Sharif Lauds Army Behind Crisis
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday spoke to the country’s parliament to update lawmakers on India’s recent Operation Sindoor, an operation aimed at targeting terror camps within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. But his address was filled with conflicting words that indicated Pakistan’s seeming befuddlement and overdependence on propaganda to cope with local opinions.
Sharif complimented the military command for “restoring the country’s respect,” even though it is commonly perceived that the policies and tacit support of the Pakistani Army towards anti-India militant outfits ignited the scenario. The Pakistan Army’s role in supporting terror organizations has been a contentious issue for a long time, and according to many, its activities culminated in the Indian airstrikes directly.
Disputes Over Indian Violation of Airspace
Adding to the contradiction, Sharif appeared uncertain about the details of the Indian Air Force’s operations. Whereas the Pakistani army maintains Indian jets never crossed the border, Sharif asserted that the Pakistan Army jammed their communications and “forced them to withdraw.” This contradiction begs the question: if Indian planes never entered Pakistani air space, from where were they allegedly pushed back?
Misinformation Campaign Intensifies
As for Sharif’s assertions that the Pakistan Army was “completely prepared,” India is said to have hit nine terror targets with precision. Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, confirmed the operation was conducted perfectly, putting Pakistan off its guard. The Pakistani media and social networks meanwhile have been doing the rounds on old videos and pictures in an apparent bid to deceive the general public.
Sharif’s contradictory speech seems more intended to defend his home public image than present a fact-based report bemoaning the increasing dependence on disinformation as a tool for influencing public perceptions in Pakistan.
