Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government, criticised Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry’s comments. Mujahid said the statements were contrary to facts and failed to meet the standards of responsible military communication.
He stated on social media platform X, “The recent statements by the Pakistan Army are not only factually incorrect but also violate the standards expected from a responsible military office.”
Mujahid further emphasised that Afghanistan is a sovereign and stable country, with a strong security framework and capable leadership. “We exercise full authority over our entire territory,” he added.
Interference in Afghanistan’s Affairs Unacceptable
Afghan authorities expressed that interference in Afghanistan’s internal matters and threatening remarks are not acceptable to the Afghan people. Mujahid urged relevant Pakistani authorities to exercise caution in their public statements, considering the sensitive nature of bilateral relations.
“We want to make it clear that interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs and threatening remarks are in no way acceptable to the Afghan people,” he said.
Context: Pakistan Army Statement
The remarks came after a press conference by DG ISPR Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry on Tuesday. He stated that Pakistan witnessed 5,400 terrorist incidents last year, with security forces eliminating 2,597 terrorists.
According to Chaudhry, terrorist groups such as Al Qaeda, Daesh, and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) used Afghanistan as a base for attacks inside Pakistan. He further claimed that Afghan nationals were involved in major terrorist incidents across Pakistan, describing Afghanistan as a hub for global terrorist activity.
Bilateral Relations and Regional Stability
The Afghan government’s response reflects growing tensions over cross-border security issues. Mujahid reiterated that threatening rhetoric and interference could undermine peaceful relations and regional stability.
He concluded by stressing that responsible communication is crucial for maintaining mutual respect and avoiding unnecessary escalations between the two nations.
Conclusion
Afghanistan’s firm response to the Pakistan Army’s remarks underscores its commitment to sovereignty and internal stability. Both countries face a delicate situation, requiring careful diplomacy and measured public statements to prevent further tensions.
