Dear Editor,
The Fifth Generation War is an information and disinformation war, fought through various social media platforms using propaganda tools and AI to tarnish the reputation of institutions and heads of state. In the digital age, the spread of fake news has created confusion and disturbed the masses. Pakistan's defense system remains strong and undefeatable, as we are a responsible, peace-loving nuclear power. However, our enemies continue to fuel instability by spreading false narratives, especially amidst the ongoing political crisis.
As Martin Luther King Jr. said, "Science has excelled to guide missiles, but misguided humans." In this context, AI and fake news are being weaponized as propaganda against our military institution. These elements can be seen as digital terrorists, and that is why the government has rightly established the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA). This initiative will help counter fake news and hold accountable those who misuse social media platforms to harm national interests.
Opposition parties have used social media to malign national institutions, creating confusion without regard for the facts. However, the people of Pakistan are educated and well-informed. They are capable of discerning fake news aimed at undermining the Army and other state institutions.
In this era of Fifth Generation Warfare, the government should create a digital platform for fact-checking and block accounts operating from abroad. Media literacy should also be enhanced, and lessons on the current media war should be included in the educational syllabus to help people discern the truth in this digital age of misinformation.
The people of Pakistan stand united with their institutions, and these institutions will undoubtedly counter this information war and apprehend those involved. PEMRA, PTA, DRPA, the Cyber Crime Wing, and other IT-related departments should work together to address these challenges effectively.

Ghulam Mustafa Shah Bukhari
Information Officer, Hyderabad Sindh