FINAL ASSIGNMENT

TERRORISM, EXTREMISM AND

STRATEGIC STABILITY COURSE: Foreign Policy Analysis

SUBMITTED TO

DR. IRAM KHALID

SUBMITTED BY

H. Imran Ahmed Qureshi

Roll No 21

1st Semester

M.Phil (IR)

DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE

UNIVERSITY OF THE PUNJAB

LAHORE

TERRORISM, EXTREMISM AND STRATEGIC STABILITY

Contents

1. Abstract

2. Terrorism becoming a Global Phenomenon

3. Repercussions and Ramifications of Middle East Terrorism on Pakistan

4. Pakistan and it’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts

5. Strategic Stability Options for Pakistan

6. Summary

7. Findings

8. Recommendations

References

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Abstract

Extremism and Terrorism has become trans-regional and trans-national phenomenon.

Bad governance of decades, poverty, illiteracy, lack of development and healthcare political

corruption, or for the sake of religious or political gains are main reasons of these menaces.

Moreover, it can also be an act to take revenge. Terrorism may be state sponsored for

political gains, or may be religious extremism. In Pakistan, both these terms became popular

after 9/11 incident. Pakistan was forced to become a front line ally on ‗War on Terror‘ of

international community and USA particularly, unwillingly. As the war on terrorism was to

be fought in Afghanistan, Pakistan got attention of the international community due to its

geo-strategic significance. Pakistan provided all kind of land, air, armed and logistical

support to counter terrorism. After the US led ‗war on terror‘ policy, Pakistan is facing

different challenges regarding terrorism. After being a frontline ally of US on war on terror,

terrorists activities have increased in Pakistan. Although, the reason of these terrorist

activities can be seen from multitudinal dimensions. The emergence of Islamic State (IS)

from Middle Eastern countries has expanded the phenomena‘s of extremism and terrorism

from regional to global. As people from all around the world including USA, Britain, Canada,

Afghanistan, Pakistan and from other Muslim and non-Muslim countries are joining the

group. The expansion of extremism and terrorism in new forms from Middle East, in South

Asian region indicates that it will remain the main political problem of the region for many

years. Pakistan has made countless efforts to counter-terrorism and extremism, and for the

strategic stability of the region.

Keywords: Extremism, Terrorism, Counter-terrorism, War on Terror, Militants

The term ‗terrorism‘ or ‗the war on terror‘ has become more prominent in post 9/11

period. The term was made prominent by US against Al-Qaeda. Although prior to the

incident of 9/11, the South Asian states had already being suffering from terrorism. But after

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the 9/11 incident it was perceived differently in South Asian region (Ahmar). In pre 9/11 era,

terrorism was perceived as strategies to deal with issue. Terrorism in South Asia has different

causes, which can be political, economic and religious. Terrorism is seen in two perspectives.

1. War on terror against non-state actors like Al-Qaeda particularly by U.S

2. Indo-Pak terrorism, done by both the states against each other covertly (Ahmar).

Cross-border terrorism by India and Pakistan both, at state level against each other. In

the War on Terror, efforts were made to halt those groups (may be ethnic or religious), which

have links with the foreign terrorist organizations.

As Dr. Moonis Ahmar says,

―Therefore, the Tamil Tigers and various splinter Tamil groups in Sri Lanka, the

Maoist movement in Nepal, the Kashmiri freedom movements in the Indian controlled parts

of Jammu and Kashmir and various religious parties and groups in Bangladesh and in

Pakistan were perceived to have links with a network of international terrorism and in cases

were dubbed as terrorists by the governments of these countries‖ (Ahmar). Some analysts say

that the measures taken by US to counter terrorism in reaction to the attacks on 9/11 on US

territory, remained unable to contain the violence (Junaid, 2005; p. 81).

Terrorism is a term which was mainly focused in South Asia, as the ―War on Terror‖

was initiated in Afghanistan to contain the terrorist activities throughout the world. South

Asia has a complex situation regarding terrorism. Afghanistan and Pakistan are the states

which are said to be the hub of terrorists, especially by the western community. This

perception gained more strength when on May 2, 2011, Osama Bin Laden, who was accused

and claimed responsible person for the 9/11 attacks on US, was shot in a compound in

Abbottabad, Pakistan. Whereas, Pakistan was already being declared as a hub of terrorist

activists by India through grey and black propaganda. There are concerns regarding terrorists

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between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Because Afghanistan and Pakistan both share a long

border of 2,640 km known as Durand line which is also controversial between both the states.

