Web Desk: Pakistan’s military has ruled out any role in disarming Hamas or joining the International Stabilisation Force, while reaffirming its support for a negotiated solution to the Palestinian issue, journalists were told during a high-level security briefing, according to journalist Mansoor Ali Khan.
Khan said around 40 journalists and YouTubers attended the closed-door briefing, which covered domestic security, regional geopolitics and Pakistan’s foreign policy posture.
According to Mansoor Ali Khan, officials told participants that there is no dispute that genocide has taken place in Palestine. They said the conflict could be addressed either through military force or negotiations, and Pakistan has chosen to support dialogue by participating in the proposed Board of Peace.
Officials clarified that the decision on whether the issue should be debated in parliament rests solely with the federal government and that state institutions have no role in that determination.
During the briefing, officials said the Pakistan Army would take part in humanitarian and welfare activities under the Board of Peace but would not participate in any action against Hamas or efforts to disarm the group.
They also confirmed that Pakistan is not part of the International Stabilisation Force.
Responding to a question about the ongoing operation in Tirah, officials referred to statements by Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, who said the operation was being conducted with the consent of the provincial government. Officials said Chaudhry’s remarks should be taken at face value.
The briefing also stressed that political will is essential to eliminate terrorism. Officials said counterterrorism efforts cannot succeed without it, adding that progress in Balochistan reflects the presence of such political commitment.
Addressing questions about a defense agreement between the United Arab Emirates and India, officials said bilateral agreements do not automatically turn one country into an adversary. They added that the agreement does not harm Pakistan’s interests.
Officials also reiterated that decisions related to the Board of Peace and parliamentary debate fall under the authority of the political leadership, stressing the institution’s commitment to democratic principles.
Journalists were told that during heightened Pakistan-India tensions last May, the government determined the country’s response. Officials said Pakistan would respond forcefully if attacked.
Officials also said the institution believes in engaging with all viewpoints and answering questions from individuals holding diverse perspectives.
Responding to questions about political affiliations, officials said the institution has no ties to any political party and does not favor or oppose any group. They said security-related questions would receive firm responses, while political decisions remain the responsibility of elected leaders.
Regarding a press conference held against the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister, officials said disagreements over security policies and counterterrorism approaches require clarification and response.
Khan said journalists from across the political spectrum attended the briefing, including supporters and critics of various parties. Participants included prominent television anchors, analysts and digital content creators.
The briefing, according to Khan, aimed to address misconceptions, outline policy positions and reinforce the institution’s stated commitment to democracy and civilian decision-making.
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