New Season of Jihad under production in Syria, would soon be shown in Afghan theatres

January 6, 2025

DND Report

New Season of Jihad is under production in Syria on the old theme of establishing ‘The Islamic State Khorasan’ having all the characters and actors of Al-Qaeda Jihad season but with a new western attire. Foreign ministers and diplomats of Western countries are meeting and greeting the new leadership of old Al-Qaeda Damascus asking what kind of help the West can provide to Al-Qaeda part II to rule Asia Minor as well as Central Asia and South Asia.

The new arrangement in Syria has several Uzbeks Tajiks and Uyghurs (Chinese Muslims) in the new army and they will not only oversee Jihad in Syria rather will lead thousands of Central Asian fighters present in Syria to launch Jihad in their respective countries of origin. The swift fall of Damascus is similar to the swift fall of Kabul in August 2021 and there are several similarities in pre-fall events of Damascus and Kabul. Reports are coming from Central Asia that Central Asian countries bordering Afghanistan express their fears that new Jihadi lot would be transported from Syria to Afghanistan soon and then would start their activities within Central Asian states.

The money provided by Washington to the Taliban is spent to spread unrest in the region

Reports of intelligence sharing networking among Central Asian states and Russia are undoubted that fears of Central Asian states are not unfounded because recent arrangements between Washington and Kabul confirm that Afghan Taliban have offered their services, as usual, to execute a larger plan of West in the region bordering countries that West considers as ‘adversaries’ such as Iran, Pakistan, China, and Russia that borders Central Asian states as well as Iran. There is no doubt that Russia and China understand the undercurrents of the emerging scenario therefore they are engaging with the Afghan Taliban and Putin’s special envoy, Zamir Kabulov who is an encyclopedia of CIA engagement in the region is having constant contact with Afghan Taliban and China is also engaging them but still Afghan Taliban on following what financially suit them and the reality of the financial cooperation between the US and the current Taliban Afghan government is no more a secret. The question Pakistan is working on is whether is the US showering dollars on the Afghan government for destabilizing the region, which would definitely harm Pakistan.

According to reports about $87 million in US aid is sent to Afghanistan every week, most of which is provided to the Taliban government and its armed groups. In addition, $10 million is given to the Taliban’s Doha office in Qatar every month in the name of “administrative expenses”. Around $40 million provided by Washington is spent on the so-called administrative expenses of the Afghan government, such as the police and Taliban forces, and $47 million is used by terrorist organizations to spread unrest in the region. There are eight primary sources for this $47 million, five of which are subject to international sanctions while three are on the FBI’s most wanted list. Interestingly, groups such as Haqqani are getting the benefit of US-sponsored money although this group is linked to more than 25 terrorist organizations. In addition, Al-Qaeda’s head of military operations, Saif al-Adl, and Osama bin Laden’s extended family are also included. Afghanistan, which has been a center of terrorism for decades, is still the stronghold of many of the world’s major terrorist organizations. About 30 terrorist organizations are active on Afghan soil. Surprisingly, despite international sanctions and lack of cooperation, the Afghan government not only maintains its position but is also sponsoring these organizations.

US-left NATO grade weapons are already in use against Pakistan

Creating safe havens for terrorist organizations in Afghanistan is not possible without the design of Western powers. The direct or indirect support provided by the United States to these organizations is clear evidence that unrest and chaos are being deliberately fostered in the region. Pakistan, which has already fought a long war on terrorism, is the biggest victim of this US-Taliban arrangements and US-left NATO grade weapons are already in use against Pakistan. Attacks, infiltrations, and terrorist incidents on Pakistan from Afghan soil have become routine. Attacks on Chinese projects in Balochistan, increasing terrorism in the tribal areas, and TTP activities are also part of this conspiracy. This situation is disastrous not only for Pakistan but for the entire region. The nexus between the US and the Afghan government has severely damaged the peace of Pakistan. Afghan people are suffering from hunger and poverty, while on the other hand, the Afghan government is busy supporting terrorist organizations. Imagine if intelligence reports of Russia and Central Asian countries were true indicating that sooner Syrian Jihad Season would arrive at the doors of Tajikistan, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Iran, what would be the scenario then? It will take hardly one day to transport Jihadi from Syria to Afghanistan through special flights such as US-sponsored in the 1980s.

The most crucial question is whether will China, Pakistan, Russia, and Central Asian states fight the New Seasons of Jihad together or will everybody think of their immediate interests.

Complaint applications record missing at DC Office Rawalpindi

January 5, 2025

Rawalpindi, Pakistan: The Complaint application Record has been missing at the Deputy Commissioner Office in Rawalpindi.

It has been revealed that there is no record of the applications filed by the petitioners in the Deputy Commissioner Office Rawalpindi. There is no record available of how many applications were submitted against how many officers were throughout the year and what action was taken on them.

According to sources, there is no record of the applications filed by the petitioners against the Revenue Department and other officers in the Deputy Commissioner Office, Assistant Deputy Commissioner General Office and Assistant Commissioner Revenue Office. Even in the open court, the applications are only marked and sent to the petitioners to the next office.

