It is a dangerous irony: the institution tasked with ensuring Pakistan’s survival finds itself under siege. Pakistan’s armed forces, long hailed as the backbone of national defense and unity, are now increasingly caught in the crosshairs of a systematic campaign to erode their credibility. In a nation already navigating complex internal and external threats, weakening the military—whether through political manipulation, propaganda, or external interference—represents a perilous gamble with Pakistan’s future.
Few institutions in Pakistan command the respect and trust that the armed forces do. Over the decades, they have stood as the nation’s first line of defense against external aggression, internal instability, and natural disasters. From fighting terrorism and insurgency through operations such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad to restoring order during political crises, the military has consistently been a stabilizing force in a country fraught with challenges. However, the military’s significance extends beyond its operational role. It is an enduring symbol of sovereignty, assuring the people of Pakistan that their territorial integrity and national interests are secure. Undermining this institution is not just a political maneuver; it is a direct threat to the state’s foundations.
While external adversaries have long targeted Pakistan’s military as a strategic obstacle, recent years have seen an alarming rise in internal forces contributing to its destabilization. This multi-pronged assault can be categorized into several fronts.
In Pakistan’s volatile political landscape, the military is often drawn into the orbit of civilian power struggles. Political factions seeking to consolidate their positions have used the armed forces as a scapegoat, accusing them of undue interference or corruption, as seen during the Vote of No Confidence in 2022. Often exaggerated and baseless, these allegations aim to create a narrative that pits the military against democratic ideals. However, the nation bears the actual cost of such tactics, as they undermine an institution that thrives on public trust and unity.
The domestic and international media play a pivotal role in shaping perceptions. Unfortunately, sensationalism and bias have crept into the reporting on Pakistan’s military. Selective coverage and unverified allegations dominate the discourse, leaving little room for nuanced understanding. This not only fuels public distrust but also provides fodder for hostile forces seeking to exploit divisions within Pakistan. When the media becomes a vehicle for propaganda rather than constructive dialogue, it jeopardizes national unity.
Pakistan’s strategic location and its military’s prominence in the region have made it a target for external adversaries. Nations that perceive Pakistan’s military as a hindrance to their regional ambitions have employed covert tactics to weaken its standing. Whether through financial support to proxy groups like those operating in Balochistan, disinformation campaigns targeting Pakistan’s nuclear program, or diplomatic isolation such as pressures exerted during the FATF proceedings, these forces aim to erode the military’s capability and credibility.
The rise of social media has democratized information but also weaponized misinformation. Platforms often amplify anti-military rhetoric, much of it based on distorted or incomplete narratives, as evidenced by viral social media campaigns alleging military overreach without substantive evidence. Younger generations, particularly, are exposed to a barrage of content that fosters disillusionment with state institutions, including the armed forces. While legitimate concerns should be addressed, this unchecked spread of negativity risks alienating the demographic the military must inspire and protect.
The consequences of undermining Pakistan’s armed forces are far-reaching and devastating, as illustrated by the fallout from the 1971 crisis, where forieng international intervention led to the eventual secession of East Pakistan. The most immediate and pressing concern is national security. In a region fraught with external aggression, internal insurgencies, and terrorism, a distracted or demoralized military leaves Pakistan vulnerable to existential threats. Beyond the battlefield, the erosion of military credibility has social, political, and economic implications. A divided populace and weakened defense apparatus embolden extremist groups and criminal networks. Diplomatic relations also suffer, as international partners view instability within Pakistan’s military as a sign of broader national fragility. Economically, insecurity deters foreign investment, disrupts trade, and diverts resources away from development toward managing crises.
Moreover, the military’s internal cohesion is at risk. Trust and morale are the bedrock of any armed force. Whether through political rhetoric or media campaigns, constant defamation chips away at these pillars. Without unity and discipline, the military’s operational effectiveness is compromised, further exacerbating national vulnerabilities.
If Pakistan is to safeguard its future, it must first safeguard its military. This requires a multi-dimensional approach. The relationship between civilian leadership and the armed forces must be rooted in mutual respect and collaboration. Transparent communication and clearly defined roles can prevent misunderstandings and foster unity of purpose. The government must resist the temptation to politicize the military, while the armed forces must remain focused on their constitutional mandate.
Media outlets must prioritize national unity over sensationalism. Constructive criticism is essential in a democracy, but it should be rooted in facts and aimed at improvement rather than defamation. Media regulators and journalistic bodies should enforce ethical standards to ensure balanced and accurate reporting on national security matters. The public, especially the youth, must be educated about the military’s role in national security. Outreach programs, documentaries, and public forums can help dispel myths and foster a sense of pride in the armed forces. Social media campaigns should focus on countering misinformation with facts and promoting positive narratives.
Pakistan’s armed forces are not just an institution but the linchpin of the nation’s survival. Efforts to weaken them, deliberate or inadvertent, only destabilize the country and empower its adversaries. At a time when Pakistan faces multifaceted challenges, it is imperative to rally behind the military, ensuring that it remains a disciplined, united, and trusted force. The stakes are too high for complacency. Strengthening the armed forces’ integrity and public trust is not just a matter of national pride but national survival. Only through collective resolve can Pakistan secure its military and, by extension, its future.
