The remarks by Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for Afghan Taliban, downplaying the TTP as merely an internal matter of Pakistan, are not only misleading but also contrary to ground realities. Such statements, while ostensibly aimed at maintaining a diplomatic posture, overlook undeniable fact that the TTP has found refuge and operates with impunity from within Afghan territory. This reality has been corroborated by none other than the United Nations, whose latest report identifies TTP as the largest terrorist group in Afghanistan, receiving growing support from Afghan Taliban regime to carry out cross-border attacks into Pakistan.
Zabihullah’s assertion that Afghanistan does not allow anyone to wage war from its soil is contradicted by surge in terrorist incidents in Pakistan, many of which have been traced back to TTP’s sanctuaries across the border. Pakistan has not only raised these concerns with Afghan authorities but also provided tangible evidence linking TTP to these attacks. The continued inaction or dismissal of these concerns by Afghan Taliban only serves to fuel mistrust and deteriorate prospects for peace in the region. It is, therefore, imperative for Afghan Taliban to recognise that responsibility for curbing these elements lies squarely with them. This is not just a matter of fulfilling bilateral commitments, it is crucial for overall security of Afghanistan, whose people have suffered immensely from years of conflict and lawlessness. Rather than shying away from their responsibilities, Afghan authorities must take firm and decisive action against TTP and other extremist groups operating from their soil. Failure to do so will not only jeopardise regional peace and security but will also perpetuate the cycle of violence that has devastated Afghanistan for decades. The path to lasting peace in the region requires genuine cooperation and a clear commitment to eradicate terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.
