Pakistan, Oct. 14 — The date of October 11, 2025, became a significant turning point in Pakistan’s extended effort to safeguard its frontiers and ensure the safety of its people. On that day, Pakistan’s military operations targeted and eliminated terrorist bases along the Durand Line, destroying arms stockpiles and regaining disputed forward positions. This operation signified a clear move from passive acceptance to a proactive approach against those who orchestrate and carry out attacks from Afghan territory. For a country that has endured the consequences of cross-border extremism for many years, this step was both necessary and long-awaited.
For more than four decades, Pakistan has remained Afghanistan’s most reliable ally during periods of turmoil. When the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in 1979, it was Pakistan that offered refuge to millions of Afghan refugees, providing them with sustenance, land, and security, enabling them to reconstruct their lives within its territory. When the U.S.-led war on terror commenced, Pakistan once again served as the frontline state, confronting the spread of extremism and enduring significant human and financial costs. Even amid the unstable administrations of Hamid Karzai and the recently overthrown puppet government in Kabul, Pakistan persisted in promoting peace, stability, and collaboration. We extended Afghans access to our markets, educational institutions, and enterprises, yet what did we gain in return? More bloodshed, more casualties, and a continuous flow of terrorism funded and backed by those now engaging in a lap dance with India out of their animosity toward Pakistan.
For more than four decades, Pakistan has remained Afghanistan’s most reliable ally during periods of turmoil.
The contradiction is evident. Afghan leaders have consistently claimed to be brothers while seeking support from foreign powers for money and short-term security. Whether masked by religion or political beliefs, their loyalty has always been available to the one who offers the most. This deceit has resulted in thousands of innocent lives lost in Pakistan. Every time Islamabad reached out, it faced sabotage, assaults, and treachery. The patience that once guided Pakistan’s approach over many years has now come to an end.
For many years, extremist organizations have taken advantage of open borders, fragile Afghan leadership, and global criminal groups to regroup, rearm, and carry out attacks on Pakistani towns, educational institutions, and military columns. Pakistan has suffered greatly in terms of lives lost and resources spent while those responsible remained secure just across the border. The latest operations are not driven by mere aggression; they are a defensive measure aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure before it causes further loss of innocent lives or threatens Pakistan’s internal security.
Pakistan approaches this new stage of the conflict with increased self-assurance and established competence. The country’s military and political determination was put to the test during the 2025 clash with India. This short but fierce encounter highlighted the expertise, flexibility, and bravery of Pakistan’s Armed Forces. The global community witnessed Pakistani air force successfully down six Indian Rafale fighters, a success that showcased both expertise and technological equivalence. Faced with a significantly bigger opponent, Pakistan safeguarded its independence, protected its citizens, and maintained its honor. The lessons from Operation Bunyan Um Marsoos are evident: unified command, clear objectives, and prompt action can change the trajectory of history.
Currently, the threat coming from the west calls for the same level of determination. The refuge that extremists have discovered in Afghanistan is more than just a tactical concern; it represents a strategic risk. It weakens security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, takes away resources meant for development, and keeps a cycle of unrest going. Military actions that eliminate leadership hubs and arms stockpiles are essential, but achieving long-term peace needs a wider strategy that includes both force and diplomacy along with economic pressure.
Pakistan’s actions are not aimed at the Afghan people, who have already endured prolonged conflicts. Our issue lies with those utilizing Afghan territory to plan violence and with those providing them refuge. It is reasonable to anticipate mutual respect from Kabul, adherence to borders, collaboration in fighting terrorism, and an end to anti-Pakistan propaganda.
To convert recent tactical wins into long-term stability, Pakistan needs to implement strong and specific actions. Afghan individuals engaged in commerce within Pakistan should be taxed more heavily and face tighter trade controls. This approach would introduce economic deterrents for those exploiting the situation, while safeguarding genuine traders via humanitarian exceptions.
Pakistan should also focus on the financial foundation of adversarial networks. Strengthening customs enforcement to disrupt smuggling channels, freezing assets of recognized enablers, and applying sanctions to supporting organizations will render the acceptance of terrorism a costly decision.
The National Resistance Front (NRF) needs political backing to strengthen Afghan perspectives that oppose radicalism. This is not an invitation for a proxy conflict, but a plan to promote stability inside Afghanistan by supporting credible figures who stand against militant groups.
In terms of diplomacy, China and other regional powers ought to be encouraged to hold back or limit their investments in Afghanistan until there is clear advancement in combating terrorist strongholds. Economic influence serves as a strong tool; when connected to security collaboration, it pushes even hesitant governments to rethink their approaches.
In conclusion, targeted operations driven by intelligence should persist in striking weapon storage facilities and transportation centers that support cross-border conflicts. Every mission must adhere to the law, maintain focus, and ensure the safety of non-combatants.
These decisions are not simple. They require political bravery and a shared sense of direction. However, failing to act is no longer a viable choice. The consequences of inaction are much more severe than the cost of taking firm steps. October 11, 2025 will be recalled not only for the attacks that occurred but for whether Pakistan turned them into the basis of a long-term security strategy.
If Pakistan maintains discipline, unity, and focuses on the nation’s interests, it has the potential to eliminate the terrorist groups that endanger its borders and achieve a peaceful future. The bravery demonstrated by our military should now be complemented by strong political determination and clear diplomacy. The message from October 11 is clear: Pakistan will protect itself, in a smart, decisive manner, and according to its own conditions.






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