Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir honoured the bravery and dedication of Pakistani soldiers who have laid down their lives in the battle against terrorism, saying that the sacrifices made by valiant officers and soldiers exemplify the armed forces' unwavering commitment to protecting the nation.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the COAS stressed that Pakistan stands united with its Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies in the fight against Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), commonly referred to as Fitna al Khawarij, and other terrorist threats.
The remarks were made at the funeral prayer of Major Muhammad Haseeb Shaheed, 28, a resident of Rawalpindi, who embraced martyrdom while defending the motherland in Harnai district, Balochistan.
The funeral ceremony was held at Chaklala Garrison, Rawalpindi, and was attended by General Syed Asim Munir, Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Mr Ahsan Iqbal, and senior civil and military officials, along with officers, soldiers, and family members of the Shaheed (martyr).
Major among two martyred in Harnai operation
Earlier, Major Haseeb had led an intelligence-based operation targeting terrorists planning to attack civilians in Harnai, Balochistan. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation resulted in the elimination of three terrorists, delivering a significant blow to insurgent groups in the region.
However, during the operation, an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated, hitting the leading vehicle and resulting in the martyrdom of Major Haseeb and Havildar Noor Ahmed, 38, from District Barkhan.
Both soldiers, who were known for leading their troops from the front, demonstrated exceptional courage. Their sacrifice, according to the COAS, underscores the resilience and commitment of Pakistan’s Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism. Despite the attack, security forces were able to neutralize the terrorist threat and ensure the safety of local civilians.
The Interior Minister, Syed Mohsin Naqvi, praised the security forces' determination and paid tribute to the bravery of Major Haseeb and Havildar Noor Ahmed, extending his condolences to their families.
“The sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthen our resolve to eliminate terrorism from our soil and safeguard the peace, stability, and progress of Balochistan,” he said.