Opposition plans conference on security following terrorism rise

The opposition alliance in Pakistan, called Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), has decided to hold an all-parties conference (APC) on the country's security situation. This announcement comes a day after they skipped a government meeting focused on national security. The APC is planned for after Eidul Fitr. The decision was made during a leadership meeting led by TTAP's head, Mahmood Khan Achakzai. Key opposition figures attended, including leaders from various parties. They approved the structure of TTAP and set up several subcommittees to aid in their efforts, including planning the upcoming APC. During the meeting, they discussed the political situation in Pakistan, especially issues affecting Balochistan. Leaders stressed that a lasting solution to terrorism in regions like Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan cannot be achieved through force alone. They also expressed concerns over injustices related to water distribution in Sindh. TTAP leaders confirmed their boycott of the parliamentary National Security Committee. They criticized the government's handling of national security, particularly excluding PTI founder Imran Khan from discussions. They emphasized the importance of dialogue with Afghanistan, citing historical ties and potential trade benefits. This opposition meeting followed a closed-door session where government officials, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and military leaders, discussed recent rising terrorism in Pakistan. Notably, they addressed a recent terrorist attack on a passenger train in Balochistan, where several were killed and many taken hostage. The security forces managed to neutralize the attackers and rescue the hostages.