Pakistan, Jan. 16 -- This is not freedom of expression. It is a cyber war. Under the pretext of free speech, a systematic campaign has been launched against Pakistan's state and society. Such a war cannot be wished away or managed through ambiguity. It must be confronted with clarity, resolve and firmness.

The debate in Pakistan moved beyond free expression a long time ago. What exists today is a sustained information assault. It is organised. It is deliberate. And it is aimed squarely at Pakistan's national interests.

When Pakistani soldiers are martyred, their sacrifice is mocked. When Pakistan faces hostility from India, its defensive capability is ridiculed. On national days, the very idea of Pakistan is reduced to cheap jokes. When...