Field Marshal Munir Meets Troops in Zhob on Eid Amid Security Resolve
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Staff, visited Zhob District in Balochistan on Wednesday to spend Eid al-Adha with troops deployed on Pakistan’s western frontiers, according to the military’s media wing.
The visit placed the army chief among officers and soldiers serving in a sensitive border region at a time when Pakistan continues to face security challenges linked to militancy, cross-border threats and attacks on civilians and security personnel.
The Inter-Services Public Relations said the day began with Eid prayers, followed by special supplications for Pakistan’s peace, stability and prosperity. Prayers were also offered for martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of the country.
During his interaction with troops, Field Marshal Munir conveyed Eid greetings and praised their discipline, operational readiness and vigilance. He commended the personnel for remaining alert in difficult conditions and for continuing their duties away from their families during the religious occasion.
The military statement also linked the visit to Pakistan’s wider counterterrorism posture in Balochistan. Referring to the recent terrorist incident in Quetta, the army chief said such attacks could not weaken the resolve of the armed forces or the people of Pakistan.
ISPR said the field marshal accused hostile networks and their facilitators of attempting to destabilise the country, while reaffirming that security forces, law enforcement agencies and local communities in Balochistan would continue to act jointly against those involved in terrorism.
Balochistan has remained a major focus of Pakistan’s internal security policy because of its strategic location, long borders, mineral resources and recurring militant violence. Districts such as Zhob are closely watched due to their proximity to western routes and the operational demands placed on troops stationed there.
The army chief also laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-e-Shuhada, paying tribute to soldiers who embraced martyrdom in the line of duty. His presence at the memorial underscored the military’s emphasis on sacrifice, remembrance and morale during Eid.
The visit is likely to be read as both a symbolic gesture and an operational message. For troops deployed in high-pressure areas, direct engagement from senior command can reinforce morale, while for the public it signals continuity in the state’s security response.
In the coming days, the focus will remain on follow-up operations, intelligence coordination and efforts to prevent further violence in Balochistan. The military has indicated that action against facilitators, planners and perpetrators of attacks will remain a priority.