THE threat of terrorism emanating from Afghan soil is a matter of serious concern for Pakistan. The attack on Bannu Cantonment, which tragically resulted in the martyrdom of eight brave security personnel, starkly highlights the threat that terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan pose to Pakistan’s security and regional stability. This is a somber reminder of the urgent need for action. As articulated by Foreign Office, Bannu incident is not an isolated event but rather a continuation of a disturbing pattern where groups like the Hafiz Gul Bahadur faction exploit Afghan territory to launch heinous attacks against Pakistan.
The demand for “immediate, robust and effective action” against the perpetrators, though timely and necessary, echoes previous calls made by Pakistan after other tragic incidents, such as the attack on Chinese nationals in Dasu. Unfortunately, these pleas have largely gone unheeded by the interim Afghan Government. Despite repeated assurances, the Afghan authorities have demonstrated a concerning lack of seriousness in addressing the threats posed by these terrorist elements. Rather the statements coming from the Afghan side amount to further straining the bilateral ties between the two neighbors. The presence of the terror groups is a ticking time bomb, with potential repercussions that could destabilize Afghanistan itself. In the light of these challenges, it is important for us to engage more proactively with the Afghan authorities. Diplomatic efforts should extend beyond direct negotiations, involving key regional players like China and Central Asian nations. By building a coalition that emphasizes the need for decisive action against terrorism, Pakistan can apply collective pressure on Afghanistan to take meaningful steps against these threats. Taking action against terrorists is ultimately in the Afghan authorities’ own best interest, as it could pave the way for international recognition. By demonstrating a commitment to combating terrorism, the Afghan Government can foster trust and legitimacy on the global stage.