Moreover the emergence of Islamic State (IS) from Middle Eastern countries has

expanded the phenomena‘s of extremism and terrorism from regional to global. As people

from all around the world including USA, Britain, Canada, Afghanistan, Pakistan and from

other Muslim and non-Muslim countries are joining the group.

Due to long border the activists can move from Afghanistan into Pakistan and vise-

versa easily. After the US led ‗war on terror‘ policy, Pakistan is facing different challenges

regarding terrorism. After being a frontline ally of US on war on terror, terrorists activities

have increased in Pakistan. Although the reason of these terrorist activities can be seen from

multitudinal dimensions. Pakistan has been already accused of terrorist activities in Indian

held Occupied Kashmir and in India too, by India. Whereas Pakistan on the other hand

accuses India of different terrorist activities in Pakistan, especially in the province of

Baluchistan.

Foreign hand in the terrorist activities inside Pakistan can‘t be ignored. Especially by

the enemy of Pakistan, India, who lose no chance to make Pakistan weak and unstable. As

Pakistan has already experienced the role of India regarding the disintegration of East

Pakistan in 1971. The separatist movement in Baluchistan is also fuelled by Indian

intelligence agency RAW (Shaukat, 2010). Pakistan accuses India for supporting separatists

in Baluchistan, whereas India blames Pakistan for supporting terrorists activities in Kashmir.

As Afghanistan is considered the hub of Jihadists with the help of Pakistan and India blames

that, these Jihadists are used by ISI for the terrorists activities against India. For example

Mumbai attacks, attack on Embassy of India in Kabul and in the Jammu and Kashmir

(Khalid, 2011; p. 248). However the role of India is increasing at the western border of

Pakistan, as India is making huge investments in Afghanistan. That‘s why it is playing an

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active role in the reconstruction and economic development of Afghanistan (Khalid, 2011; p.

244). Although the South Asian states are facing terrorism to some extent. But the terrorism

between both the South Asian nuclear states is increasing day by day. In this research, it is

tried to understand that: How the phenomena of extremism and terrorism is expanding from

regional to global phenomena? What are the repercussions and ramifications of Middle East

terrorism on South Asia?

Objectives

To understand, that extremism and terrorism are becoming global phenomena from regional

phenomena.

To highlight the repercussions and ramifications of Middle East terrorism upon South Asia.

To highlight Pakistan‘s counter-terrorism efforts.

Literature Review:

In the book ―Terrorism, Security and Human Rights, „Harnessing the Rule of Law‟ ‖,

is written by Mahmood Monshipouri. In this book the writer criticizes the polices of Bush

administration, especially in Middle East. He redefines the security to include protection of

the human rights. In this context he ―examines the limits of the use of force, torture and

externally imposed democratization and focuses ofn the conditions under which alternative

counterterrorism tools can be viable.‖ However, he admits that there is no easy solution to the

tensions between human rights and security needs. He makes an argument that to ensure

security which sacrifices civil liberties of people is not only immoral but also politically

imprudent. (2013)

The book “Pakistan: Terrorism Ground Zero”, written by Rohan Gunaratna and

Khuram Iqbal, is a unique book that clearly explains Pakistan as a ―Terrorist Disneyland‖.

Following the introduction, the first chapter explains why tribal Pakistan has become the

epicenter of global terrorism. The second chapter covers the Pakistani Taliban their links

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abroad, financing, and intentions. The third chapter examines terrorism, its roots and

implications in Karachi, the key metropolis city of Pakistan. Chapter four assesses the key

terrorist groups operating in the country. Chapter five discusses the threats to the region,

especially to India and Iran. Chapter six highlights the suicidal trends in Pakistan. Finally, the

concluding chapter makes a plea for international support for Pakistan, counter-terrorism

efforts, warning that failure would have huge ramifications. (2011)

In ―Terrorism, A Critical Introduction‖, written by Richard Jackson, Lee Jarvis,

Jeroen Gunning and Marie Green Smyth, explains that terrorism has become an issue of

global significance. ‗War on Terror‘ or terrorism have an affect on every aspect of the

modern life. This book explains us the precise understanding of this phenomena with critical

approaches of terrorism. The book reveals the basic definition of the term terrorism, nature of

the terrorist threats and as well as the counter terrorism strategies. Moreover, it also explains

the types of terrorism with the understanding of state terrorism, The causes of non state

terrorism, and how to respond them are discussed from a different dimension. (2011)