There is no record of this open court either. Sources claim the Commissioner’s Office also seems to be constantly silent in this regard. Sources say that to hide its subordinate staff’s activities, no one responds to the applications. Diary numbers have not been assigned nor have their records been kept to know the performance of the officers. The Deputy Commissioner is giving an OK report due to the lack of application records. Citizens have appealed to the Chief Minister of Punjab and the Chief Secretary of Punjab to take immediate notice of this and collect the records of future applicants so that it can be known what the performance of the institution is.

Is TTP a bunch of mentally sick individuals used by certain powers?

January 4, 2025

By Khalid Khan

The suicide of Abdul Kabir, a member of the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) from the Khwaja Khel area in the Tirah Valley, highlights a critical yet often overlooked issue within the militant groups that reveals the deep mental health struggles leading to extreme outcomes such as suicide. His death is not simply an end but rather the logical conclusion of years spent in the grip of psychological distress, the kind that is often exacerbated by the realities of life within militant organizations.

Kabir’s story is not new and unique. It reflects the severe emotional and psychological toll suffered by many who join militant organizations. Initially, many individuals, including those in the TTP, are drawn to such groups due to poverty, ignorance, and a sense of alienation that has already taken its toll through overwhelming mental distress. These factors, often compounded by a lack of viable alternatives, make them vulnerable to the false promises and manipulation of extremist ideologies. The allure of identity, financial support, and a sense of belonging leads many, like Kabir, to fall into the clutches of groups that offer a warped sense of purpose.

Once embedded within these organizations, the stark realities of violence and extremism quickly set in. The emotional toll of engaging in violence, compounded by the internal contradictions of their cause, often leads to a growing sense of guilt and moral conflict. Kabir’s suicide was the culmination of these internal struggles, with sources indicating that his mental state had deteriorated long before he took his life in the Bhutan Sharif area. Kabir’s involvement in the TTP, a group built on violence and deceit, had increasingly felt at odds with his own moral compass. The realization that the cause he fought for was not rooted in justice but rather in destruction intensified his psychological turmoil.

The situation within the TTP is further compounded by constant infighting, paranoia, and the ever-present threat of death. Militants are frequently pitted against each other, and loyalty is measured by the willingness to participate in violence or betray others. This creates an environment of fear and insecurity, one that is toxic to mental well-being. In Kabir’s case, the overwhelming stress of daily existence, the constant fear of death, and the pressure to remain loyal to the group contributed significantly to his depression.

Many militants, as they witness the consequences of their violent actions, begin to question their beliefs and the legitimacy of the cause they have been fighting for. This realization often triggers deep depression, as they struggle to reconcile their conscience with the harm they’ve caused. Kabir, after years of violent acts, reportedly reached this point, recognizing that the violence he participated in caused harm rather than honor. This moral awakening is common among militants, but it often leads to profound internal conflict, heightened by the inability to escape the group or seek help for their psychological pain.

The mental health crisis within militant organizations like the TTP is not only the result of ideological disillusionment but also the product of the severe conditions in which these groups operate. Many militants live in a state of constant fear, both from external forces and internal betrayals. The constant threat of being hunted down by fellow militants or security forces creates an environment ripe for paranoia, isolation, and depression. In this context, Kabir’s suicide, while tragic, was not unexpected but rather the logical outcome of his spiraling mental state.

Another factor contributing to the growing mental health issues within the TTP is the connection with Afghan-based terrorist groups. The harsh conditions of living in a war zone, compounded by a constant state of hiding and fear of death, exacerbate the psychological burden on militants. The sense of betrayal, compounded by the pressures of being constantly on edge, only deepens their emotional distress. The stigma of being labeled a traitor or spy, alongside the prospect of torture or execution, creates a psychological grip on militants, preventing many from leaving the group even as they struggle with their conscience.

The recognition of the mental health crisis within these groups has led to some governmental efforts to offer rehabilitation programs to militants who surrender. These initiatives focus on not only reintegrating militants into society but also addressing their psychological distress through counseling and support. However, the stigma surrounding mental health in extremist circles remains a major barrier to the success of these programs. Many militants, despite the government’s offer of help, hesitate to seek support due to fear of being labeled weak or traitorous by their peers.

The internal dynamics of militant organizations, particularly the constant infighting and pressure to maintain loyalty, play a significant role in the mental health crisis. Militants like Kabir, who find themselves trapped in a cycle of violence, betrayal, and moral conflict, often reach a breaking point. For some, the psychological strain is so severe that it results in suicidal thoughts or self-destructive behavior. The fear of death, isolation, and guilt over their actions often drive militants to despair, leading to tragic outcomes such as suicide.

The mental health crisis within the TTP and similar groups should not be dismissed as an isolated issue but rather as a systemic problem that needs urgent attention. Policymakers must begin to recognize the psychological struggles of militants and understand that many individuals who join these groups are already grappling with significant mental health issues. Poverty, ignorance, and the search for belonging make them vulnerable to recruitment, but the psychological damage caused by violent ideologies only compounds the mental health crisis.

