By 
17-12-2024
Amna Hafeez
Pakistan Researcher,
Global Human Rights Defence.
In the most devastating terror attack in the country’s history that took place on December 16th, 2014, 147 lives were lost, including 132 schoolchildren, when heavily armed terrorists launched an assault on the Army Public School building.
President Asif Ali Zardari today reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and extremism. He stressed that December 16th serves as a reminder for the nation to unite against terrorism and intensify efforts to eliminate this threat.
Mr. Zardari condemned the brutal attack on the APS, highlighting the senseless killing of citizens, including children, and the targeting of teachers. He described the attack as cruel and inhumane, emphasising that it revealed the terrorists’ goal to sow chaos. He offered his condolences to the victims’ families and vowed that the nation would not allow the terrorists to achieve their objectives.
The president also noted that the APS tragedy united the nation against terrorism, with political leaders making sacrifices in the war against terror. He paid tribute to the brave soldiers, security forces, and citizens and stressed the need for international collaboration to eradicate terrorism.
On the other hand, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, stated that the entire nation stands strong against terrorists, emphasising that the grief from the APS tragedy remains even after 10 years. He condemned the terrorists as “ruthless” and emphasised that the children were denied their future. The prime minister assured that the nation would strive to create a safer Pakistan, where justice prevails and the victims’ memory remains honored. He stated: “Let us reaffirm our commitment to building a safer, more secure Pakistan, where no innocent will be harmed, no child will have to live in fear, injustice will be punished and punished severely.”
Sources and further readings:
Dawn. (December 16, 2024). As nation marks a decade since APS tragedy, leaders reaffirm resolve to root out terrorism. Dawn. <As nation marks a decade since APS tragedy, leaders reaffirm resolve to root out terrorism – Pakistan – DAWN.COM> Accessed 17 December, 2024.
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