Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, head of JUI-F, rejects operation Azm-e-Istehkam, citing a lack of confidence from tribal elders in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

In a pivotal development highlighting regional dissent and political discord, Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, leader of Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam Pakistan Fazl (JUI-F), convened a gathering of tribal elders in Pakistan’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The meeting followed the announcement of “Operation Azm-e-Istehkam” (Resolve for Stability) by Pakistan’s government, aimed at quelling escalating militancy in the region. This operation, endorsed by the National Action Plan’s apex committee chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, seeks to bolster security amidst mounting concerns over militant activities.

Addressing reporters after the council meeting, Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman expressed the unanimous sentiment of tribal elders who declared “no confidence” in Operation Azm-e-Istehkam. He portrayed the operation as ineffective and labelled it as “No Stability,” emphasizing the gravity of the security situation in the region. According to him, armed groups have expanded their influence, controlling checkpoints and extorting travellers, exacerbating local insecurity.

Reflecting on historical precedents, Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman criticized past military interventions in tribal areas, decrying their devastating impact on communities. Many locals, he noted, were displaced and left destitute after their homes and livelihoods were destroyed in previous conflicts, fostering resentment and distrust towards government security measures.

Pakistan attributes the recent surge in militant attacks within its borders to alleged support from neighbouring Afghanistan, an accusation vehemently denied by Kabul. Tensions have escalated, with Pakistan recently deporting over 600,000 Afghan nationals, exacerbating diplomatic strains between the two countries.

Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman cautioned against deteriorating relations with the Afghan Taliban, urging Pakistan’s government to tread carefully to avoid isolation diplomatically. He warned that alienating potential allies both in the East and the West could leave Pakistan vulnerable and isolated on the international stage.

Analysis:

Political Perspective: Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman’s rejection of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam highlights significant political divisions within Pakistan’s ruling coalition and opposition parties, particularly in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa heavily impacted by militancy. The government’s efforts to garner consensus in parliament underscore ongoing challenges in navigating security policies amidst opposition and regional dissent.

Social Perspective: The tribal elders’ rejection of the anti-terrorism operation underscores complex socio-political dynamics in Pakistan’s border regions, where communities often view military interventions with scepticism due to past displacements and economic hardships. There is a pressing need for policies that address local grievances and ensure community participation in security initiatives to effectively combat militancy.

Economic Perspective: The aftermath of Operation Azm-e-Istehkam could further strain regional economies already burdened by conflict and displacement, exacerbating socio-economic disparities. Sustainable peacebuilding efforts are crucial to mitigate support for militant groups and foster economic stability in affected areas.

International Perspective: Pakistan’s strained relations with Afghanistan over allegations of cross-border militancy highlight broader regional implications. Diplomatic efforts to manage these tensions are essential to prevent further destabilization in South Asia, with implications for regional security and stability.