A shift in the way militants are viewed by society and policymakers is essential. Rather than being regarded as enemies or ideologues, militants should be seen for what they truly are: individuals suffering from severe psychological distress. Governments should start to publicly label those who join such groups as mentally sick, highlighting the mental health aspects of their recruitment and involvement. This could serve to erode the support base for extremist groups and dissuade potential recruits by creating fear that joining such organizations will result in being stigmatized as mentally unstable by society.

The case of Abdul Kabir is a stark reminder that the psychological toll of extremism is profound and that mental health issues must be addressed if we are to break the cycle of violence. By understanding the root causes of these issues and implementing robust mental health support systems, we can begin to dismantle the ideologies that fuel these groups. Only through a comprehensive approach that addresses both the psychological struggles and the social conditions leading to extremism can we hope to reduce the number of individuals like Kabir, trapped in a cycle of violence, despair, and ultimately, death.

Note: Khalid Khan is an accomplished poet, journalist, author, and writer based in Peshawar, Pakistan. With decades of experience in media and literature, he is a prominent voice in highlighting socio-political challenges in the region. Through his thought-provoking analyses, he advocates for progressive reforms and pragmatic policymaking to ensure a better future for Pakistan.

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article/Opinion/Comment are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the DND Thought Center and Dispatch News Desk (DND). Assumptions made within the analysis are not reflective of the position of the DND Thought Center and Dispatch News Desk News.

Punjab Highway Patrol releases annual performance report for 2024

January 3, 2025

Lahore, Pakistan: Punjab Highway Patrol (PHP) has released its annual performance report for 2024 that shows promising working under the leadership of Inspector General of Police Punjab Dr Usman Anwar.

According to details, in the year 2024, PHP checked 31.4 million people on the highways across Punjab through the e-Police Post App and arrested 6,537 proclaimed offenders/judicial fugitives. Punjab Highway Patrol checked 18.8 million vehicles with the help of modern technology and also recovered 3,350 stolen vehicles/motorcycles. Legal action was taken against 869,000 overloaded vehicles for axle load violation. Legal action was taken against more than 12,000 vehicles across Punjab for illegal use of gas cylinders. Given the convenience of the citizens, last year, PHP issued 148,000 driving licenses – 678 missing children were reunited with their parents. 5,005 temporary and permanent encroachments were removed and traffic flow was improved.

More than 112,000 passengers facing difficulties on the roads across Punjab were provided with various types of assistance and guidance.

119,000 citizens were provided with various types of assistance and guidance at Police Khidmat Markazes. 1,093 cases were registered for the use of illegal weapons. 20,925 liters of alcohol, 400 kilograms of hashish, 53 kilograms of opium, and 5.5 kilograms of heroin were recovered from drug peddlers.

IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar congratulated PHP for its excellent performance – To ensure traffic flow, service, and safety of citizens, duties should be performed with full effort and sincerity – IG Punjab’s instructions

Time is slipping out for Imran Khan as Pakistan is not listening to Zionist Lobby

January 3, 2025

Islamabad, Pakistan: There is a saying that a cat comes out of the bag later or sooner and the sooner is better than later. This saying might be phrased for PTI whose solidarity with criminals is clear evidence of the party’s involvement in May 9 and its constant Save Our Soul (SOS) calls to US politicians for their immediate intervention to help their pawn out of jail.

These factors reiterated that the former prime minister and his followers were culprits of May 9 and that “Project Imran” was surely a project of the Zionist lobby as morally sued by several intelligent and visionary people of Pakistan in the past. The latest AI-generated video statement of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan begging for help from US and EU politicians is the latest SOS call from him.

PTI has been lobbying and getting support from Zionist lobbyists from all over the world including from Israel, the European Union, and the United States. There is no need to mention hundreds of such demands coming from them as a reference here because everybody knows about them. However, there is a need to mention here that the Zionist lobby looks helpless in front of the strong resolve of Pakistan not to let people who had been ruining the future of this country. The multipronged strategy of the West to bail Imran out is constantly mitigated by futuristic and visionary people sitting in the corridor of power who have decided to steer the country out of the turbulent and jumpy road where Imran Khan as prime minister moved it during his 42 months tenure. The concept of “absolutely unacceptable” is working civil and military leadership of Pakistan has taken a firm stand that the intervention of foreign powers in Pakistan’s domestic issues would be ignored but with a polite “no” to foreign powers.

Imran Khan Niazi’s anarchist narratives are proof that he is a perfect ‘hitman’ of foreign powers who was installed to play havoc with the future of the country, especially the lives of the youth. On the one hand, the state is working day and night for the country’s economic development, peace and order, and a better future for the youth, and on the other hand, anarchist Imran Khan is trying to destroy their future by using this youth. There are clear examples of this, such as the significant improvement in Pakistan’s economic stability last year. Economic indicators improved, inflation decreased and employment opportunities started increasing in the country.

