Cross-Border Terrorism
Army Chief General Asim Munir has emphasized that the primary cause of the ongoing differences between Pakistan and Afghanistan is cross-border terrorism, particularly the presence of safe havens for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in Afghanistan.
Speaking at a meeting with leaders from various political parties in Peshawar, the army chief underlined that Pakistan’s policy is focused solely on the interests of the country, pointing out that the continuation of terrorism originating from Afghanistan remains a central issue in bilateral relations.
General Munir clarified that there were no plans for a large-scale military operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, reassuring political representatives that only intelligence-based operations (IBO) were being conducted against militant groups.
He stressed Pakistan’s longstanding desire for peaceful relations with Afghanistan, calling it a “brotherly and Islamic country.” However, he highlighted that the unresolved issue of TTP militants operating from Afghan soil continues to fuel instability in Pakistan.
The army chief also raised the moral question about the spread of terrorism, questioning whether it could be justified in the eyes of Allah. He emphasized that this situation will persist until the Taliban rulers in Afghanistan address the presence of the TTP within their borders.
General Munir further elaborated on the importance of a functioning state, asserting that without a state, there would be no political stability. He called for unity in the fight against terrorism, urging that the country must stand together without prejudice or discrimination.
The army chief acknowledged that while mistakes are part of human nature, failing to learn from those mistakes is a more significant fault.
Reaffirming the strong bond between the people and the military, General Munir dismissed the narrative of a widening rift between the army and the nation, attributing it to external forces with a specific agenda. He also praised the consensus on the National Action Plan (NAP) and called for its urgent implementation.
During his visit to Peshawar, General Munir was briefed on the security situation, where he was joined by KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and senior military officers.
He warned that any attempt to disrupt the nation’s peace would be met with decisive action, emphasizing that hostile elements would face overwhelming force.
The COAS commended the dedication and sacrifices of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies, acknowledging their key role in dismantling terrorist networks and preventing further chaos.
He expressed immense pride in their accomplishments and the significant strides made in eliminating terrorist threats, both within Pakistan’s borders and beyond.
