Independent Report
Karachi, 20 November 2025:
The battle for Pakistan’s security is no longer confined to borders; it is now taking place inside smartphones and digital platforms. This was the central message delivered by DG ISPR, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, during an engagement with students and faculty at Dow University of Health Sciences.
Described as a strategic move beyond conventional military outreach, the General emphasized that the truth is today’s most powerful weapon. He encouraged students to embrace critical thinking and verify information before spreading it, highlighting that misinformation is now a key front in Pakistan’s Marka-e-Haq (Battle for Truth).
Reflecting on Pakistan’s historical resilience and operational triumphs—such as Operation Swift Retort in February 2019—Lt. Gen. Chaudhry stressed that while physical defense remains strong, adversaries have shifted to 5th-Generation warfare, spreading disinformation to divide and demoralize citizens.
Through these high-level discussions, the DG ISPR conveyed that responsible citizenship is a critical element of national defense. Fact-checking forwarded messages, rejecting fake news, and promoting informed discourse are now acts of patriotism, creating a “civilian vanguard” that complements military strength.
The dialogue resonated strongly with students, who pledged to become the nation’s “ultimate ad-blockers” against toxic misinformation. Lt. Gen. Chaudhry’s engagement underlined that defending the truth is as important as defending borders, creating a partnership between the armed forces and the youth—a living Fortress of Pakistan.
By strengthening critical thinking, the initiative not only enhances security but also fosters social cohesion and national trust, fortifying Pakistan against psychological and digital attacks.