If we look at it from the other side, PTI does not care about the country’s development, economic stability, and a better future for the youth. The main reason for this is the lust for power and Imran Khan is making every possible effort to stop the wheel of development by spreading unrest in the country. In this regard, he wants to use the people, especially the youth, to achieve his nefarious goals by creating economic and political instability.

A Playboy of the West, the father of children of House of Goldsmith, Imran Khan is in trouble now as the Pakistan government is not listening to the Zionist Lobby to release him.

By using anti-state narratives, negative propaganda, lies, and foreign lobbies, he first shaped the minds of the youth and aligned them against the state and state institutions and then used them to cause tragedies like May 9 and November 26, which are dark chapters in the history of Pakistan. And later, by declaring his disinterest in it, he put all the blame on the state institutions.

The state showed patience and forbearance in all these situations, proving its magnanimity by giving relief to criminals who were convicted on May 9 and whose confessions have also come to light, and by releasing criminals whose sentences were commuted to four to five months. This was a good move by the state and was a path of reform for the rest of the criminals as well, but once again the mischievous mentality of the founder of PTI did not accept it and found an element of evil, politics and defamation of state institutions in their release.

Videos circulating on social media in which statements attributed to some of the released criminals have come to light, which the party leadership has once again used by forcing them to make anti-state statements, proving that PTI only uses their workers for nefarious purposes and later becomes detached from them.

The most important question here is that these criminals involved on May 9, who were given relief by the state, went out and expressed solidarity with the founder of PTI and his party, rejecting the narrative of the founder of PTI today in which he had said that no worker of his party was involved on May 9. If no worker of his party was involved on May 9, then what does this party’s standing with the released criminals prove?

It is also worth considering here that the founder of PTI has tried to block the path of the remaining criminals who have filed pardon and mercy petitions by using some of the released criminals to make anti-state statements, which proves that this founder of PTI can harm anyone to fulfill its nefarious objectives, even if it is the youth, the future of Pakistan.

Gen Asim Munir: Forgiveness belongs to Nobleness

January 3, 2025

Islamabad, Pakistan: In human history, phrases such as forgiveness, pardon, and amnesty have been associated with higher levels of leadership.

The Quranic phrase ‘ma’a al-qudrah’ highlights that the noble-minded person forgives despite having the power or capability to take revenge. This highlights the strength of character and self-control required to be a leader. Simply put, trying to take revenge is natural but forgiveness is noble when one has one’s enemy in one’s power.

The Army Chief’s pardoning of these 19 convicts linked with the May 9 incidents is strong evidence that the Army Chief has the qualities of ‘rear of rears’ and is full of humanitarian sentiments and a very compassionate person. This decision has been made solely based on humanitarian sentiments, which proves the transparency and impartiality of military trials and the law. The remaining convicts also have the right to appeal and other legal rights as per the law and constitution. These individuals had nearly completed their two-year sentences, and their appeals were granted purely on compassionate grounds, proving that the military courts operate fairly and per the Constitution.

This move not only silences critics of military trials but also highlights the Army Chief’s balanced approach toward justice and mercy.

This decision also proves that the army is not taking any revenge against any individual in the May 9 case, but is providing all possible relief and convenience wherever possible, fulfilling the requirements of justice and law, and also keeping humanitarian sentiments in mind.

Contrary to PTI’s narrative, the military has shown no vengeful intent in dealing with the rioters. The swift decisions made—both in sentencing and in granting mercy—demonstrate the military’s adherence to justice, while also taking human compassion into account.

The Army Chief had made it clear that while the state offers relief to those who show genuine remorse, it will not tolerate acts of violence and chaos.

This decision also highlights that the military is offering every legal avenue, including mercy petitions, to convicts, further reinforcing the fairness of the process.

The approval of these mercy appeals is a testament to the Army Chief’s empathy & military’s commitment to justice, rejecting any baseless speculation that ties this process to political motives.

Military Courts in Pakistan: Facts Are Sacred

January 1, 2025

By Khalid Khan

In Pakistan, perhaps no political leader has been the subject of as many jokes and satirical remarks as the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). He has even earned the nickname “U-turn Khan,” which he once proudly described as a hallmark of any progressive political leader. However, the dictionary defines it as “going back on one’s word.” Regardless of the justification, every U-turn he has taken has ultimately led him into a dead end.

Not long ago, the founder could not stop extolling the virtues of Military Courts. His close aides, too, went to great lengths in their rhetorical support, praising the importance, effectiveness, and unique necessity of such courts. Ironically, many critics frequently upload old video clips on social media to remind the public of these past endorsements, turning them into evidence for future reference.

Yesterday’s “halal” military courts are now considered forbidden by the founder and his fugitive allies. How swiftly the tides turn!

Speaking of the broader picture, Pakistan’s armed forces, while leading all other security institutions, are presently fighting multiple battles to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty, paying a heavy price with their lives. External enemies have never been a match for Pakistan’s military strength. However, what hurts the most is when internal elements, acting on foreign agendas, auction off national integrity, survival, and unity in broad daylight.

