The US backs Pakistan’s counterterrorism initiatives.

Reiterating Washington’s position, State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stressed the value of upholding human rights and advancing the rule of law in counterterrorism efforts during a press briefing.

Miller remarked, “We support Pakistan’s efforts to combat terrorism and ensure the safety and security of its citizens in a manner that promotes the rule of law and security of human rights.”

He noted strong counterterrorism capacity-building initiatives and continuous military operations between the US and Pakistan in the security domain.

Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister of Pakistan, stressed that intelligence-based operations will take precedence over extensive combat engagements in order to preserve stability in the face of an upsurge in terror attacks. Recognizing their mutual interest in regional security, the US appreciated the seriousness of Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.

Zestehkam Operation
Operation “Azm-e-Istehkam,” which represents the nation’s determination to drive out extremism and terrorism, was approved by the Pakistani government on Saturday. This move signifies a renewed and reenergized national counterterrorism campaign that has the support of all relevant parties.

Presided over by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Central Apex Committee on the National Action Plan (NAP) met and decided to commence “Operation Azm-e-Istehkam” with the support of all parties involved, including the provinces of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

An announcement from the PM Office Media Wing stated that “Azm-e-Istehkam will integrate and synergize multiple lines of effort to combat the menaces of extremism and terrorism in a comprehensive and decisive manner.”