Defense Minister Khawaja Asif Calls Missing Persons “Total Fraud,” Vows to Eradicate Terrorism
Sialkot: Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has described the issue of missing persons as a “total fraud” and vowed to eradicate terrorism across the country.
Speaking to the media in Sialkot, Khawaja Asif said most missing individuals are members of the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). “When terrorists are killed, it is revealed that their names were listed among the missing. Their families even receive missing persons allowances, while terrorists exploit women and children,” he said.
Referring to recent attacks, the defense minister said women were used in two locations, with terrorists attempting to drag the country into economic instability. He claimed confessions from arrested suspects indicate India’s involvement in terrorism and emphasized that the BLA is a foreign-funded terrorist organization with networks in other countries.
Khawaja Asif warned that India and Afghanistan should refrain from using terrorist franchises such as the BLA and TTP. “We have been fighting them for a long time and will eliminate terrorism completely,” he said, citing attacks on Quetta’s Saryab Road, the Dalbandin FC headquarters, and Noski, noting that terrorists targeted 12 locations and left numerous casualties before fleeing. He added that security forces are still conducting operations in these areas.
On India’s role, he alleged, “Modi organizes shows to appease Israel and please the US,” adding that Pakistan has previously downed seven Indian aircraft, a claim reportedly acknowledged by former US President Donald Trump.
Khawaja Asif reiterated that terrorists have cloaked themselves in human rights rhetoric. “Missing persons is a total fraud, a fabricated narrative. Many of these individuals reside in Dubai and Muscat. Now, women and children are being exploited. In Karachi, a young female suicide bomber admitted that she was brainwashed,” he said. He added that terrorists are increasingly targeting vulnerable populations, but all recent targets have been neutralized, and facilitators are being systematically eliminated.
The defense minister also criticized political actors who remain silent or fail to condemn terrorism, calling them de facto facilitators. He praised Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister for condemning terrorism. “Political differences must not obstruct the fight against terrorism. Across provinces, children and youth are sacrificing their lives. All political parties should prioritize love for the homeland over political interests,” he said.
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