Unless the root causes of terrorism are addressed, exterminating terrorists in large numbers may not yield the desired end state.

Root cause treatment is easier said than done. But it is the only remedy that works. “Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defences of peace must be constructed,” says the preamble of the UNESCO constitution. Conflict is a state of mind, endemic in human nature and perennial in recorded history. It becomes a concern only when a violence threshold is crossed and the predominant way of life is threatened. As long as the human mind remains agitated, it will not let others in society stay peaceful. Therefore, all conflict-resolution efforts must essentially target the human mind. Because the mind is the ultimate target leading to the breaking of the will to fight, it is also the ultimate weapon that crafts superior strategy to influence an opponent’s mind.

PM congratulates nation on Pakistan’s victory against Netherlands in T20 World Cup opener

Insurgency and terrorism have peaked again in the country, especially in Balochistan. Counter-terrorism responses by LEAs have surged. The involvement of foreign hands is evident. It will be a protracted struggle. It is therefore important to deal with the root causes first and foremost. Because no matter how many mosquitoes are swatted, the menace will only be........

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