THE repatriation of the body of an Afghan national, Muhammad Khan Ahmedkhel, involved in terrorist activities, further underscores a troubling reality: Afghan soil continues to serve as a breeding ground for terrorists targeting Pakistan. Killed during an intelligence-based operation in the Zhob region, Ahmedkhel was linked to the terrorist elements operating across the border and his presence in Pakistan highlights the ongoing terrorism emanating from Afghanistan that directly threatens our security.
Pakistan has long voiced its concerns regarding the use of Afghan territory by terrorist groups, particularly TTP. The UN Security Council has also acknowledged this in its report, which highlights the growing collaboration between the TTP and Afghan Taliban in launching cross-border attacks, particularly targeting Pakistani military posts. Pakistan has always maintained a policy of seeking cordial and peaceful relations with Afghanistan and has consistently raised the humanitarian plight of the Afghan people on the international stage, particularly amidst the crisis that followed the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan. However, despite these efforts, Afghanistan’s response has been disappointing. The interim Afghan government’s continued provision of safe havens to militants targeting Pakistan undermines regional stability. This is not only detrimental to Pakistan but also to Afghanistan itself. Afghanistan is already reeling from a dire economic crisis and humanitarian challenges. Continued harbouring of terrorist groups not only isolates Afghanistan from its neighbours but also makes the country an unattractive destination for international investment and support. The international community, including Pakistan, China and the Central Asian countries, is in a position to assist Afghanistan in overcoming its challenges. However, Afghanistan must demonstrate the political will and determination to combat terrorism on its soil. Without decisive action against these terror outfits, Afghanistan risks further alienating itself from the global community and exacerbating its internal crises. It is crucial for the interim Afghan government to act decisively against terror groups, dismantling their networks and ensuring that Afghanistan does not remain a source of cross-border terrorism. The path toward peace and stability in Afghanistan is not through alliances with terrorist groups but through concerted efforts to tackle terrorism.