Since its inception, Pakistan’s existence has been thorn in the eyes of both internal and external adversaries. While Hindus vehemently opposed its creation, some of Pakistan’s own misinformed elements danced to India’s tunes. It wasn’t just outsiders—neighboring Muslim brother Afghanistan also refused to recognize Pakistan initially.

Even before I was born, and immediately after my birth, my very existence was denied without reason or justification. For 75 years, attempts have been made to erase me. After each slap, I offered flowers, but my humanity was mistaken for weakness. Enough is enough.

As a Pakistani, I can no longer tolerate such indulgence. From now on, I will respond to every brick with a stone. The lions will roar in response to jackals’ howls. External enemies will be hunted down in their own homes, while their internal collaborators will be politically paralyzed and dragged to military courts by their necks.

Why? Because no one here has ever prioritized national interests. Everyone has remained self-serving. Yesterday, military courts were constitutional when they served personal interests, but today, they are labeled as cruel and inhumane simply because they stand as a barrier against malicious designs. What hypocrisy!

In Pakistan’s 75-year history, no one has ever prioritized judicial reforms. Today, the judicial system is used more as a threat than a means of justice. Common phrases such as “I’ll see you in court” and “I’ll drag you to court” reflect this reality. From the registration of FIRs to investigations and from endless delays to the dismal conviction rates, the system speaks for itself. Now, ask yourself—can Pakistani courts ensure fair, transparent, and timely trials for terrorists? Absolutely not.

National security, survival, and stability are the legal, moral, and human grounds that justify the establishment of military courts worldwide. Special circumstances always call for special measures.

While internal critics oppose military courts, the European Union (EU) has also expressed concerns over Pakistan, sentencing 25 civilians through these courts recently. The EU claims that trying civilians in military courts violates international conventions on civil and human rights, to which Pakistan is a signatory.

According to the EU, Article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) guarantees every citizen the right to a fair trial in an independent and impartial court. It also mandates public hearings, proper defense, and transparent rulings.

Similarly, the British Foreign Office released a statement criticizing the use of military courts to prosecute civilians involved in the May 9 incidents. While acknowledging Pakistan’s sovereignty in legal matters, it warned that such trials lack transparency and infringe on fundamental rights to justice.

The statement urged Pakistan’s government to fulfill its obligations under the ICCPR and uphold international standards.

Meanwhile, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) clarified that the suspects involved in attacks on key military installations—including the Corps Commander House in Lahore, PAF Base in Mianwali, Punjab Regiment Center in Mardan, Bannu Cantonment, Chakdara Fort, Multan Cantonment Check Post, GHQ, and ISPR Office in Faisalabad—were sentenced only after thorough investigations and legal proceedings.

The ISPR emphasized that all legal requirements were fulfilled, ensuring the accused were granted full legal rights. Justice, it added, will only be complete when the masterminds and planners behind the May 9 incidents are brought to justice under the constitution and law.

Military courts were also established after the 2014 terrorist attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar, which claimed the lives of 152 children, as well as the school principal and a teacher.

In response to this tragedy, the National Action Plan was launched, and Pakistan’s National Assembly legislated the creation of these courts on January 21, 2015, to ensure swift justice. Initially, these courts were formed for two years but were later extended through various amendments.

The then-spokesman for Pakistan’s military, Major General Asif Ghafoor, stated that 717 cases were presented in these courts. Of these, 345 criminals were sentenced to death, 56 of whom were executed, while the remaining cases were delayed due to appeals in the Supreme Court.

It is worth noting that the establishment of military courts and commissions for the swift dispensation of justice is not unique to Pakistan. Several countries, including the United States, have adopted similar measures to counter-terrorism.

According to researcher Shabbir Durrani, the first military courts in the U.S. were established during the American Revolution by General George Washington, who sentenced a British Major, John André, to death for espionage.

During the U.S. Civil War (1861–1865), Native Americans fighting against the state were also executed through military courts.

After the 1898 Spanish-American War, the U.S. set up a military commission in the Philippines.

During World War II, President Franklin Roosevelt established military courts to execute eight German spies under “Operation Pastorius.” Six were executed in electric chairs, while two were later released.

The infamous Guantanamo Bay prison, operating under the Military Commissions Act, has also faced severe criticism from international human rights organizations.

Similarly, Egypt established military courts after its revolution, retaining controversial provisions for civilian trials without amendments. Egypt’s new constitutional drafting committee, comprising 50 members, approved these provisions with 41 votes in favor. These courts have since issued rulings against hundreds of extremists.

In India, the 2007 Armed Forces Tribunal Act led to the formation of military courts inaugurated on August 8, 2009, by the then-President. Regional branches were set up in cities like Chandigarh, Lucknow, Kolkata, Guwahati, Chennai, Kochi, Mumbai, and Jaipur, transferring over 9,000 cases from high courts.

Despite criticism from politicians and human rights groups, military courts remain a necessary evil in times of national crises.