Prof. Dr. Iram Khalid wrote an article on ―Militancy and Counter Militancy measures:

Impact on Pakistan‟s Foreign Policy‖ in Journal of Political Studies, University of the

Punjab, in 2015. This article provides the in-depth information about the affect of militancy

on Pakistan‘s foreign policy. Moreover, it highlights the constraints and incentives on our

foreign policy due to military action in tribal areas of Pakistan, by our armed forces. The

impact of Pakistan‘s internal security on our external relations. The article suggests that

Pakistan ought to highlight its counter-militancy efforts in the international community

through media campaign, effective diplomacy in the United Nations, and quick trial of

militants and terrorists in courts to give them the hard message.

The article ―The new „war on terror‟ ‖, by Zahid Hussain, was published in Dawn, on

November 18th

, 2015. In the article he explains that it was considered that IS emergence is

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the result of Middle East Civil War, but the militants of Islamic State (IS) group has

expanded the war from Iraq and Syria. The Paris attacks has changed the international

security paradigm. According to him the IS has ―widen the warfront and sharpen the

polarisation‖. No one could estimate that IS has capacity to carry out such kind of

coordinated and spectacular militant attacks. It has benefited from the proxy war between

Saudi Arabia and Iran in the Middle East. Whereas, its occupation on oil resources, make

them financially able to continue their suspicious activities. Moreover, he indicates that the

signs and presence of IS in Afghanistan, Pakistan and in the South Asian region. As most of

Pakistani Talibans and militants of other groups are joining the IS, which are running out

from the tribal areas of Pakistan due to the military operation. In short, this articles provides

us clear understanding that how the phenomena of Middle Eastern terrorism becoming a

global phenomena, and is influencing the South Asian region. (November 18th

, 2015)

The article, ―Lessons from the War against Al-Qaeda‖ was posted by Fareed Zakaria

on November 20, 2015. In this article he says that US is starting the same war, with same

enthusiasm against Islamic State, as it was against Al-Qaeda. He highlights that United States

ought to understand, that it has not only initiate a war, but also it has to end the war. In his

view, it might happened that IS had loosen some of the ground territory, but on the other

hand ‗it is resorting to terrorism abroad‘. By giving the reference of an author, Fareed Zakaria

highlights that whenever US used ―‗light-footprint strategy‘ — Special Operations forces,

covert intelligence and law enforcement — it did well‖, and when it used the coercive force

and sent troops in the Muslim countries ―al-Qaeda has benefited through increased

radicalization and additional recruits.‖ According to him this is the reason that why USA has

not defeated these militant groups, even after 14 years of warfare, in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria

and in other countries. He views that building up moderate Syrian army is a good solution but

history shows whenever foreigners have constructed the local army of a state, it lacked in

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legitimacy. At last he taunts by saying that fighting in Syria is not an easy task, and after

some inconclusive years of future people will ask US that ―How quickly can you withdraw?‖

Terrorism becoming a Global Phenomenon

The whole of the Asian region is facing the challenge of terrorism and extremism.

South Asian region especially Afpak theatre is considered the epicenter of this complex

phenomenon (Gunaratna & Iqbal, 2011). Major four South Asian states like Pakistan, India,

Bangladesh and Maldives are facing any one type/kind of terrorism. Sri Lanka has recently

addressed the Liberation Tigers of Tiger Elam (LTTE) issue. Terrorist activities are not being

only faced by South Asian countries, but the whole of Asia is facing this challenge. Iran,

Afghanistan, China and Russia, all faces different types and kinds of terrorist activities, with

different intensity. Whereas, neighbouring regions of South Asia including Middle East,

South East Asia, Central Asia and Western Asia have to face it‘s implications too. The reason

is that South Asia serves as a connecting point to the whole of region. So, we can say that any

event, development or activity occurring in the neighbouring regions will affect directly or

indirectly South Asia and vise versa. However, it will be helpful to discuss the whole of Asia

in context of terrorism and extremism, rather than dividing into regions and sub-regions.

