ISLAMABAD: A contentious session of the National Assembly unfolded on Sunday as the government and opposition remained at odds over a new military operation named Azm-e-Istehkam aimed at eliminating militancy.

Members of the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) expressed dissatisfaction, claiming they were not consulted about the operation. In response, the government assured them that their concerns would be addressed.

The session, originally focused on budget discussions, deviated to heated exchanges about the military operation, leading to disruption from the opposition benches.

PTI lawmakers staged a one-hour walkout before returning. During their return, PTI leaders addressed the Assembly, accompanied by chants demanding an end to the operation and advocating for peace.

The operation, announced by the Shehbaz Sharif-led government on Saturday, vows comprehensive use of national resources, including military, diplomatic, and legislative measures, to intensify efforts against militants.

Approval for the operation was granted by the Central Apex Committee on National Action Plan (NAP), attended by top officials from all provinces, including PTI-supported Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.

The decision comes amidst a significant increase in terrorist attacks in Pakistan in recent months, resulting in numerous civilian and security personnel casualties. The Pakistani government has consistently alleged that neighboring nations are fostering terrorism, repeatedly urging Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government.