DG ISPR Press Conference: 10 Key Points on Pakistan's Counterterrorism Campaign

RAWALPINDI - Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry delivered a comprehensive press briefing on July 31, 2026, outlining Pakistan's counterterrorism strategy, operational achievements, and the way forward. Here are the 10 key points from his address:

1. No More Concessions or Negotiations with Terrorists

"Only two options: surrender under the Constitution and law, or face military operations."

The DG ISPR made it unequivocally clear that the era of appeasement is over. Terrorists and their sponsors must understand there is no scope for negotiations anymore. Submit to the law of the State, or face the full force of Pakistan's security forces.

2. 40,348 Intelligence-Based Operations Conducted

Pakistan's security forces have maintained a relentless tempo across the country, conducting over 40,348 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) in 2026 so far-averaging more than 194 operations every day.

3. 2,084 Terrorists Eliminated

Security forces have eliminated 2,084 terrorists in 2026, averaging 10 militants killed daily. This figure is already approaching last year's full total of 2,597.

4. 819 Pakistanis Martyred

The fight against terrorism has come at a significant cost:

5. 3,145 Terrorist Incidents Nationwide

Over 99% of terrorist incidents have been contained strictly within two provinces:

6. Afghan Nationals Behind Suicide Attacks

The DG ISPR revealed that most of the 28 suicide bombers this year were Afghan nationals. Afghan militants were also involved in recent attacks in Tank and Karachi, confirming Pakistan's longstanding position that terrorist networks are operating from Afghan soil under the protection of the Afghan Taliban regime.

7. Balochistan is Not 'Slipping Away'

The perception that Balochistan is slipping away is deliberately manufactured. The high number of encounters reflects intensified pressure on terrorists, not loss of control. Pakistan's security forces are actively degrading terrorist networks, not retreating.

8. Tribal Elites and Sardars Are the Problem

The DG ISPR identified tribal elites and sardars-some linked to terrorism, smuggling, and treating Levies as personal militias-as a primary driver of instability. The people of Balochistan are the true stakeholders, not these elites.

9. Massive Development Underway

Balochistan is undergoing unprecedented development:

10. Good Governance is Essential for Long-Term Stability

"Pakistan is not yet a 'hard state' (equal law for all, no elitism). Citizens must fulfil constitutional duties alongside demanding rights."

The DG ISPR emphasized that good governance is essential for long-term security and stability. Pakistan must move toward a system where the law applies equally to all citizens, regardless of status or wealth.

Pakistan's Resolve

The DG ISPR's message was clear: Pakistan's security forces will continue operations against Indian-sponsored terrorist networks and their facilitators until every terrorist is eliminated. The state remains committed to protecting its citizens and ensuring the rule of law across the country.