The contemporary main issues of South Asian regions are: arising of Islamist

militants creating instability in Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Bangladesh as a chain

reaction; the ―Red Corridor‖ comprising Moist insurgency in India and Nepal; uncontained

Afghan conflict which affects Pakistan through its Federally Administered Tribal Areas

(FATA). Moreover, the political rise of Hindu radicalism in India hyping anti-Muslim

sentiment; and Liberation Tigers of Tiger Elam (LTTE) (Iqbal, 2015).

Pakistan is considered the ―Terrorist Disneyland‖ in the world (Gunaratna & Iqbal,

2011). The main terrorist organizations which have links or working in South Asia are: the

Al-Qaeda, Tehrik-i-Taliban (Afghanistan & Pakistan), the East Turkestan Islamic Movement

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(ETIM), the Islamic State (IS), Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU), and numerous other

Afghan militant factions. South Asia is the region which consists of highest number of

militant groups in the world, India topping with 50 active or dormant terrorist organizations.

Many of these regional entities have links with international organizations (Iqbal, 2015).

Terrorism and extremism in South Asia is very complex and diverse. Terrorism is not

only increased in intensity, but it has become more scientifically advanced, technologically

sophisticated and in communication pace. It is visible that South Asian terrorists or insurgents

are increasingly moving towards more terrible and indiscriminate actions. Terrorists are

showing increased sophistication in their attacks and strikes, not only in the field of weapons

but also in the ways they carry out attacks, to draw the regional and world attention towards

their cause, by playing bigger and more dramatic actions.

South Asia faced very minute amount of organized terrorism until early 1980s, is now

facing an acute and bloodiest terrorist violence in the world. Following Middle East, it is

considered as world‘s most terrorism-active region, in term of casualties. Combating

terrorism and extremism is the biggest challenge which is being faced by the South Asian

leadership. The prevailing trends shows that issue of terrorism and extremism will remain the

main political problem of the region for many years.

Factor of terrorism is also influencing the South Asian interstate relations. Due to the

threat perception, the states of South Asia are reluctant to cooperate with each other on the issue

of terrorism. For example, India‘s rigid attitude towards the Kashmir issue and its false-flag

efforts to link the indigenous movement of Kashmiri people, for highlighting their right of self-

determination, linking it with terrorism is not acceptable to Pakistan and as well as to the

international community.

Moreover, India frequently blames on Pakistan and its intelligence agencies for the

involvement of all sorts of terrorist activities inside India. However, powerful voices from inside

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India are emerging, that some of high profile terrorist activities which were formerly blamed on

Pakistan, such as attacks of Indian Parliament were false flag operations organized by Indian

intelligence. Furthermore, it is evident that some worst anti-Muslim riots in India were conducted

by Indian law enforcement agencies, facilitated by state (provincial) governments. India not only

blames Pakistan for terrorism, but it also complaints against Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal and

Bangladesh for allowing terrorist organizations to use their territories to run terrorist camps in

North Eastern India.

Besides this, Sri Lanka also accuses India for supporting Tamil terrorist organizations

inside Sri Lanka. It is important to formulate effective strategies to counter this menace, as South

Asian region accounts highest in terrorism-related deaths. South Asian strategies for strategic

stability of the region, ought to be focused on good governance, strengthening the role of civil

societies, joint mechanisms for early warning and response, and by developing and appropriate

structural framework to combat and prevent terrorism. In today‘s changed economic and security,

it is highly important to deal with security issues, like extremism and terrorism through collective

regional cooperation. The third South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)

summit, which was held in Kathmandu in 1987, passed a resolution to suppress terrorism. This

resolution was further reinforced in 2001 summit. SAARC adopted oodles of conventions in this

regard, including: SAARC Regional Convention on Suppression of Terrorism (signed by all

member states which came into force in 1988), Additional Protocol to the SAARC Regional

Convention on Suppression of Terrorism (2002), and Bilateral Counter Terrorism Agreements

(Iqbal, 2015). Its members have also concentrated on National Counter Terrorism measures and

regulations. Moreover, SAARC can further take steps as: sharing of intelligence and information,

restricting the financing of terrorism by adopting and implementing regional money laundering

laws, formulating a code of conduct for restricting members interference in any other members

intra-state conflicts directly or indirectly. All these strategies are very difficult to counter

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terrorism, as all the South Asian states are mired in some kind of serious conflicts, and threat

perception exist against each other.

