Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is once again witnessing a dangerous resurgence of terrorism that threatens not only the peace of the province but also the stability and future of Pakistan. The recent tragic explosion in Norang, Lakki Marwat, where according to initial reports 7 to 10 people lost their lives while nearly 18 to 30 others were injured — including police personnel, women, and children — has once again exposed the fragile security situation in the region. Only days earlier, deadly attacks in Bannu targeted police checkpoints, resulting in the martyrdom of several brave police officers, while another incident involving the destruction of a bridge through explosives highlighted the increasing boldness and operational capability of terrorist networks.
These incidents are not isolated acts of violence.

They represent a larger and deeply worrying pattern that signals the re-emergence of militant activities across several districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank, Dera Ismail Khan, North and South Waziristan. The growing frequency of attacks on security personnel, public infrastructure, and civilians demonstrates that terrorist groups are once again attempting to spread fear, weaken state authority, and destabilize the region.
Pakistan has suffered immensely from terrorism over the last two decades.

The nation still carries painful memories of countless tragedies, including the horrific Army Public School attack in Peshawar in 2014, where more than 140 innocent people, mostly children, were brutally martyred. Similarly, attacks on mosques, markets, schools, hospitals, and security installations have repeatedly shaken the country. Thousands of police officers, soldiers, teachers, health workers, and ordinary citizens have sacrificed their lives in the fight against terrorism.
Pakistan has lost more than 80,000 lives due to terrorism and related violence, while the country’s economic losses have exceeded 150 billion US dollars. Terrorism has severely damaged the economy by discouraging investment, weakening tourism, slowing industrial growth, and increasing security expenditures. Entire regions have suffered displacement, destruction of businesses, closure of schools, and rising unemployment.

The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have shown extraordinary courage and resilience despite years of suffering. However, the repeated attacks are once again creating fear, uncertainty, and psychological trauma among ordinary citizens. Terrorism does not only kill people; it destroys confidence, weakens hope, and disrupts the normal fabric of society.

Another deeply concerning aspect that requires serious attention is the timing and coordination of these sudden terrorist attacks. Many of these incidents occur at highly sensitive moments, targeting crowded public areas, security checkpoints, religious gatherings, or key infrastructure to maximize damage and panic. This pattern demands serious review by law enforcement and intelligence agencies regarding possible security gaps, intelligence failures, and militant operational planning. Preventive intelligence, surveillance systems, and rapid threat response mechanisms must be strengthened to neutralize such threats before they materialize.

Such a series of continuous terrorist attacks is extremely lethal for the already fragile and trembling economy of Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The province, which has already suffered from years of instability, now faces further setbacks as insecurity discourages investment, disrupts local business activities, and increases the cost of governance and security. Tourism, trade, transport, and small-scale industries are directly affected, while public confidence in economic stability continues to decline. In such an environment, sustainable development becomes increasingly difficult, and the economic burden ultimately falls on the common citizen who is already struggling with inflation and unemployment.

Terrorism is not merely a security challenge; it is also a severe economic and social threat. No nation can progress where fear dominates public life. When law and order deteriorate, investment declines, industries suffer, development projects slow down, and unemployment rises. Ultimately, the common citizen bears the heaviest burden of insecurity and instability.

The resurgence of terrorism also poses a serious threat to Pakistan’s international image and internal cohesion. Terrorist organizations exploit poverty, unemployment, frustration, and lack of opportunity to mislead vulnerable youth toward extremism. Without timely and decisive action, the consequences may further endanger national unity, peace, and development.
The present situation demands strong unity of the nation. The nation must stand firmly behind its security agencies, who are continuously laying down their lives and making immense sacrifices for the security of the country and its people.

In this regard, the Pakistan Armed Forces are highly appreciated for their unwavering commitment, professionalism, and sacrifices in maintaining law and order and defending the sovereignty of Pakistan. Their efforts, along with those of police and other law enforcement agencies, form the backbone of national security and stability.

At the same time, government institutions, political leadership, religious scholars, media, and civil society must work together with a clear and coordinated strategy. Intelligence sharing, border management, police reforms, modern surveillance, and swift counterterrorism operations are essential for restoring peace.

Long-term stability also requires addressing root causes such as poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and social injustice. Investment in education, skills development, and youth opportunities is crucial to prevent radicalization and build a peaceful society.

Pakistan has already paid a very heavy price in the war against terrorism. The sacrifices of our armed forces, police, and civilians must never be forgotten.
Their courage remains a symbol of national resilience.
The people of Pakistan deserve peace, stability, and a secure future.

Terrorism must not be allowed to dictate the destiny of this nation.
Through unity, strong governance, and collective national resolve, Pakistan can overcome this challenge.

We pray that Almighty Allah grants the martyrs the highest ranks in Jannah, blesses the injured with quick recovery, gives strength to bereaved families, and grants lasting peace to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the entire country. Ameen.

Dr. Alamdar Hussain Malik
Advisor Veterinary Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Swat
Former Financial Advisor, Finance Division, Government of Pakistan