December 16, 2014, will forever be remembered as one of the darkest days in Pakistan’s history. On this day, the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar became the target of one of the most brutal terrorist attacks ever witnessed.
The nation was shaken to its core as the horrific news unfolded: 134 innocent students, aged between 12 and 18 years, along with several teachers and the school principal, were brutally martyred in an unforgivable act of barbarity.
The attack, executed by the FAK terrorist group, was a meticulously planned act of terror, carried out with the support and financing of hostile intelligence agencies. This heinous crime was an assault not only on the children of Pakistan but also on the nation’s future.
As the country commemorates the 10th anniversary of this tragic event in 2024, the collective grief, pain, and agony remain etched in the hearts of Pakistanis. Yet, this anniversary is also a testament to the nation’s resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to uproot the menace of terrorism.
The Tragedy That Shook a Nation
The APS attack was not a mere act of terrorism; it was an attempt to sow chaos and despair in the hearts of Pakistanis. The terrorists stormed the school with the sole intention of inflicting maximum pain and suffering, targeting children in their classrooms symbols of innocence, hope, and the future.
Among the many heroic stories of sacrifice, one stands out: the school principal, Tahira Qazi, who refused to abandon her students and embraced martyrdom while trying to protect them. The victims of this tragedy were not just students and teachers; they were the pride and joy of their families and the backbone of Pakistan’s aspirations. The senseless loss of these young lives was a cruel reminder of the depths of inhumanity that terrorism can reach.
The Attackers and Their Foreign Handlers
The masterminds of this despicable attack were members of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), led by the notorious Mullah Fazal Ullah. Key collaborators, including Gul Zaman Orakzai, Omar Narai, and Muhammad Khurasani, were also involved.
These individuals, with their warped ideology and un-Islamic beliefs, were in direct contact with their handlers from foreign intelligence agencies, including India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and Afghanistan’s National Directorate of Security (NDS).
Evidence revealed that these handlers provided financial support, training, and logistical assistance to execute the APS attack. This tragic incident underscored the extent to which external forces have exploited terrorist organizations to destabilize Pakistan.
A Nation United Against Terrorism
In the face of such immense tragedy, Pakistan stood united. The APS attack became a turning point in the country’s fight against terrorism. It galvanized the entire nation, transcending political, ethnic, and sectarian divides. The grief of the bereaved families became the grief of the entire country, and their resilience inspired a renewed determination to eradicate terrorism.
The government and military, with the support of the people, launched Operation Zarb-e-Azb, a comprehensive military offensive targeting terrorist sanctuaries in tribal areas. This was followed by the National Action Plan (NAP), a 20-point agenda designed to eliminate terrorism in all its forms. The NAP included measures such as reforming madrassas, curbing hate speech, dismantling terrorist networks, and strengthening the criminal justice system to deal with terrorism cases effectively.
While the implementation of the NAP has faced challenges, it remains a testament to the nation’s resolve to combat the curse of terrorism. The state’s “zero tolerance” policy towards terrorism reflects its commitment to uproot this menace, regardless of the cost.
Religious Scholars Denounce FAK’s Ideology
The Fitna-al-Khawarij (FAK) terrorists, masquerading as followers of Islam, have distorted the religion’s teachings to justify their barbaric acts. Their heinous actions have tarnished the image of Islam, a religion that promotes peace, compassion, and tolerance.
Prominent religious scholars from Pakistan and around the world have categorically declared FAK’s ideology as un-Islamic. The Paigham-e-Pakistan Fatwa, endorsed by over 1,800 scholars, unequivocally declares terrorism, armed struggle, and violence as “haram” (forbidden) in Islam.
This collective stance by religious leaders has been instrumental in countering extremist narratives and exposing the true face of terrorist organizations like FAK.
The Role of Foreign Interference
The APS attack and subsequent investigations highlighted the role of foreign intelligence agencies in supporting and financing terrorism in Pakistan. RAW and NDS have long been accused of using proxy groups to destabilize Pakistan. Evidence shows that in 2020, RAW facilitated the merger of TTP with other militant factions, aiming to intensify terrorist activities in Pakistan.
India’s involvement extends beyond TTP, with substantial financial and logistical support provided to Baloch separatists and militants operating from Afghanistan and Iran. Pakistan has repeatedly shared dossiers and evidence with the international community, exposing India’s state-sponsored terrorism. These revelations underscore the need for global accountability and support in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.
The Armed Forces: Guardians of the Nation
Pakistan’s armed forces, law enforcement agencies (LEAs), and intelligence services have played a pivotal role in combating terrorism. The recent successes in eliminating terrorists through intelligence-based operations (IBOs) are a testament to their dedication and professionalism.
In November 2024 alone, 199 terrorists were neutralized, demonstrating the state’s resolve to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. These operations reflect the unwavering commitment of Pakistan’s security forces to dismantle terrorist networks and prevent future tragedies like the APS attack.
The Legacy of the APS Martyrs
The APS martyrs are not just a part of Pakistan’s tragic history; they are a source of inspiration and a symbol of the nation’s resilience. Their sacrifices remind us of the price Pakistan has paid in its fight against terrorism. As the nation commemorates the 10th anniversary of this tragedy, it reaffirms its commitment to ensure that their sacrifices are not in vain.
Memorials and events held in honor of the APS martyrs serve as a reminder of the collective grief and determination to build a safer, more secure Pakistan. Educational institutions across the country have adopted enhanced security measures, ensuring that such an incident is never repeated.
Khawariji Fitna: A Curse on Humanity
The Khawariji terrorists, with their twisted interpretation of Islam, have been a scourge on humanity. Their acts of fasad-fil-ard (spreading chaos on Earth) contradict the very essence of Islam. These individuals, driven by hatred and supported by foreign masters, have no place in a civilized society.
Pakistan’s armed forces and LEAs, supported by the nation, remain steadfast in their resolve to obliterate this fitna. The full might of the state is being employed to eliminate these agents of chaos and destruction, ensuring that their nefarious designs are thwarted.
Looking Ahead: A United Front Against Terrorism
As Pakistan marks the 10th anniversary of the APS tragedy, it stands united in its fight against terrorism. The nation’s resilience, bolstered by the sacrifices of the martyrs, sends a clear message: terrorism in any form will not be tolerated.
The state’s commitment to implementing the NAP, coupled with the relentless efforts of security forces, reflects a determination to uproot terrorism at its roots. However, this fight requires the continued support of the international community. The global war on terror can only succeed if all nations work together to hold state sponsors of terrorism accountable.
Conclusion: Never Forget, Never Forgive
The APS attack of December 16, 2014, is a painful reminder of the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism. As the nation commemorates a decade since this tragedy, it honors the martyrs, salutes their families, and reaffirms its resolve to build a Pakistan free from the shadows of terrorism.
The people of Pakistan, along with their armed forces and LEAs, remain united in their commitment to eliminate terrorism in all its forms. The sacrifices of the APS martyrs will never be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations to uphold the values of peace, unity, and resilience.
In’Sha’Allah, the curse of terrorism will be eradicated from Pakistan, and the dream of a safe, prosperous, and united nation will be realized. Pakistan Zindabad.