Repercussions and Ramifications of Middle East Terrorism on Pakistan

Since the 9/11 attacks, Middle East has also become a source of violence domestically, as

well as internationally. US tried hard to bring political and economic reforms in Middle East to

confront the terrorist threat (Monshipouri, 2013, Pp.95) but all in vain. On 4th September , 2014,

Al Qaeda announced in a video that they have established a new branch in the Indian

subcontinent, which will revive jihadist activities in the region. Whereas, Mr. Ayman al-Zawahiri

announced the formation of ―Qaedat al-Jihad or al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent‖, (BBC,

2014) by say it has taken two years ―to gather the mujahedeen in the Indian subcontinent into a

single entity‖. On the other hand, according to the Indian media, their country‘s Intelligence

Agencies has verified it and alarmed the police officials about this high level threat

(LiveLeak.com). In the video recording Al Qaeda leader affirmed his intentions to ―crush the

artificial borders established by the English occupiers to divide the Muslims‖. This newly

emerging entity has accepted the responsibility of hijacking the Pakistani naval ship, named PNS

Zulfiqar on 6th September, 2014. The intentions were to use it to fire on US vessels which were

present in the Arabian Sea. This was the first major terrorist activity by this group focusing on

South Asia.

From another dimension, the failure of Al Qaeda philosophy of implementing social and

political changes through their regime change strategies, another philosophy has emerged in the

form of Islamic State (IS). This shattered entity of Al Qaeda aims to physically occupy as much

as territory to claim their statehood. Moreover they also continue to defend it and then expand

their area of influence. At present, Islamic State (IS), has a control over wide range of land in

Syria and Iraq, including one third of total oil wells of Iraq. We can say IS as a defacto state. This

form of terrorism is more challenging as it shows the state‘s inability to evacuate such kind of

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regimes from their sovereign territories. This concept will give encouragement of new trend, that

sooner or later they could get legitimacy on such principles (Iqbal, 2015). Besides this, some

other jihadist organizations have announced their support without formally joining the Islamic

State including Yemeni Al-Qaeda, and some groups which are affiliated with Al-Qaeda in an

Islamic Maghreb. Such developments will lead to proxy wars at the regional level by the South

Asian neighbouring states in support and as well as against to such kind of emerging principles.

Along with the ―Qaedat Al-Jihad in the Indian Subcontinent‖, the presence and

emergence of Islamic State (IS) can be seen in Pakistan. As this new entity has distributed

booklets and pamphlets, in Baluchistan and in Peshawar, capital of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa

province. These booklets titled ―Fateh‖ which means victory, published in Pushto and Dari

languages. Such copies were also sent to Afghan journalists, working in Afghanistan. Lately,

such kind of documents were also found in Ismaeli community bus, which was attacked by the

terrorists in Karachi on 12th May, 2015. However, government at official level denied the

presence of IS in Pakistan, claiming it as only Middle East specific entity. It is considered as the

richest and largest militant group in the world, which has gained strength from the anarchy. It is

the combination of different groups split by the parent group, which is aided by fighters from

many countries. Islamic State is recruiting its new members from all over the Western countries

through social media, or from known supporters in USA, Britain, Canada and from other non-

Muslim nations. US State Department proclaims that it knows dozens of US citizens fighting

with IS. Canadian government claims atleast 130 Canadians, and over 500 Britons are claimed by

British government, which are working or fighting with IS (Iqbal, 2015). Saudi Arabia‘s Grand

Mufti has issued a verdict against IS terrorists. Saudi Arabia has arrested numbers of suspected

extremists and terrorists. Recently, Iran has also claimed of arresting Afghan and Pakistani

citizens which were crossing border to join IS. It is estimated that IS has more than 30,000 fighter

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members, which controls the area of size of Britain and sales about US$ 3 million oil per day in

black market.

It might happened that IS had loosen some of the ground territory due to foreign

intervention particularly US, but on the other hand ‗it is resorting to terrorism abroad‘

(Zakaria, 2015). These developments exhibits that terrorism may be more near to formulation

level, rather than culmination stage in South Asian region, and South Asia will be a playing field

for both IS and Al-Qaeda with their competing philosophies.

