Securing Pakistan’s Frontiers: Strategic Counterterrorism From Balochistan To Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – OpEd
Pakistan, a South Asian emerging state, occupies a pivotal geostrategic position, sharing borders with India and Afghanistan. In 2025, the country faced complex security challenges on both fronts. Clashes with India were brief and amicably resolved through United States mediation under President Trump. However, the western border with Afghanistan remained volatile, as Afghan-supported terrorist activities, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, posed severe threats to national security and regional stability.
These threats had not only domestic implications but also broader regional consequences, undermining cross-border trade, refugee management, and Pakistan’s broader strategic posture.
Decisive Counterterrorism Operations
December 2025 marked a turning point. The security forces of Pakistan executed very successful operations in DI Khan, Lakki Marwat, Khyber, Swat, Bajaur, Kurram, Bannu, Tang, Hangu, and South and North Waziristan. These synchronized operations eliminated terrorist groups, regained control of areas that were at risk, and disrupted extremist supply lines.
Consequently, 82 Kharijites were killed, and 97 weapons were confiscated. The operations revealed the unyielding professionalism and effectiveness of Pakistan’s security forces. Their quick movements did not allow extremists to have even the slightest area for their activities and thus transmitted a loud and clear message: no terrorism is going to be accepted, and every effort of region's destabilization will be faced with a strong and immediate reaction.
The Security Forces (SF) remain vigilant against all threats, ensuring that destructive plans are crushed before they can harm civilians, reaffirming their role as the nation’s protector.
Cross-Border Tensions with Afghanistan
The Pakistani authorities highlighted that the terrorist organizations, including Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) have sanctuaries in Afghanistan and Afghan Taliban are providing them assistance to freely operate from their territory and use it as a base for their operations. While acknowledging Afghanistan’s challenges in controlling its rugged border, Islamabad expressed its willingness to work together in finding ways to stop cross-border terror from spoiling the already delicate relationship between the two countries.
In the aftermath of a suicide bombing that killed seven soldiers and was attributed to the TTP, Pakistan's military took action against the perpetrators through precise operations. The operations led to Afghan forces firing mortars in response, which resulted in injury among both civilians and army personnel. The whole incident is referred to by analysts as a "cousins at war" scenario, underscoring the complexity of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, which are interdependent and strained at the same time.
In the past, Pakistan used its influence over the Afghan Taliban to keep under control the terrorist groups like the TTP. However, the attacks continued to occur, mostly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, leading to many deaths and making it necessary to adopt a comprehensive multi-faceted method.
NPVE Policy: A Holistic Approach to Extremism
Pakistan in 2025 2025, announced the 'National Policy of Countering Violent Extremism,' embracing the 'whole of society' approach. The policy adopts a five-pronged strategy-Revisit, Reach Out, Reduce, Reinforce, and Reintegrate-addressing educational changes, community relations through the media, participation of the youth, cultural activities, and rehabilitation Experts contend that addressing the ideological roots of terrorism is as important as conducting kinetic operations. The NPVE plans to eliminate radicalization, promote acceptance, and strengthen communities, thereby providing a durable support to military actions which is lasting and unstoppable.
Azm-e-Istehkam: Military Campaign for Stability
In addition to the policy measures, Pakistan started the Azm-e-Istehkam ("Resolve for Stability") campaign in June 2025. Through collaborative operations, they were able to regain land, eradicate extremist groups, and seize armaments and explosive materials. The campaign not only assured security across the nation but also revealed the high level of skills, commitment, and the tough times faced by Pakistan’s security forces.
Chairman Sente Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani commended the operations as a reason for the nation to be proud, pointing out that the armed forces' sacrifices act as a light showing the way to unity and resolution against terror.
Regional Dynamics and Historical Context
Pakistan’s cross-border strategy has been shaped by historical incidents, among them, previous skirmishes with Iran and the current situation with Afghanistan. The authorities have supported dialogue by carrying out trade, managing refugees, and utilizing their past influence, thus acquiring a strong position.
However, experts warned that strict mechanisms have their own dangers. For every tough step taken, diplomatic efforts should be there to prevent an increase in conflict or an adverse response. Experts signal that the NPVE policy, though novel, necessitates strict enforcement, region-specific adaptations, and strong civil-military coordination to succeed.
Conclusion: A Determined Path to Security
The events of 2025 illustrate Pakistan’s comprehensive approach to national security, combining decisive military operations, preventive policy measures, and strategic diplomacy. Operations across Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reinforced by the NPVE policy and Azm-e-Istehkam campaign, signal Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to dismantling extremist networks and safeguarding civilians.
Pakistan’s actions send a clear message: terrorism will not be tolerated, regional threats will be countered decisively, and the country is committed to fostering both national stability and regional security.