Pakistan has demanded concrete action from the Afghan Taliban following the deadly terrorist attack at Kohat Police Lines.
Investigators identified one of the suicide bombers as an Afghan national, according to Pakistani security sources. The bomber was identified as Mutee-Ullah. The identity of the second attacker is still being verified.
The development has intensified Islamabad’s concerns about militant networks allegedly operating from Afghan territory.
Kohat Police Lines Attack
The attack took place on Friday during prayers at a mosque inside the Old Kohat Police Lines.
An explosives-laden vehicle was used in the initial assault. Armed attackers then entered the police compound and targeted security facilities.
Police and security forces launched a prolonged clearance operation.
The operation concluded on Saturday after all eight attackers were killed, according to police.
The reported death toll later rose to 23. The victims included 17 police personnel and six civilians. More than 100 people were injured.
The Additional Inspector General of the Counter-Terrorism Department was also injured during the operation after militants reportedly used a grenade.
Pakistan Raises Afghan Soil Concerns
Pakistan’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said the identification of an Afghan national among the attackers reinforced its concerns about terrorism originating from Afghan territory.
Islamabad has repeatedly accused militant groups of using Afghanistan as a base to plan and launch attacks inside Pakistan.
Pakistani authorities have particularly raised concerns about networks they describe as Fitna al-Khawarij.
The government has conveyed these concerns to the Afghan Taliban through diplomatic channels.
Pakistan says Afghan authorities must take practical steps against militant sanctuaries, recruitment networks and training facilities.
Islamabad Calls for Concrete Action
Pakistan welcomed Afghanistan’s condemnation of the Kohat attack but said condemnation alone was insufficient.
Islamabad is demanding “credible, verifiable and sustained measures” against terrorist networks operating from Afghan territory.
The Pakistani position is that Kabul should prevent militant groups from planning, preparing and launching attacks against Pakistan.
Pakistan has also highlighted several recent border incidents as part of its broader security concerns.
Security officials previously reported attempts by militants to enter Pakistan from Afghanistan.
Pakistani forces have also conducted operations against militants attempting to cross the border in areas including North and South Waziristan and Kurram.
Afghanistan Condemns Kohat Attack
Afghanistan’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attack on the mosque and expressed sympathy with the victims and their families.
The Afghan government has rejected accusations that its territory is being used to support attacks against Pakistan.
Pakistan, however, says the latest investigation provides additional evidence requiring action from Kabul.
Tensions Between Islamabad and Kabul
Relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan have remained tense over security issues.
Islamabad has repeatedly demanded that the Afghan Taliban prevent armed groups from operating against Pakistan from Afghan territory.
Pakistan says it remains open to dialogue but will take measures necessary to protect its territory and citizens.
The identification of Mutee-Ullah as an Afghan national is now expected to become a major focus of Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement with Kabul.
