Ejaz Haider - Senior Journalist/Analyst

The benchmarks of success and failure used in a conventional war cannot be applied to irregular war, which subsumes several categories of armed conflict and almost invariably is fought among the people. Zarb-i-Azb is a limited operation meant to physically dominate the Tochi Valley and the main towns and arteries.

How successful the operation will be in terms of establishing the state's writ will, therefore, depend on how effectively and how soon can the area be transferred to the civilian authorities within the existing administrative arrangements that govern FATA. Whether that governance framework is adequate or relevant is another important question.

Going by the past experience of military operations, as also case studies of such conflicts in other parts of the world, the post-operation phases -- build and transfer -- will be a tough call and will depend on several other factors, including the effective and coordinated use of non-kinetic means.

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...
Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...