting relevant countries to a conference.
Abbas emphasized that internal public support must remain with the armed forces while advocating for a joint parliamentary session, including in-camera briefings, to properly inform lawmakers about the security situation. He questioned whether the war could be won if the public felt completely detached from the process.
Additional Senatorial Support
Senator Manzoor Ahmed revealed that the Taliban had demanded Rs 10 billion, adding that there is no division between the Pakistani public and politicians, with the nation standing firmly with the armed forces. "Our political and military leadership is on the same page," he stated while offering appreciation to the national leadership.
Senator Azam Swati assured the government: "Even if our lives are lost, we will stand with our armed forces. We are with Pakistan." He also said the founder of PTI should be onboarded in all matters, calling it the "need of the hour" for national unity.
Senator Maulana Abdul Wasei offered historical context, remarking: "This is the same Afghanistan for which we staked everything over 40 years... The world has started a war against us in the form of Afghanistan." He added that America, Israel, and India are preparing to encircle Pakistan through coordinated efforts.
NAB Recovery Details
The Ministry of Law presented detailed information in the Senate showing that over the past five years, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had recovered Rs 11.565 trillion. According to the breakdown:
- More than Rs 6.588 billion was recovered through plea bargains
- Over Rs 1.08 billion through voluntary returns
- Rs 3.804 billion under settlements
- Land worth Rs 1.098 trillion was returned to the state
- Miscellaneous recoveries exceeded Rs 47.926 billion
Session Conclusion
The Senate adjourned the session until Monday at 2pm. Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani reiterated that the Senate stands firmly with the Pakistan Army and fully supports its operations against terrorism, emphasizing that national security remains the top priority for all parliamentary representatives.
