What Is Azm-e-Istehkam? Pakistan's New Military Operation To Curb Terrorism

A new military operation named Azm-e-Istehkam, meaning 'Resolve for Stability' in Urdu, has been approved by Pakistan's top leadership aimed at quelling a surge in violence and terrorism.

This initiative follows a comprehensive review conducted by Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of the country's counterterrorism operations, with particular focus on the National Action Plan adopted after the December 2014 Peshawar Army Public School attack, which resulted in over 140 deaths, mostly students, attributed to the Pakistan Taliban (TTP), as reported by First Post.

What is the objective of the military operation?

The operation is aimed at addressing domestic security threats and the influx of armed militants from Afghanistan amidst escalating tensions between Islamabad and Kabul. Plans to "intensify" efforts against "terrorists" through enhanced regional cooperation have been announced by Sharif's office.

The campaign will also see the incorporation of socioeconomic measures to address public concerns and foster an environment that discourages extremist tendencies. This holistic strategy integrates military, legislative, and diplomatic efforts to combat terrorism and extremism, as reported by First Post.

"A comprehensive approach that includes socioeconomic measures aimed at addressing genuine public concerns and creating an environment that discourages extremist tendencies," stated a release from the prime minister's office (PMO).

The military campaign will also ensure legal backing from all law enforcement agencies, tackling legal gaps that hinder prosecution and imposing severe penalties on terrorists.

"The renewed and robust military efforts will be supported by all Law Enforcement Agencies, empowered by effective legislation to address legal challenges that hinder the prosecution of terrorism-related cases and the imposition of severe penalties," according to the Pakistan PMO statement.

The operation also underscores socioeconomic measures to address genuine public concerns and deter extremist inclinations. The media will be utilized to promote a cohesive national narrative endorsing the campaign.

What is Afghanistan's role?

The announcement comes amid a significant uptick in violent incidents over the past 18 months, primarily claimed by the TTP. The TTP terminated a ceasefire in November 2022, and Pakistan has accused Kabul of sheltering TTP members, an accusation the Taliban government denies. Analysts foresee potential escalations if Pakistan extends its operation into Afghanistan.

"In March, Pakistan conducted cross-border strikes into Afghanistan targeting suspected Pakistani Taliban hideouts, actions publicly confirmed by the foreign office," said Ihsanullah Tipu, a security analyst based in Islamabad, to Al Jazeera. Tipu noted Islamabad views kinetic military actions as the most effective method to counter armed violence.

Is Pakistan adhering to China's directives?

The operation also addresses concerns from China, a critical ally and investor in Pakistan's infrastructure via the $62 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Ensuring the safety of Chinese nationals and projects has become paramount following numerous attacks, including the deaths of five Chinese engineers in March 2024, as per media reports.

"We must enhance security and create a conducive business environment. The security situation is a primary factor undermining the confidence of Chinese investors in Pakistan," stated Liu Jianchao, a senior Chinese official, during his visit to Pakistan.

However, according to Asfandyar Mir, a South Asia expert at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), the timing of the new operation may be more influenced by domestic politics and economic considerations, despite Chinese concerns likely playing a role in Pakistani leadership's decisions.

What are the domestic factors?

Domestically, Pakistan faced near-default and underwent significant political turmoil during last year's elections, which made a large-scale military campaign impractical.

"With the elections concluded and a stable government in place, coupled with some degree of economic stabilization, Pakistani leadership now feels it has the necessary domestic political space and economic stability to vigorously pursue a campaign to address the deteriorating security situation," Mir told Al Jazeera.

Can the military operation succeed?

Despite robust planning, concerns remain regarding the potential success of the operation. Abdul Sayed, a researcher on armed groups, highlighted that armed factions often target security forces to undermine government interests while trying to maintain public support. The lack of local support in violence-affected regions could diminish the operation's effectiveness.

"Pakistani Taliban forces lack permanent bases in Pakistan, operating instead from makeshift locations that frequently change, as reported. If Pakistan extends operations across the Afghan border, it could escalate tensions between the two nations," noted Tipu, an Islamabad-based security analyst.

Through a combination of military measures, legislative backing, and socioeconomic initiatives, the operation aims to restore stability and security within Pakistan while addressing both regional dynamics and international concerns.