Opening Remarks
In Islamabad, Director General Inter‑Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry held a press conference where he addressed national security concerns and the role of political narratives. He said that one individual has become a serious threat to Pakistan’s stability, arguing that no person should be allowed to incite the public against the armed forces. His tone was firm, and he emphasized that the institution views the matter as critical.
Political Narrative and National Security
The DG ISPR explained that the individual in question believes “if I am not there, then nothing else matters.” He said this mindset places personal ambitions above the interests of the state and creates risks for the country’s security. According to him, the person’s politics has ended, but the narrative being promoted continues to damage the state by spreading division and mistrust.
Army’s Position
The DG ISPR clarified that the Pakistan Army does not represent any political party, sect, religion, or elite group. He stressed that the institution belongs to the people and is rooted in the middle class. “We respect all political parties. Do your politics, but keep the army away from it,” he said. He warned that no one will be allowed to create a gap between the army and the people.
Incitement
The DG ISPR accused the individual of encouraging actions that directly harm the state. He claimed that people were urged not to pay electricity bills, not to send remittances to Pakistan, and to oppose the army’s leadership. He said such actions weaken the country’s economy and security.
Social Media Evidence
Video evidence was presented during the press conference, claiming that PTI’s social media accounts are being operated from Afghanistan and India. Another video statement of Aliema Khan was shown, in which she was speaking to Indian media. The DG ISPR said Indian and Afghan media amplify anti‑army statements, showing how foreign outlets use domestic narratives against Pakistan.
Freedom of Expression and National Security
The DG ISPR acknowledged that the Constitution allows freedom of expression, but he stressed that this right does not extend to statements that compromise national security or target the armed forces. He argued that Afghan and Indian media act as facilitators of such narratives, giving them wider reach.
Mental Patient Reference
At one point, the DG ISPR used strong language while referring to PTI Chairman Imran Khan, describing him as a “mental patient.” He said that Khan’s recent tweet was picked up and spread within minutes by Afghan and Indian media outlets, which, according to him, shows how external actors amplify such statements against Pakistan. He further claimed that this narrative encourages hostility toward the armed forces, undermines national institutions, and even includes appeals to international lenders not to support Pakistan financially. He said such messaging is harmful to national security and cannot be allowed to continue.
Criticism of Statements
The DG ISPR questioned the logic of labeling anyone who meets army officials as a traitor. He asked, “If I meet students of Allama Iqbal University, are they traitors? Who are you to distribute certificates of treason?” He criticized the idea that any association with the army automatically makes someone disloyal.
Army’s Background and Sacrifice
The DG ISPR emphasized that the army is not an elite institution but one that comes from the people. He said the current Army Chief is the son of a school teacher, and many officers are sons of clerks or ordinary workers. He highlighted that soldiers sacrifice their lives in the fight against terrorism. He challenged critics to send their own children to face militants, saying that the army stands in defense of the nation.
Situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
He pointed out that terrorism is highest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). He asked why no terrorist has been executed in the province in the past five years. He criticized calls for negotiations with militants, saying that attacks like the one on Cadet College Wana show that dialogue is not possible.
Media Responsibility
The DG ISPR criticized Pakistani media for focusing on non‑issues in pursuit of ratings. He urged outlets to discuss real national challenges such as terrorism, governance, and economic stability. He said saving the country is not the army’s responsibility alone, every citizen has a role to play.
Clarifications on Governance
He clarified that the army has no role in decisions such as governor’s rule, which are political matters. He said terrorism cannot end in one day and requires political will. He emphasized the need to fully implement the National Action Plan to counter terrorism.
Historical Note
The DG ISPR said that in Pakistan’s history, the army has never spoken about an individual in such terms because no politician had acted in this way before. He alleged that the person’s politics revolves only around attacking the army and misleading the public.
Closing Remarks
The DG ISPR concluded by saying that the army is part of the state and will remain as long as Pakistan exists. He said, “Even his father cannot create a divide between the army and the people. The state is not the army; the state is the government, and the army is one of its institutions.” He reaffirmed that the armed forces will continue to defend the country against all threats.