ISLAMABAD: Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s zero-tolerance policy against terrorism originating from Afghan soil, while calling for national unity and sectarian harmony during an interaction with Ulema from the Ahl-e-Tasheeh community. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the meeting focused on national security, internal cohesion, and the role of religious scholars in countering extremism and misinformation. Gen Munir emphasised that Pakistan will not permit Afghan territory to be used for terrorist activities against its citizens. He reiterated that security forces will continue precise, intelligence-driven operations under Operation Ghazab Lil Haq to dismantle terrorist networks and their infrastructure. Highlighting the pivotal role of Ulema, he urged them to promote unity, tolerance, and national cohesion, particularly by discouraging sectarian narratives and externally sponsored destabilisation efforts. He also stressed that religious sentiments must not be exploited to incite violence, warning that unrest in Pakistan sparked by events elsewhere would not be tolerated. Gen Munir further highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to ensure regional de-escalation and stability, urging religious leaders to actively contribute to maintaining peace and countering extremist ideologies. Participating scholars strongly condemned violence in the name of religion and expressed full support for state institutions and law enforcement agencies in preserving peace and stability nationwide. Prominent figures, including Maulana Zahid Abbas Kazmi and Allama Shabbir Hassan Maysami, reaffirmed their commitment to national unity and pledged to stand alongside Pakistan’s armed forces against both internal and external threats. The ulema also paid tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs, underscoring that safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and stability remains a collective national responsibility. They offered special prayers for the country’s security, unity, and prosperity. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026