ISLAMABAD: Senior Pakistani politicians, such as Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, express deep concern over the recent statement made by the Taliban government.
The statement implies that the Doha deal was signed with the United States rather than Pakistan. This revelation comes at a time when the country is grappling with escalating violence, adding to the worries of the Pakistani leaders.
Following Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s remarks about Afghanistan not fulfilling its obligations under the Doha deal. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid responded in an interview with BBC Pashto.
Zabihullah Mujahid stated that the Taliban did not sign the peace agreement with Islamabad.
He also emphasizes that Afghan soil was not being used for attacks in Pakistan due to their perception of Pakistan as a Muslim and brotherly nation.
Despite assurances from their benefactors regarding reining in militant groups. Pakistan observe a significant increase in terrorism across the country, which it believes is orchestrated by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). The Pakistan Army expressed serious concerns over militants finding safe havens in Afghanistan after 12 soldiers lost their lives in two attacks. The army warned of an “effective response” to such attacks.
In response to Zabihullah Mujahid’s assertion, senior politician and PPP leader Farhatullah Babar found it troubling and disturbing.
The Taliban spokesperson has stated that the Doha agreement was signed with the United States, not Pakistan, and their policy towards Pakistan differs. This raises the question of whether the Doha agreement only holds the Taliban responsible for reining in certain militants rather than all of them.
Agreeing with Farhatullah Babar’s interpretation, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that Pakistan remains committed to eradicating terrorism from its territory, regardless of Afghanistan’s stance or willingness to control militants within its borders.