Pakistan and its Counter-Terrorism Efforts

Pakistan always condemned extremism and terrorism in all its forms. After the attack on

twin towers on 11th

September, 2001, United Nations Security Council, passed different

resolutions demanding the global cooperation against terrorism by declaring Al-Qaeda as the

number one enemy for the peace and security of the world (Rizvi, 2005). In general, Pakistan

aligned itself with international community and in particular, with United States to fight war

against terrorism in it‘s neighbourhood. Pakistan permitted access to its military bases, to use its

ground and air supply routes, as well as the logistical support which played a vital role in

international counter terrorism efforts in Afghanistan. Moreover, President of USA Barack

Obama, during his first term, he demanded Pakistan and Afghanistan to bring out the Al-Qaeda

members from their hideouts (Rashid, 2014d). Pakistan also captured and handed over more than

600 suspected Al-Qaeda members to US. Pakistan played a vital role for combating and

countering terrorism and extremism at national, regional, as well as at global level. Pakistan has

voted for all UNSC resolutions for combating terrorism, and is in the compliance with all such

kind of resolutions. Pakistan is a member, as well as an observer of many important regional

organizations like SAARC, SCO, ARF etc. which has explicit declarations to counter terrorism.

After 9/11 incident, Pakistan‘s military vital role was to prevent the terrorist fighters,

fleeing from the Afghanistan due to the chase by US led coalition forces but entangled in another

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demanding contingency. In a dramatic false-flaged operation, Indian parliament was under attack

by five persons, which were associated with the struggle for right of the self determination of

Kashmiri people.

After this incident, India deployed its armed forces on international border with Pakistan

aggressively. This Indian act forced Pakistan to divert it resources and deploy its military and

intelligence towards Indian border. Due to this, the border with Afghanistan remained unsecure

and Pakistan was unable to make sufficient arrangements to check and stop the inflow of terrorist

and extremist fighters from Afghanistan (Iqbal, 2015). These incoming militants are able to settle

down in the tribal areas of Pakistan as they had similar physical features with them. They could

even easily speak th local language of tribal areas. Soon they began to reorganize and reconstitute

the group. Initially, their activities remained trans-border, crossing over to Afghanistan and back,

and low scale terrorist activities occasionally in Pakistan. But in the meanwhile, theywere able to

make their sleeping cells in important urban areas.

The first demonstration of their power was by the women students of Lal Masjid (Red

Masjid) in Islamabad. A military operation against the militants of Lal Masjid in July, 2007 was a

turning point. It might be a tactical success but a large bloodshed. The presence of Tehrik-e-

Taliban Pakistan was announced officially under the leadership of ex Guantanamo Bay prisoner

Baitullah Mehsud in December, 2007. However, Pakistan banned the group, froze its all bank

accounts and assets, and banned it from media appearance on 25th August, 2008. Bounties on

prominent leaders of TTP was also announced by the government.

The creation of TTP was a turning point, as their terrorist activities were not confined by

the foreign intruders. Now their local collaborators were well trained and motivated to participate

in the terrorist activities. There attacks were no longer coward attacks, but now these were well

organized and high profile attacks on well guarded civil and military targets, which created a

feeling of perpetual insecurity. Suicide attacks were another tool of extremists and terrorists.

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Suicide attacks were the most deadly strategy used by some militant groups under the auspices of

Taliban and Al-Qaeda (Gunaratna & Iqbal, 2011). This seemed that nothing was safe. These

insecure developments led towards the national consensus to use hard force to counter terrorists.

Since 2008, series of operations have been taken place to combat these terrorist entities. These

operations led to pushing out of terrorists from all adjoining areas to North Waziristan. At

present, a massive operation named ―Zarb-e-Azb‖ is underway in North Waziristan. The brief

information of Pakistan‘s efforts to counter this menace are as follow:

Rah-e-Rast Operation

The operation ―Rah-e-Rast‖ meaning (right path) was initiated in Malakand, Swat area on

May, 2009. Pak Army and Pak Air Force combinedly fought against terrorists and to get control

of Swat district. The military operation took place throughout the district to evacuate it from

Taliban. However, this resulted in displacement of 2.2 million people approximately. The

operation was a major success. By August, 2009, a major number of Internally Displaced Persons

(IDPs) had returned to home. Majority of the middle ranking Taliban leaders were captured and

militants were evacuated from the area. This was followed by massive deradicalization and

rehabilitation programs.

