Daily Times Editorials 23rd August 2026

Terror Trail

Security forces have reported killing 49 militants in intelligence-based operations in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), according to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The operations were carried out as part of the country’s ongoing counterterrorism campaign. ISPR said the aim was to stop militant groups from disturbing peace and stability in Pakistan.

According to the military, several operations were conducted in Bannu, North Waziristan, Orakzai and Khyber in KP. ISPR said 12 militants linked to what the state calls Fitna al-Khawarij were killed during these operations.

The military described the group as being supported by India. In Balochistan, security forces killed another 37 militants linked to what the state calls Fitna al-Hindustan. Security forces also recovered weapons, explosives and equipment used for remote-controlled detonations, according to ISPR. The recovered material was later destroyed.Language Resources

The military said its forces remained committed to protecting the country and would continue operations against militant groups. Security forces are also carrying out sanitisation operations in the areas where militants are believed to be hiding.

These operations are aimed at finding any remaining militants and preventing further attacks. The latest operations highlight the continuing security challenge in both Balochistan and K-P.

While the government says military action is necessary to stop terrorism, lasting peace will also require efforts to address the wider political, economic and social problems affecting these regions.

ISPR said the counterterrorism campaign would continue until the threat of terrorism was eliminated. For ordinary citizens, the key issue is whether these operations can translate into lasting security and peace, allowing people in the affected areas to return to normal life. *

Digital Dreams

The government’s plan to use artificial intelligence (AI) and modern digital systems to improve Pakistan’s trade sector is a welcome step. But as the country moves towards an AI-powered economy, it must also ensure that technology is used responsibly, safely and ethically.

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan recently held meetings with officials from the Pakistan Digital Authority and Sky47 to discuss plans for a more secure and integrated digital system for trade.

The main idea is to bring Pakistan’s trade-related data together and make it easier for authorised officials, exporters and businesses to use. The Commerce Ministry has information on thousands of products, exporters, international markets, trade organisations and Pakistan’s trade officers working in more than 55 countries.

The minister rightly described this information as a national asset. Such data can help the government understand markets, identify new export opportunities and make better decisions.Geographic Reference

The meetings also discussed a sovereign cloud and stronger data centres inside Pakistan. These systems could improve data security, reduce dependence on scattered facilities and provide better support for growing AI needs.

However, digital transformation should not become a race to adopt technology without proper safeguards. AI can improve decision-making, but it can also create serious risks if used without clear rules.

The government should establish strong ethical standards for the use of AI, including protection of personal data, transparency in automated decisions, human oversight and clear responsibility when AI systems make mistakes.

AI should assist public officials, not replace accountability. Trade policies affecting businesses and individuals should not be based blindly on algorithms or incomplete data.

Pakistan needs to embrace AI, cloud computing and digital infrastructure. But technological progress will be meaningful only when it is accompanied by privacy, security, transparency and ethics. *