Lawmakers hail security forces’ sacrifices on APS anniversary

RAWALPINDI: On the 11th anniversary of the Army Public School tragedy, parliamentarians paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies, saying their sacrifices were central to defeating terrorism, restoring stability and safeguarding national security.

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi said the December 16 attack united the nation with a shared resolve against extremism. He said Pakistan’s armed forces played a decisive role in dismantling terrorist networks and improving the country’s security landscape. The sacrifices of the martyrs, he added, remain a reminder of the need for steadfast resistance against terrorism.

Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Danyal Chaudhry said the APS attack was not merely an assault on a school but a direct strike against humanity, peace and education. He praised the swift and courageous response of the armed forces, saying their professionalism and commitment earned them national and international recognition in preserving peace.

MNA Malik Abrar Ahmad said the blood of the martyrs strengthened the country’s defence and reinforced national unity. He said the armed forces made an indelible contribution to the fight against terrorism, adding that December 16 symbolises collective patience, sacrifice and resolve.

Engineer Qamar-ul-Islam Raja, MNA, said the martyrdom of innocent children plunged the entire nation into grief. He noted that despite immense challenges, the Pakistan Army and security institutions continued to uphold peace and stability across the country.

MPAs Malik Iftikhar Ahmad and Malik Mansoor Afsar highlighted the unity displayed by the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and the public during the war on terror. They said the consistent support of security forces was essential in eliminating terrorism and protecting the country from internal and external threats.

Chaudhry Naeem Ijaz, MPA, said December 16 proved that the nation could not be divided by violence. He said the armed forces defeated terrorists through determination and sacrifice, adding that the struggle would continue until terrorism is fully eradicated.

Raja Hanif, MPA, said the APS tragedy exposed Pakistan’s pain to the world. He said the armed forces rendered historic services in defending the homeland and maintaining peace.

Ziaullah Shah, MPA, described the APS attack as a crime against humanity, saying the armed forces and security institutions stood shoulder to shoulder with the people throughout the war against terrorism.

Pakistan Peoples Party leader Aamir Fida Paracha said the trauma of December 16 remained deeply etched in national memory. He said Pakistan’s armed forces strengthened national cohesion in the face of terrorism and continued to lead a collective struggle for peace, tolerance and stability.