PAKISTAN remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining friendly relations with Afghanistan. The country has never harboured hostility toward the Afghan people or its forces, and its recent military actions should be viewed in this context. Rather than targeting Afghanistan, Pakistan has acted solely in self-defence, ensuring the safety of its citizens and sovereignty against escalating terrorist threats.
Pakistan expects reciprocity from the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) in countering the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which continues cross-border attacks despite diplomatic efforts. In response to escalating threats, Pakistan conducted strategic military operations along the border, targeting TTP militants while avoiding harm to Afghan civilians or forces, ensuring national security through measured, defensive actions.
The individuals targeted in these military operations were directly involved in celebrating the martyrdom of 16 Pakistani soldiers who had recently fallen victim to a TTP assault. Such actions by TTP members not only glorify terrorism but also embolden further attacks against Pakistan’s armed forces and innocent citizens. Allowing such elements to operate unchecked is a grave security risk, one that Pakistan can no longer afford to ignore. Pakistan’s response has been proportional and necessary, aimed at dismantling terrorist networks that threaten regional stability. The state has repeatedly called for cooperation from Afghan authorities to curb these militants, but in the absence of tangible action, Pakistan was compelled to act. The growing influence and violent activities of TTP pose a direct challenge to both Pakistan and Afghanistan. TTP’s extremist ideology and relentless attacks do not recognize national boundaries, making it imperative for both countries to collaborate in eradicating this menace.
It is important to recognize that Pakistan’s military operations are not an expression of hostility towards Afghanistan. Rather, they serve as a measure to protect the territorial integrity of both nations. The targeted airstrikes were solely focused on terrorist hideouts, aiming to prevent further bloodshed. If left unchecked, TTP’s activities could spiral into greater instability, affecting not only Pakistan but also Afghanistan, whose people equally suffer from the spillover effects of extremism.
Pakistan has consistently sought mutual cooperation with Afghanistan in combating terrorism, but this goodwill must be reciprocated. Afghan leadership must acknowledge the TTP threat and dismantle its networks, as ignoring them endangers regional peace. Given their intertwined security, both nations must collaborate to eliminate terror sanctuaries. Pakistan remains open to dialogue, urging Afghanistan to take concrete action against TTP elements operating within its borders.
The international community also has a role to play in addressing this transnational security challenge. Global actors must recognize the legitimacy of Pakistan’s concerns and support its efforts in combating terrorism. The presence of extremist groups in border regions is not just a bilateral issue but a matter of global security. It is crucial for international stakeholders to urge the Afghan leadership to act decisively against terror groups that exploit Afghan soil for launching attacks.
Pakistan’s actions stem from the fundamental right of self-defence. No sovereign nation can tolerate repeated cross-border attacks on its citizens and military personnel. The sacrifices of Pakistani soldiers and civilians in the fight against terrorism must not be overlooked. Their martyrdom is a stark reminder of the high stakes involved in counterterrorism efforts.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
