MODERN states, whether democratic, semi-democratic or autocratic, have created multiple institutions to not only run day-to-day affairs of the state efficiently but to also respond to crises and multiple threats to its safety and security and that of its citizens.

For example, disaster management authorities have emerged as specialised institutions primarily responsible for managing natural calamities such earthquakes, floods and pandemics. Apex committees have been created in Pakistan both at the federal and provincial levels headed by the prime minister and chief ministers respectively and including the senior-most military commanders of the relevant territory to take stock of the progress against terrorism, specifically the implementation of the National Action Plan. Meanwhile, the National Counter Terrorism Authority and CT departments serve as planning and operational arms. Pakistan has also created an elaborate security architecture consisting of the National Security Committee (NSC), headed by the prime minister and assisted by the National Security Division, as its administrative and analytical secretariat.

On another plane, the Senate, National Assembly and each of the provincial assemblies independently have a range of standing committees to review the performance of the executive and to exercise oversight on the policies and actions of government institutions falling under their jurisdiction.

Hostilities in our neighbourhood began on Feb 28 when the US and Israel attacked Iran, which not only retaliated against the former two states but........

© Dawn