Operation Radd-ul-Fassad and Beyond: A Strategic Assessment of Pakistan’s Counter-Terrorism Efforts (2017–2020)

This article provides a critical evaluation of Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategy from 2017 to 2020, with a primary focus on Operation Radd-ul-Fassad. Initiated in response to persistent militant threats, the operation sought to dismantle terrorist networks, secure the nation’s borders, and eliminate extremist elements through coordinated military and civilian efforts. The study examines key operations such as Khyber IV in Rajgal Valley, highlighting their tactical importance, and assesses major political developments, including the 2018 merger of FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the repeal of the FCR. Emphasis is also placed on the Pak-Afghan border fencing initiative, construction of security forts, and measures to curb cross-border smuggling of arms and narcotics. Together, these initiatives contributed to a significant reduction in terrorist activities and an improvement in Pakistan’s GTI ranking. The article concludes that the convergence of military operations, policy reforms, and border control measures strengthened Pakistan’s internal security and regional stability.