Pakistan has firmly denied claims by Afghanistan’s Taliban government that it has allowed the United States to carry out drone attacks from its soil.
Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry dismissed the accusation, calling it “completely false.” He clarified that Islamabad has not provided any support or permission to Washington for military actions in Afghanistan.
“There is no agreement between Pakistan and the United States that allows such operations,” said Lt Gen Chaudhry during a closed-door briefing with senior journalists in Rawalpindi.
The statement came as Pakistan and Afghanistan attempt to maintain a fragile ceasefire following talks in Istanbul from October 25 to 30. Both sides agreed to establish a monitoring mechanism aimed at curbing border tensions and holding violators accountable. The next round of discussions is scheduled for November 6 in Istanbul, where the joint framework’s operational details are expected to be finalized.
Counterterrorism Efforts and Cross-Border Tensions
Lt Gen Chaudhry revealed that Pakistan’s security forces had conducted several successful operations against militants crossing from Afghanistan. He confirmed that 112 foreign fighters had been killed in recent clashes, with around 60% identified as Afghan nationals.
He also mentioned that 206 Afghan army soldiers were killed during these engagements, underscoring the seriousness of cross-border militancy. The DG ISPR stressed that Pakistan’s operations were part of an ongoing counterterrorism campaign designed to protect national security and regional stability.
Narcotics and Terror Financing Links Exposed
The military spokesperson highlighted the link between the narcotics trade and terrorist financing, noting that poppy cultivation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa played a significant role in funding militant networks.
He said the Frontier Corps and Anti-Narcotics Force had destroyed extensive poppy fields in the Tirah Valley. Around 12,000 acres in Khyber were reportedly under poppy cultivation, with profits reaching up to Rs3.2 million per acre.
“Local politicians and influential groups are also involved in this cultivation,” Lt Gen Chaudhry warned, emphasizing that disrupting the narco-economy is crucial for defeating terrorism.
Taliban’s Unfulfilled Promises Under Doha Agreement
Lt Gen Chaudhry criticized the Afghan Taliban for failing to honour commitments made under the Doha Agreement. He reminded that the Taliban had pledged to hold a Loya Jirga and establish a representative government — promises yet to be fulfilled.
He said Islamabad continues to prefer peaceful negotiations with Kabul but remains prepared to consider other options if dialogue fails. “We want peace and prefer talks, but if they fail, we will explore other means,” he asserted.
Warning of India’s False-Flag Maritime Operation
Lt Gen Chaudhry also issued a warning regarding India’s potential attempt to stage a false-flag operation via the maritime route. He said such an action would aim to create a false narrative against Pakistan and justify aggressive policies.
“Pakistan remains fully alert to India’s designs and will act decisively to defend its sovereignty,” he stated.
A Message of Vigilance and Restraint
The DG ISPR reiterated that Pakistan’s defence strategy remains focused on safeguarding national interests while pursuing peace through diplomacy. He emphasized that any violation of Pakistan’s borders or sovereignty would be met with a strong and proportionate response.
Lt Gen Chaudhry’s briefing underscored Pakistan’s dual approach — firm military vigilance combined with a preference for regional peace and cooperation.