While military courts may not be ideal, they become unavoidable when nations face internal and external threats, economic instability, political turmoil, and administrative failures.

When national institutions face conspiracies, judicial systems lack credibility, and the country is effectively at war, military courts become indispensable.

In exceptional circumstances, extraordinary measures are like oxygen for a nation’s survival, and we cannot allow anyone to stifle our breath.

Disclaimer:

87 Days Under Siege: Parachinar is a glaring example of sectarian tensions and government neglect

January 1, 2025

By Khalid Khan

Peshawar, Pakistan: The siege of Parachinar has entered its 87th day, plunging the region into a humanitarian crisis as severe shortages of food and medicine persist. The ongoing blockade has left the local population—comprising both Sunni and Shia communities—struggling for survival. Reports confirm that 113 children have tragically lost their lives due to a lack of medical supplies, underscoring the urgency of immediate intervention.

While both sects faced hardships, tensions were initially escalated by the Shia community, which waged a conflict over disputed land demarcation. The issue, primarily territorial, has since been framed as a sectarian divide, further inflaming disunity across the country. Protesters argue that the Shia groups are attempting to portray the conflict as a Sunni-Shia struggle nationwide, risking broader unrest. Meanwhile, the Sunni community has largely remained silent, reflecting the complexity of the situation.

Protests against the blockade continue across Pakistan, with a major sit-in at the Peshawar Press Club entering its second day. Demonstrators, including people from diverse backgrounds and schools of thought, have voiced solidarity with the besieged tribes of Kurram District.

Despite the Pakistan Army’s ongoing counterterrorism efforts and sacrifices to stabilize the region, both the central and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) governments have been criticized for failing to address the crisis. The KP administration, in particular, has faced sharp criticism for its lack of action, leaving residents vulnerable to militant threats and worsening humanitarian conditions.

Protesters have demanded the immediate restoration of safety along the Thall-Parachinar Road—an essential supply route—as well as concrete measures to resolve the territorial dispute fueling the unrest. They have called on political leaders, parliamentarians, and human rights organizations to rise above sectarian narratives and focus on securing peace and stability.

Is it not a senseless, shameless and inhuman act of CM Gandapur to lead protest leaving 80 dead bodies in clashes of Kurram district? — Is it not a sheer shameless act of Gandapur to lead a protest leaving 80 dead bodies in clashes in Kurram district?

Observers argue that the Pakistan Army has been burdened with fighting battles on multiple fronts, from counterterrorism to disaster response, while civilian authorities have abdicated their responsibilities. Protesters emphasized that the KP government’s inaction has not only worsened the crisis but also undermined national unity at a time when collective efforts are needed to maintain peace.

Protesters vowed to continue their sit-ins until the blockade is lifted, humanitarian aid reaches Parachinar, and long-term solutions for security and peace are established. They stressed that the crisis must be treated as a governance failure rather than a sectarian conflict to avoid further divisions and instability in the country.

Value of hope and optimism

January 1, 2025

By Dr Attia Anwar

“A rainbow is a prism that sends shards of multi-colored light in various directions. It lifts our spirits and makes us think of what is possible. Hope is the same personal rainbow of mind” –Charles Snyder renowned psychologist.

I want to start New Year with a bit of optimism. Hope is a feeling that keeps you going in mid of extreme hardship. Hope is the interaction between your wishes and expectations.it is having a positive expectation about particularly favorable consequences. It motivates the person to overcome hard situations in life. If we can be hopeful or give hope to others we can survive every setback which comes in our life. Optimism is a mental attitude in which we have confidence that the future will be better. Hardships are learning experiences and they will go. Tomorrow will be probably better. By optimism, we feel that we will succeed in the challenges of life and expect things will work out in our favor.

How optimistic you are is determined by many factors. Genetics determines 25% of your optimism level. Environmental variables that are out of your control like socioeconomic status and upbringing also play a role. But this does not mean you cannot work on your attitude. You can work on it and can change it. You can cultivate optimism by being mindful, practicing gratitude, and writing down your positive emotions. You can do the cognitive restructuring by consciously challenging the negative thoughts, or self-limiting thinking and replacing it with more positive thoughts. If you start practicing optimism negative events are most likely to roll off your back and positive events will affirm your belief in yourself.

Why we are giving importance to hope and optimism, is because it has a positive impact on your physical and mental health. Research has proven that people who have this attitude have certain advantages over others like better health, less stress, and greater longevity. There is a plethora of research that shows that optimism contributes positively to health and well-being. It is believed to result in better health by lowering the level of experienced stress. Studies have shown that optimistic people have fifty percent less risk of cardiovascular disease as compared to pessimistic people. It is their thought process that makes the stressful situation manageable, so their level of stress is low. These low-stress levels have health benefits. This lower level of stress keeps them maintaining health-promoting behavior rather than seeking health-compromising behavior. They have a greater survival rate when having serious diseases like cancers. It is also linked to a lesser rate of having infectious disease, and good health and longevity. It not only affects your health and well-being. It has a clear correlation with your performance as shown by different studies, so whether you are a sportsperson or businessman you will achieve more if you have an optimistic attitude. The performance of pessimists is lower in comparison. One reason why you achieve success by being hopeful and believing in yourself is that you do not give up easily. This mindset promotes persistence, so you take obstacles as a learning opportunity, change your strategy, and achieve your goal. There is the effect of expectation on task performance as proved by different research studies, so people who expect good generally perform well whether it is academic performance or some work-related task. It is a favorable personality dimension and influences motivation and adjustment.

