By The South Asia Times

Peshawar, Pakistan — Pakistan on Monday  marked the 10th anniversary of the Army Public School (APS) massacre in Peshawar, one of the darkest chapters in the nation’s history.

On December 16, 2014, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) militants stormed the school, killing 147 people, including 132 children, in an attack that shocked the world and united Pakistan in grief.

Memorial ceremonies were held across the country to honor the victims, with the main event taking place at the APS campus in Peshawar. Families of the victims, survivors, military officials, and government representatives gathered to pay tribute to those who lost their lives.

Candles were lit, prayers were offered, and emotional speeches were delivered, reflecting on the enduring pain and resilience of the affected families.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif  called the attack "a national tragedy that reshaped Pakistan's resolve against terrorism." In a statement, he pledged continued support for counter-terrorism efforts and acknowledged the sacrifices of the victims and their families.

The attack spurred Pakistan to launch a comprehensive military operation against militant groups and adopt the National Action Plan, a counter-terrorism strategy aimed at dismantling extremist networks. While significant progress has been made, concerns over resurgent militancy in recent months have reignited fears among citizens.

“Today, we remember not only the innocent lives lost but also the strength and unity of our nation in the face of unspeakable tragedy,” said a survivor during the ceremony. “We owe it to the children of Pakistan to ensure such horrors never happen again.”

The APS massacre remains a somber reminder of the cost of extremism and a rallying point for Pakistan’s commitment to fighting terrorism.