Rah-e-Nijat Operation

An operation ―Rah-e-Nijat‖ which means (path to salvation) was also the strategic

military operation by our armed forces (army and air force) against Tahrik-e-Taliban Pakistan

(TTP) and their extremist allies in South Waziristan. Pakistan was now going to deal with TTP

Chief Baitullah Mehsud and its 20,000 hardened militants. On 17th October, major land and air

offensive was launched. By 12th December, 2009, the operation Rah-e-Nijat was over and

military retook control of whole of South Waziristan. However, none of the top Taliban leader

was captured or killed. At various points Pakistan military requested to their ISAF/NATO

counterparts to seal the border by increasing the border posts along with Pak-Afghan border so

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that they could halt the fleeing of militants into Afghanistan. Unfortunately, the request was not

accepted, which resulted in fleeing of all top leadership of Taliban to Afghanistan. During this

operation, approximately 11,080 families (80,000 individuals) were registered with IDP camps.

These displaced people returned back to their homes after the completion of operation.

Likewise, through well managed military operations, terrorists and militants were

evacuated from other administrative units of FATA. These combatants started to settle in North

Waziristan. Soon this area became home of more than 10,000 battle hardened militants of local,

as well as foreign origin (Iqbal, 2015). Due to which Pakistan had to face tremendous domestic

and international pressure to launch an offensive military operation in North Waziristan. But the

operation was avoided, till the change of political and military leadership until 2013-14.

Strategic Stability Options for Pakistan

Negotiations:

Tackling with the extremists and terrorists was also an electoral issue for 2013 elections.

There was a national consensus to eradicate these menaces, but there was difference of opinion

on strategies by the major parties. So, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mian Muhammad Nawaz

Sharif preferred negotiations for the political settlement of the strategy. Later on, after coming

into power in June, 2013, Prime Minister made a parliamentary consensus for initiating dialogue

with the militants. However four months long process failed due to the stubborn attitude of

militants and their continued acts of terrorism.

Offensive Military Operations

After the failure of negotiations, the government of Pakistan decided to launch and

offensive military operations against the militants residing in North Waziristan., named ―Zarb-e-

Azb‖ on 15th June, 2014. However, over one million people displaced due to this operation.

Major objectives were achieved within three months, more than 1,500 local and foreign militants

were killed, the remaining militants are on the run. Moreover, militants have no longer capacity

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to carry out sustained and organized violence. However, they still have the capacity to carry out

the sporadic attacks at different times and places. At present, the military operation is due to the

Pakistan‘s own national interest with national consensus. Despite of high international pressure

over the past few years, the time and scope of conducting this operation (Zarb-e-Azb) was a well

thought national decision. But it will continue till the terrorism is eliminated from the country.

This operation has got full support from all political, defence and civilian sectors throughout the

Pakistan. The two main largest Islamic groups including (The Council of Islamic Ideology) and

(The Pakistan Ulema Council), have announced a ―Fatwa‖ (verdict) in support of military

operations, calling it as a jihad against extremism and terrorism. Apart from it, it is important to

highlight that the domestic peace and stability of North Waziristan is linked with, how the

situation evolves in Afghanistan, as well as in the adjoining Afghan provinces with Waziristan.

Moreover, it depends that to what extent the Afghan government cooperates in controlling the

violence from its own side.

Summary

Terrorism and Extremism has become popular term which is expanding from regional

to global phenomena worldwide. There are oodles of reasons for the expansion of these

menaces, such as poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, or for the sake of religious or political

gains. Moreover, it can also be an act to take revenge. In its historical context, terrorist

activities were carried out by rebels for destabilizing the governments, or to get rid of from

the foreigner rulers. Terrorism may be state sponsored for political gains, or may be religious

extremism. In Pakistan, both these terms became popular after 9/11 incident. Pakistan was

forced to became a front line ally on ‗War on Terror‘ of international community and USA

particularly, unwillingly. As the war on terrorism was to be fought in Afghanistan, Pakistan

got attention of the international community especially US, due to its geo-strategic

significance (Sattar, 2007, p. 247). Pakistan provided all kind of land, air, armed and

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logistical support to counter terrorism. India tried her best to replace Pakistan by offering

refueling and all kind of logistical support to the coalition against terrorism, whereas Pakistan

its Karachi naval bases and airbases in Baluchistan and Sindh (Kapur, 2002; Iqbal, 2012;