Research has also shown that changing your attitude towards hope and optimism is also good for your psychological health. So reframing a person’s thought process is more effective than an antidepressant in the case of depression. And it is not a short-term solution. Rather it has long-lasting impacts on handling future setbacks and failures. Hopeful people live longer with better health. Optimists also experience less stress as compared to realists. Because they always think that good things are on their way. That helps to cope with failures and setbacks. As nothing is permanent they are not paralyzed by the things which don’t go in desirable way. They keep working and ultimately accomplish what they want to accomplish. Believing in themselves keeps them active and moving. They are ready to take risks. It contributes to enhanced psychological well-being. Research shows that people with optimism use problem-focused adaptive responses in case of stressful events.

Hope is a personal experience and difficult to define in exact terms. But its positive impact on life is widely recognized. It strengthens our resolve and keeps us going in the darkest hour of life. It guides us in desperate circumstances. We remain committed to our goals and take action with the help of hope. It gives us the belief that current circumstances how bad they are will improve despite the unpredicted nature of life. Hope does not fade in the face of adversity. Hope endures in difficult situations like poverty, war, and famine. It helps us go through the most challenging circumstances. Realistic hope allows individual to observe and understand their situation, while still maintaining the openness toward that positive change is possible. Hope also helps us to live not only with difficult present situations but also with an uncertain future. Individuals who are hopeful generally achieve their goals better and experience a state of well-being.

While optimism is a great thing and it has many advantages. As balance is very important for everything, so is true for being an optimist. While practicing optimism we have to keep three things in mind. People can have an optimism bias for themselves that nothing bad is going to happen to them. So they can engage in risky behavior and then experience a bad outcome. Another thing that can happen is poor risk assessment. You have to take calculated risks to be successful but ignoring potential risks can lead to excessive risk-taking behavior. Then there is toxic positivity in which you ignore your genuine negative emotions and refuse to feel them, which will lead to poor mental health. Optimists can avoid these pitfalls by not focusing on staying positive all the time, rather they should maintain a healthy realistic approach toward positivity.

The author Dr. Attia Anwar is a consultant family physician with a postgraduate degree from the Royal College of GP UK. She is a strong advocate of health and well-being and wants patient participation in decision-making regarding health.

Gen Asim Munir—The Man of the Year 2024

January 1, 2025

DND Report

The year 2024 started in Pakistan with General Elections on February 8, therefore, one can say that this was the year of a journey from political instability to political steadiness and it could not be possible without the strong support of law enforcement agencies and the man leading the security of the country confirmed that he had not only managed security of the country rather played a pivotal role for the economic as well as diplomatic stabilization of Pakistan. Of course, this man is COAS Gen Asim Munir who is undoubtedly the “Man of the Year 2024”.

The review of the year 2024 shows that COAS Gen Asim Munir sailed the boat of the country from turbulent waters as the country was almost on the verge of financial collapse, international isolation, and political instability.

The year 2024 started with six terrorist attacks that rocked the country with fears of a possible bloody election campaigning as Pakistan was under the threat of increasing terrorism that was the result of the resettlement of TTP terrorists (officially known as Fitna al-Khawarij) in Pakistan from Afghanistan by the government of PTI.

October 1, 2021, while giving an interview to TRT, the then prime minister Imran Khan Niazi explained his plan to settle Fitna al-Khawarij in Pakistan, saying that he is (was) against operations against terrorists and wants (wanted) a solution through talks. On January 10, 2023, Imran Khan Niazi admitted to Newsline in an interview that according to his vision, money should be invested in the settlement of thirty to forty thousand Taliban (Fitna al-Khawarij) including seven to eight thousand fighter terrorists. Khan also believed that just as the Americans opened an office of the Afghan Taliban in Qatar, a ceasefire should be established with the TTP through dialogue and talks should be held and the TTP could open an office in Pakistan to join mainstream politics. The resettlement of terrorists in Pakistan by PTI played havoc since then and the major challenge Pakistan had to face was to mitigate terrorism in the year 2024 and hold bloodless general elections because TTP announced that it would execute terrorist actions during the election campaign. A befitting and multipronged strategy adopted by the Pakistan Army defeated TTP’s design and general elections were held peacefully.

