In a chilling display of brutality and an utter disregard for human life, terrorists launched a series of attacks on the sacred day of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAWW).
These horrifying incidents unfolding in Balochistan’s Mastung district and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu, left the nation in a state of mourning and shock. The victims were innocent Muslims who had gathered to celebrate the birthday of the beloved Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) These acts were not only tragic but also underscored the crucial nature of Pakistan’s decision to deport illegal immigrants, including Afghan nationals, in the interest of national security and stability.
Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAWW) is a day of immense significance for Muslims, marked by expressions of love, unity, and profound respect for the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). It is a day meant to promote love and peace among individuals and communities. However, on this sacred occasion, khawariji terrorists, driven by their malicious agenda, chose to turn a day of joy and pride into one of sorrow and despair. These attackers not only displayed an utter disregard for human life but also tarnished the image of Islam, a religion that fundamentally preaches peace, tolerance, and compassion.
The motives behind these attacks appear to be multifaceted. By targeting the peaceful and moderate school of thought, particularly the Barelvis, these terrorists aimed to incite sectarian violence and cultivate divisions. Such acts also aimed to infuse a religious and sectarian dimension into the ongoing violence in Balochistan.
These khawariji terrorists, backed by external forces, sought to undermine the security environment of Balochistan, a strategically significant province. This is part of a broader strategy to erode Chinese trust and confidence in Balochistan’s security environment. These khawariji terrorists’ actions can only be described as “Fisad Fil Ard” – a manifestation of chaos and disorder. They are a black spot upon humanity. It is crucial to emphasize that these actions do not represent the true essence of the Islamic faith. Indeed, no genuine Muslim can ever think or imagine of attacking a mosque, a religious gathering, or choosing a sacred day for perpetrating violence.
In these challenging times, it is essential for us to unite, setting aside our differences and divisions. We must adopt a whole-of-nation approach to bring these terrorists to justice. The acts of violence that transpired on Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAWW) must be thoroughly investigated, and those responsible must be apprehended and subjected to exemplary punishment. It is through that we can honor the memory of those who lost their lives on Eid Milad-un-Nabi (SAWW), and safeguard the principles of peace and tolerance that Islam holds dear.
We understand that the decision to deport illegal immigrants is a step in the right direction to improve the law and order situation and check the terror acts. Since January 2023, Pakistan has experienced twenty four suicide attacks within its borders, with evidence pointing to the involvement of Afghan nationals in some of these heinous acts. The fact that six attackers in an attack on a check-post in Qila Saifullah and three attackers on Zhob Cantt were Afghan nationals is deeply troubling.
Such incidents raise legitimate concerns about the security risks posed by a significant number of undocumented Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan. It is essential for Kabul to recognize that Pakistan’s decision to deport undocumented Afghan nationals stems from valid concerns about national security and the need to protect its citizens. Pakistan has long been a generous host to Afghan refugees, but the burden of hosting millions of undocumented individuals has taken a heavy toll including on its security. The decision to deport illegal immigrants is not an isolated one but rather a prudent measure taken to safeguard the well-being and security of Pakistan and its citizens.
We have no doubt on the capability and ability of our security forces to deal with the menace of terrorism. With better coordination amongst intelligence agencies, there is a need to crush the terrorist elements with full force, and if there is any foreign hand behind them, that also needs to be exposed before the world community.
