The unprovoked attack by Afghan forces on Pakistani border posts in the Upper Kurram district serves as a stark reminder of deepening nexus between Afghan government and TTP, the terrorist outfit that poses a grave threat to regional peace and security. On Saturday morning, Afghan forces launched an assault on Pakistani posts in Ghozgarhi, MathaSangar, KotRagha, and Tari Mengal, employing both light and heavy weaponry. While Pakistani forces retaliated effectively, inflicting heavy losses on the Afghan side, this attack, coupled with a failed infiltration attempt by militants the night before is an act of aggression that Pakistan cannot ignore.
The fact that Afghan forces opened fire in tandem with militants, who were attempting to infiltrate Pakistan from Afghan-controlled posts, leaves no room for doubt that current Afghan regime is either complicit in or directly facilitating the activities of terrorist groups. This behaviour is entirely unacceptable. Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability is undeniable. Our Armed Forces, with their impeccable capabilities, have always demonstrated immense resilience in defending the country yet broader issue here is not simply military retaliation. It is the blatant violation of international norms by Afghan government, which continues to harbour and support militant groups that perpetuate violence on Pakistani soil. Pakistan has repeatedly raised its concerns at global forums about the use of Afghan soil by militants, including the TTP, to orchestrate cross-border terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Furthermore, Pakistan has remained a steadfast supporter of the Afghan people, hosting millions of Afghan refugees over past several decades. It is Pakistan that has continuously urged the international community to support Afghanistan in rebuilding its war-torn nation. And yet, in a deplorable act, Afghan government chose to target the very country that has shown compassion and support to its people. This deeply hypocritical behaviour deserves unequivocal condemnation. Fact of the matter is that Afghanistan itself is at risk of descending into chaos if these terror groups are allowed to operate with impunity. Rather than directing attacks at Pakistan, the Afghan government should take decisive action against these militant groups, which pose a threat not only to Pakistan but also to peace and stability of Afghanistan itself. It is also crucial for Afghan leaders to come to the table and work with Pakistan to formulate concrete actions against the TTP and other militant groups.