The next important target was to pull Pakistan out of the economic meltdown that was linked with “economic terrorism” launched against Pakistan from Afghan soil and here also Pakistan Army played a pivotal role. The US Dollar was flying high due to the heavy smuggling of foreign currency to Afghanistan. Edibles market/production was also hit by smuggling as wheat, rice, sugar, cooking oil and meat had been smuggled to Afghanistan. A massive crackdown on illicit economic activity was launched, targeting to fix all loopholes being used for smuggling at the Pak-Iran as well as Pak-Afghan border. One of the sources of racking Pakistan’s economy is the Afghan Transit Trade (ATA). When things were viewed from a broader perspective, it was understood that this is the only smuggling for financial benefits rather it was a well-designed economic terrorism launched against Pakistan from Afghan soil. Financial Terrorism (also known as Economic Terrorism) is a secret manipulation of a nation’s economy by state or non-state actors. Terroristic attacks against ports and land borders (attacks in and around Gwadar Port, and Karachi Port,) cause extra measures to be implemented to ensure the safe arrival and departure of the products and these measures force the cost of exporting and importing goods to increase. Pakistan is the most affected by this kind of terrorism because the slowing of exports and imports has affected the country’s economy.

Detailed research exposed that Pakistan is facing a “Twin Crisis” because it has been going through the dangerous convergence of a collapsing economy and economic terrorism since 2021.

Contrary to “economic warfare” which is undertaken by states against other states, “economic terrorism” is undertaken by transnational or non-state actors that includes coordinated, and sophisticated or massive destabilizing actions in order to disrupt the economic and financial stability of a state, a society for ideological or religious motives.

Due to economic Terrorism coming from Afghanistan, Pakistan was losing Human and Nonhuman Capital, facing increased costs of security, adverse impact on supply chains, smuggling that was causing currency bleeding, pressure on food security, and attacks and harassment of local/foreign investors (reference attacks on Chinese experts and ransom threats to industrialists, businessmen, and traders in Pakistan).

The third major threat Pakistan was facing at the beginning of year 2024 was political instability and this threat is yet to manage. However, the Court Martial of Faiz Hameed broke a nexus of evil, and PTI which had been a beneficiary of conspiracies hatched and executed by Faiz Hameed became an orphan and lost its engross in public. There is no iota of doubt left that the ruling parties practically failed to bust the false narrative of PTI against the state even after spending billions of rupees in media and on hiring media experts, the impact of Faiz Hameed’s arrest had a far-reaching impact on crackdown PTI’s web of evil designs. The decision to try a Lt General who had been a spymaster of the country was critical and sensitive but the COAS Gen Asim Munir who believes in strike accountability took the decision and the trial of Faiz Hameed provided horrible information that how this man had been working against the country for his personal benefits.

At the military-diplomatic front, the Army Chief, Pakistan crossed important milestones relations with important countries improved and foreign investment increased. Pakistan emerged as an effective voice in the international community for the oppressed people of Gaza, Lebanon, and Kashmir. A significant diplomatic success was also achieved in 2024 and Pakistan hosted the important SCO conference. This huge event was impossible without the flawless security arrangements that were the responsibility of the Pakistan Army. The conference was attended by the Prime Ministers of China, Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, the Vice President of Iran, and the Foreign Minister of India, among other high-ranking officials. In addition, the heads of several important countries also visited Pakistan this year and signed several agreements.

On the economic front, his vision of challenges, the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) had proven a success and achieved reasonable realization of a vision, and trade relations with several international countries were strengthened. The measures taken under SIFC have shown clear prospects for improvement in the economy. With the support of SIFC, remittances increased inflation decreased and the stock exchange reached a historic high. A clear reduction in interest rates and the narrative of those who sang the tune of default were refuted.

At the connectivity and communication field, the National Logistics Cell (NLC) which is managed by the Pakistan Army crossed important milestones to promote trade activities in the region and increase trade with important countries. The NLC paved the way for the promotion of trade not only with Central Asian states but also with Russia, Eastern Europe, China, and the United Arab Emirates.

The Army Chief is clear that freedom of expression without rules and regulations is leading to the decline of moral values in all societies. Legislation was also enacted this year to prevent the spread of misleading propaganda, fake news, and misinformation. All the functions of the government and military leadership efforts and achievements are the promise of a bright future for Pakistan. With the best strategy and efforts of the government and military leadership, the year 2025 will be a year of peace and stability.

There is a saying that individuals make and break nations and the qualities of those who make the nations comprise that they put their country ahead of their own interests or interests of their group; have a robust charter, explicit or implicit; want to create national core values (VABEs); negotiate, invite, and offer rather than force or coerce and they regulate and control those who would abuse the system and of course they do not tolerate crime and corruption. All these values can be found in COAS Gen Asim Munir and he is doing what is actually beyond the call of his duty because he believes in nationhood rather than merely his institution and he in his several speeches demands that every individual of the country the best for the country instead of thinking that ‘this is not my duty’.

Nigah Buland, Sukhan Dil Nawaz, Jaan Pursouz

High ambition, winsome speech, a passionate soul

Yehi Hai Rakht-e-Safar Mir-e-Karwan Ke Liye

This is all the luggage for the leader of the Caravan.

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