Washington/Islamabad
Pakistan has asked the US to provide small arms and modern equipment for Operation Azm-i-Istehkam, a new counter-terrorism initiative. This request was made by Pakistan’s ambassador to the US. The operation was approved on June 22 at a National Action Plan meeting.
Operation Azm-i-Istehkam aims to dismantle terrorist networks. For this, sophisticated small arms and communication equipment are needed. Ambassador Masood Khan spoke about this at a Washington think tank, the Wilson Centre.
The operation includes three components: doctrinal, societal, and operational. Work has begun on the first two, and the third phase will start soon. The decision for this operation was made due to a new threat from Tehreek-i-Taliban militants, who are based in Afghanistan.
Khan stressed the importance of strong security links between Pakistan and the US. He called for enhanced intelligence cooperation, resumption of military sales, and maintenance of US-origin defense equipment. This is seen as crucial for regional security and countering terrorism, which also threatens US interests.
High-level defense talks, frequent meetings, and joint military exercises like Inspired Union-2024, Falcon Talon, and Red Flag were mentioned as examples of cooperation. Khan suggested that the US should see Pakistan as a partner in diplomatic efforts in Kabul and in counterterrorism.
The US State Department expressed support for Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts and highlighted the need for actions that promote rule of law and protect human rights.
