The United States has reiterated its stance that the Afghan Taliban must ensure that their country is not used as a base for launching terror attacks. This statement came as Pakistan blamed Afghanistan for harboring the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), a hardline militant group.
US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said in a press conference, “The Taliban have the responsibility to prevent the use of Afghanistan as a safe haven for launching terrorist attacks.”
Meanwhile, Chief Of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir chaired Pakistan Army’s 258th Corps Commanders Conference. He emphasized that the TTP and other similar groups in Afghanistan have sanctuaries and freedom of action. This situation has a significant impact on the security of Pakistan. The Army further noted that the TTP has gained access to advanced weaponry due to these sanctuaries in Afghanistan.
Since the TTP ended its ceasefire agreement with Islamabad in November 2022, terrorist attacks in Pakistan have increased. The Pakistani armed forces have intensified their efforts against militants in response.
The Pakistan Army conveyed its serious concern last week regarding militants finding safe havens in Afghanistan. After 12 soldiers were martyred in two attacks, they issued a warning of an “effective response.”
Pakistan has experienced a surge in terrorist attacks since the Afghan Taliban regained power in August 2021. Pakistan has called on the interim rulers in Afghanistan to take decisive action against terrorists, including the TTP, who are responsible for cross-border attacks.
According to a statistical report released by the independent think tank Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), terrorist activities in the country have increased by 79% during the first half of 2023.
Taliban’s statement raises concerns for Pakistan
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid, in an interview with BBC Pashto, responded to remarks by Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. Mujahid stated that the Taliban did not sign a peace agreement with Islamabad. This statement has raised concerns among Pakistani leaders.