Latif, Abbas & Safdar, 2012). After the US led ‗war on terror‘ policy, Pakistan is facing

different challenges regarding terrorism. After being a frontline ally of US on war on terror,

terrorists activities have increased in Pakistan. Although, the reason of these terrorist

activities can be seen from multitudinal dimensions. Pakistan has been already accused of

terrorist activities in Indian held Occupied Kashmir and in India too, by India. Whereas,

Pakistan on the other hand, accuses India of different terrorist activities in Pakistan,

especially in the province of Baluchistan. Furthermore, Extremism and Terrorism has become

trans-regional and trans-national phenomenon. The emergence of Islamic State (IS) from

Middle Eastern countries has expanded the phenomena‘s of extremism and terrorism from

regional to global. As people from all around the world including USA, Britain, Canada,

Afghanistan, Pakistan and from other Muslim and non-Muslim countries are joining the

group. The expansion of extremism and terrorism in new forms from Middle East, in South

Asian region indicates that it will remain the main political problem of the region for many

years. Pakistan has made countless efforts to counter-terrorism and extremism, and for the

strategic stability of the region.

Findings

In Pakistan, there is a national consensus to eradicate the terrorism from its territories,

with an aim not to allow any individual or an entity, to use its territories to conduct

terrorist activities on any country.

Pakistan as a sovereign state considers herself as part of solution in counter-terrorism

efforts.

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The 9/11 incident changed the whole scenario of world politics. The terrorists hijacked

the airplanes, and targeted the World Trade Center and Pentagon. This was an act of

suicide terrorism, as terrorists also wanted to die.

It is important to highlight that the domestic peace and stability of North Waziristan is

linked with, how the situation evolves in Afghanistan, as well as in the adjoining Afghan

provinces with Waziristan.

Militants which retains in Afghanistan has the capacity and capability to attack all kinds

of targets at any time and place according to their wish. As long as these militant retain in

Afghanistan, they will continue to effect Pakistan.

Extremism and Terrorism has become trans-regional and trans-national phenomenon.

The expansion of extremism and terrorism in new forms from Middle East, in South

Asian region indicates that it will remain the main political problem and challenge of

the region for many years.

Indian Intelligence Agency (RAW), has been given a task to disrupt the implementation

of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). For this purpose, approximately US$ 300

million are given.

Recommendations

The issue of suicide extremism and terrorism ought to be addressed on urgent basis. The

main root cause that why people prefer to kill themselves need to be realized at priority

bases. In post 9/11 period, suicide attacks are the most deadliest strategy used by some

militant groups under the auspices of Taliban and Al-Qaeda.

Pakistan should remain restraint from indulging itself in the wars of others. Pakistan

should make sure, that nobody can use it as a tool for their own purpose and interests, like

in first and second Afghan war. Likewise recently, Pakistan restricted herself to militarily

act in the ideological wars in Saudi Arabia.

19

As the issue to check on madrassas is highlighted nowadays. The governments schools

and other such institutions which are promoting extremist and radical education ought to

be checked.

Pakistan should readjust, rearrange and reconstruct its political, religious and political

values internally at government level.

Terrorism or a militant extremism has increasingly become a trans-national and trans-

regional phenomenon. It is necessary to aggregate national and regional approaches to

counter this menace. Despite of unprecedented international efforts to militarily defeat

terrorism, no lasting solution is visible. Radicalized societies like Pakistan will continue to

produce militant extremists in large numbers until it is addressed from its roots. The issue of

suicide extremism and terrorism ought to be addressed on urgent basis. The main root cause that

why people prefer to kill themselves need to be realized at priority bases. In post 9/11 period,

suicide attacks are the most deadliest strategy used by some militant groups under the auspices of

Taliban and Al-Qaeda. Pakistan should remain restraint from indulging itself in the wars of

others. Pakistan should make sure, that nobody can use it as a tool for their own purpose and

interests, like in first and second Afghan war. Likewise recently, Pakistan restricted herself to

militarily act in the ideological wars in Saudi Arabia. As the issue to check on madrassas is

highlighted nowadays. The governments schools and other such institutions which are promoting

extremist and radical education ought to be checked. Nation-states need to understand that

peace, prosperity and stability of a particular state depends upon the peace, prosperity and

stability of other state, especially immediate and regional neighbours. And the states which

export extremism and terrorism will also have to face same consequences of the region.

20

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